ECONOMIC

AND SOCIAL
SURVEY
JAMAICA
2009

Hanover
St. James Trelawny
St. Ann St. Mary
Westmoreland

St. Elizabeth Portland

Clarendon St. CatherineSt. Andrew

Manchester St. Thomas

Kingston

PREPARED BY
THE
PLANNING INSTITUTE
OF JAMAICA
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1957-1972 published as: Economic Survey Jamaica

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Economic and Social Survey Jamaica
1. Jamaica - Economic conditions - 1997 - Serials
2. Social surveys - Jamaica
3. Jamaica - Statistics

I. Planning Institute of Jamaica

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ISSN 0256-5013 -Economic and social survey - Jamaica
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49
FOREWORD
T he Economic and Social Survey Jamaica (ESSJ) contin-
ues to be the Planning Institute of Jamaica’s premier pub-
lication. The ESSJ serves an important role in providing timely
information and analysis on social, economic and environmental
Official Development Assistance; Sustainable Development;
the Macro Economy; Sectoral Performance; Demographics and
the Labour Market; and Human Development, Welfare and Cul-
ture. A table with Selected Indicators is included at the front and
issues and on external cooperation management. It is used by a a glossary of economic and social terminologies and an index are
wide cross-section of Jamaicans including researchers, academ- at the back for your convenience.
ics, policy analysts, students and our international development
partners. It also provides the basis for some of the discussions The Planning Institute is pleased to continue to provide you
for the Budget Debate process and for tracking the country’s de- with important and comprehensive information on the economy
velopment progress. on a timely basis and in a reader-friendly manner. Finally, the
Institute wishes to publicly express our gratitude to all those who
ESSJ 2009 analyses the economic and social challenges have assisted in any way, in the preparation and publication of
faced by the country as it struggled to cope with the continued the Survey.
impact of the global crisis. The document also details the
achievements made in the implementation of Vision 2030 Ja-
maica – National Development Plan in the relevant chapters
contained herein. This is consistent with the commitment made
to our readers last year to provide updates on the progress being
made in achieving the vision to make “Jamaica the place of
choice to live, work, raise families, and do business.”
Pauline Knight, CD
The information contained in the publication is conveniently Acting Director General
summarized for our readers in the Overview and presented in de- Planning Institute of Jamaica
tail under the following headings: The International Economy;

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) takes pleasure in pre- Kudos must be conveyed to the Jamaica Printing Service
senting the 52nd edition of the Economic and Social Survey Ja- whose staff worked around the clock to produce the docu-
maica. In spite of the time constraints and difficulties in obtaining ment on time. Not least, we must express our sincere appre-
data, the PIOJ succeeded once again in meeting the deadline for ciation to our readers on whose valuable support and loyalty
the opening of the Annual Budget Debate in Parliament. In doing we depend.
so, the Institute would like to place on record its appreciation to all
our partners who made these achievements possible. It is with special pride that we look forward to continuing
our partnership with our stakeholders who have for over 50
Firstly, to the institutions which provided the chapter writers years kept this publication going.
with quality data in a timely manner: the Statistical Institute of Ja-
maica; the Bank of Jamaica; the Ministry of Finance and the Pub-
lic Service; the various Government Ministries, Departments and
Agencies; non-governmental organizations and the private sector.
We could not forget to acknowledge also the sterling work of the
chapter writers, the editorial team, external chapter reviewers, the
desktop publishers, the data managers, library staff, secretaries
and photocopiers. Thanks also to those individuals and firms who
supplied us with photographs and permission to reproduce them.
 I I

SELECTED INDICATORS
2004 - 2009

Unit 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

GDP at Current Market Prices $b 620.3r 695.4r 786.1r 893.1r 1 018.2 1 091.1
GDP in Basic Value at Current Prices $b 541.8r 609.2r 687.6r 781.1r 893.5r 961.9
GDP in Basic Value at Constant (2003) Prices $b 483.4r 488.4r 501.7r 509.3r 504.4r 490.8
Growth in GDP in Basic Value at Constant (2003) Prices % 1.4 1.0 2.7 1.5r -0.9r -2.7

Goods Production as % of Total Real GDP % 27.1 26.8 26.5r 26.2 25.4 23.9
Agriculture " % 5.2r 4.8r 5.4r 5.0r 4.8 5.6
Mining & Quarrying " % 4.1r 4.1r 4.1r 3.9r 3.8 2.0
Manufacture " % 9.6r 9.1r 8.6r 8.5r 8.5 8.3
Construction " % 8.3r 8.8r 8.4r 8.7r 8.2 8.0
Services " % 78.2r 78.4r 78.6r 79.1r 80.0 81.7
Basic Services " % 15.2r 15.2r 15.5r 15.7r 15.6r 15.5
Electricity & Water " % 3.3r 3.4r 3.4r 3.3r 3.4 3.6
Transport, Storage & Communication " % 11.9r 11.9r 12.1 12.3r 12.1 11.9
Total Other Services " % 63.1r 63.1r 63.1r 63.5r 64.4r 66.2
Financial Intermediation Services Indirectly Measured % 5.3r 5.2r 5.1r 5.3r 5.3 5.5

Exports as % GDP (current) % 15.8 14.9 16.6 17.9 19.2r 10.7

Imports " % 35.1 38.2 47.2 53.5 59.5 41.4

GDP per capita

Current $'000 234.6 261.4 295.3 331.9 378.8r 404.8
Constant $'000 182.8 183.8 187.9 189.7 187.7r 182.1

Consumer Price Index (CPI)(end Dec.) 84.1 94.7 100 116.8 136.5 150.4
Inflation : Dec./Dec. % 13.7 12.6 5.7 16.8 16.8 10.2
: Annual Avg 13.5 15.1 8.5 9.3 22.0 9.6
Implicit GDP Deflator, 2003 = 1.00 a 1.12r 1.25r 1.37r 1.53r 1.77 1.96
Changes in Implicit Deflator % 12.0 11.3 9.9 11.9 15.5 10.6

Avg. Wtd. Comm. Bank Loan Rate % 17.7 17.3 17.6 17.11 16.78 16.19
Avg. Wtd. Comm. Bank Deposit Rate % 6.0 5.4 5.02 4.92 5.16 4.59
Avg. Treasury Bill Yield (6 Mths Instr.) % 14.9 13.4 12.31 13.34 24.45 16.80

Ja. Stock Exchange Index (end Dec.) Points 112 655.5 104 510.8 100 677.9 107 968.0 80 152.0 83 322
Stock Market Capitalisation $b 879.3 839.5 822.9 876.7 597.3 544.9
M1 $b 67.8 72.7 86.9 105.6 100.1 99.2
% Change % 22.7 7.2 19.5 21.5 -5.2 -0.9
M2 $b 211.4 228.3 257 300.2r 313.1 323.4
% Change % 15.2 8.0 12.3 17.1 4.3 3.3

Total Revenue b c $b 172.8 186.7 211.4 252 276.2 229.3

Recurrent Revenue $b 167.1 178.2 208.1 247.3 274.3 228.2

Total Expenditure $b 199.5 207.7 248 294.3 351.5 334.0

Recurrent Expenditure $b 188.4 192.3 224.5 252.9 310.1 308.9
Capital Expenditure $b 11.1 15.5 23.5 41.4 41.4 25.1
Debt Servicing $b 222.5 228.3 219.9 207.8 272.0 276.7
Surplus/Deficit $b -26.7 -21.0 -35.1 -42.2 -75.3 -104.7

Total Revenue as a % of GDP % 33.9 32.4 33.0 27.3 26.6 n/a

Recurrent Revenue " % 32.8 30.9 32.5 26.8 26.4 n/a
 II II

Unit 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Recurrent Expenditure " % 32.7 33.3 35.0 27.4 29.9 n/a
Total Expenditure (excluding Amortisation) " % 39.2 36.0 38.7 31.9 33.9 n/a
Surplus/Deficit " % -5.2 -3.6 -5.5 -4.6 -7.3 n/a
Debt Servicing " % 43.7 39.6 34.3 22.5 26.2 n/a

EXTERNAL TRADE
Total Imports (c.i.f.) US$ m 3 546.1 4 739.4 5 650.4 6 893.9 8 361.0 5 065.7
Annual Growth In Total Imports % 6.8 20.7 19.2 11.8 24.0 -39.4
Consumer Goods US$ m 1 171.7 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Raw Material US$ m 2 164.1 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Capital goods US$ m 597.7 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Total Exports (f.o.b.) US$ m 1 601.6 1 531.5 1 983.5 2 305.2 2 682.9 1 320.2
Annual Growth In Total Exports % 18.0 9.0 29.5 7.6 17.3 -50.8
Traditional Exports US$ m 1081.9 1160.1 1 337.7 1 500.4r 1 529.9 616.3
Bauxite US$ m 80.4 98.8 113.3 112.9r 114.5 85.4
Alumina US$ m 814.6 920.3 1 040.6 1 193.1r 1 230.5 368
Sugar US$ m 98.1 76.8 89.7 100.3 104.3 72.3
Banana US$ m 12.8 4.7 13.4 9.2 0.04 0.006
Non Traditional Exports US$ m 283.3 341.6 610.1 753.8r 1 090.7 626.9
Wearing Apparel US$ m 10.4 9.4 4 1.6r 1.5 1.46
Trade Balance US$ m -2 522.7 -3 207.9 -3 666.9 -4 588.7 -5 679.0 -3 745.5

BALANCE OF PAYMENTS
Current Account Balance US$ m -501.9 -1071.5 -1 182.9 2 038.2 -2 793.3 -912.4
Goods Balance US$ m -1 943.5 -2 581.3 -2 943.4 -3841.3 -4 802.9 -3 123.4
Total Imports US$ m 3 546.1 4 245.6 5 077.0 6 203.9 2 743.9 1 386.1
Total Exports US$ m 1 601.6 1 664.3 2 133.6 2 362.6 7 546.8 4 509.5
Services (Net) US$ m 578.2 607.3 627.6 424.8 428.1 751.9
Balance on Goods And Services US$ m 1 379.0 1 917.1 -2 142.8 -3 416.5 -4 374.8 -2 371.6
Income (Net) US$ m -582.7 -675.9 -615.7 -661.6 -568.3 -586.3
Current Transfers (Net) US$ m 1 446.1 1 578.4 1 748.6 2 039.9 2 149.8 2 045.5
Capital & Financial Account Balance US$ m 512.9 1 071.5 1 182.9 2 038.2 2 793.3 912.4
Reserves (Minus=Increase) US$ m -693.6 -228.9 -230.1 439.8 104.8 43.6

Private Remittance Inflows US$ m 1 465.8 1 651 1 769.4 1 964.4 2021 1 795.4

Net International Reserves US$ m 1 872.5 2 087.4 2 317.6 1 877.7 1 772.9 1 729.4

Net Foreign Assets $b 157.2 179.4 200.1 182.0r 159.1 190.8

Nominal Exchange Rate ($ per US$1.00) Average Annual $ 61.39 62.6 65.98 69.06 72.92 88.49

Total Visitor Arrivals Million 2.5 2.6 3.0 2.9 2.9 2.7
Stop-over Visitors Million 1.4 1.5 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.8
Cruise Passengers Million 1.1 1.1 1.3 1.2 1.1 0.9
Occupancy Rates r % 61.4 61.9 62.8 63.2 60.4 n/a
Foreign Exchange Earnings US$m 1 436.6 1 545.1 1 870.6 1 910.0 1 975.5 1 939.7

Energy
Petroleum Imports d mb 23.4 25.3r 27.1r 26.5 26.6 19.6
Electricity Generated GWh 3 717.0 3878.0 4046.4 4075.5 4123.3 4214

Population '000 persons 2 644.1 2 656.7 2 669.5 2 682.1p 2 692.4p 2 698.8p

Growth Rate % 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.2
Crude Birth Rate per 1000 17.9 17.8 17.4 17.0 16.7 16.3
pop.
Crude Death Rate per 1000 6.4 6.6 6.1 6.4 6.3 6.5
pop.
Natural Increase % 11.5 11.2 11.3 10.6 10.4 9.8
Total Fertility Rate % 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.45 2.38p 2.4
Net External Movement '000 persons -18.2 -17.2r -17.1r -16.0 -17.6r -20.0
 III III

Unit 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Labour Force '000 1 194.8 1 223.1r 1 253.1 1 276.9r 1 299.6r 1 270.5
Male '000 663.5 681.5r 695.6 706.8r 713.2r 698.5
Female '000 531.3 541.6r 557.5 570.1r 586.4r 572.0
Labour Force Participation Rate % 64.3 64.2r 64.7 64.9r 65.5r 63.6
Male % 73.3 73.3r 73.5 73.5r 73.9r 71.8
Female % 55.8 55.5r 56.3 56.6r 57.5 55.7

Total Employment '000 1 055.2 1 085.8r 1 123.7 1 152.6r 1 162.2r 1 126.1

Male '000 610.9 629.6r 646.8 664.1r 661.1r 639.0
Female '000 444.3 456.2r 476.9 488.5r 501.1r 487.1
Total Unemployment Rate % 11.7 11.2r 10.3 9.8r 10.6 11.4
Male % 7.9 7.6 7.0 6.1r 7.3 8.6
Female % 16.4 15.8 14.5 14.3r 14.6 14.8
Average Weekly Earnings of All Employees(1990 $) e $ 9 729 10 388 11 498r 12 691 14 588r 16 083

Education
Enrolment in : ('000)
Primary Institutions " 331.3 326.4 318.7 310 315.1 307.8
Secondary Institutions " 236.9 237.2 236.4 247.3 250.8 266.9
Tertiary Institutions % 24.3 21.9 26.0 31.4 23.8 29.5
University f " 23.9 24.6 31.5 34.5 32.3 34.5
Literacy Rateg " 79.9 79.9 85.5r 86 86.4 86.8

Training
Total output of Technical, Managerial & Related Man- ('000 ) 12.6 12.9 14.8 15.4 14.0 14.2
power
Total output of Skilled and Semi- skilled Manpowerh " 34.2 41.8 55.6 49.9 53.8 60.6

Health
Infant Mortality Rate per '000 live 19.2 19.2 19.2 16.7 16.7 16.7
births
Percentage Beds Occupancy % 73.3 54.6 56.6 60.9 72.3 67.5
Immunization (National Average): % n/a
- DPT, OPV, BCG (0 - 11 months) % 77.6 88.5 87 85.7 n/a 90.9
- MMR (12 -23 months) % 80.4 84 87.2 76.2 n/a 88.1
Access to Safe Water % 79.5 n/a 77.3 90.7 n/a n/a
Sanitary Facility % 100 n/a 100 98.9 n/a n/a
Life Expectancy (at birth) yrs 74.13 74.13 74.13 74.13 74.13 74.13
Maternal Mortality per 100 000 94.8 94.8 94.8 94.8 94.8 94.8

National Security
Overall Crime Rate per 100 000 1 351 1 232 1 074 1 244 n/a n/a
Major Crime Rate " 246 311 267 271 373 437
Murder Rate " 55 63 50 59 60 62

Environmental
Rate of deforestation (%) % 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
Energy Consumption per capita (BOE) 9.2 10.56 11.2 10.3p 9.8p 7.5
Alternative Energy ('000) (BOE) 1 980r 1594 927p 899p 362p 439
Per capita domestic water consumption Megalitres 0.036 0.036 0.036 0.035p 0.034p 0.034p
Annual Rainfall (mm) mm 1816 2412 2135p 2108 1728 1473
Avg. Annual Temperature Celsius 28.4 n/a 27.4p 28.9 25.6p 26.3p
% population in urban areas 52.0 52.0 52.0 52.0 52.0 52
Per Capita Waste generation (kg/year) n/a n/a 1.5 0.9 0.8 0.89i

Science, Technology & Innovation

Fixed line penetration (%) 16.99 11.99 12.82 13.78 11.8 11.2p
Mobile Penetration (%) 69.32 74.47 85.1 100.3 101.2 107.8p
Broadband Penetration (%) n/a 1.28 2.56 3.46 3.63 4.2
EIU E-readiness ranking 41 of 65j 43 of 68 46 of 69 49 of 70 44 of 70
Resident patent filings 10 10 21 6 15 16
IV IV

Notes :
a -The Implicit Deflator, an index of average prices, is calculated as the ratio of GDP at current prices to GDP at contant prices.
b - Revenue and Expenditure Figures are for the fiscal years 2003/04 - 2007/08
c - Fiscal Data for 2008 represent April 2008 - January 2009.
d - Excluding marketing companies
e - From Survey of Employment, Earnings and Hours Worked in Large Establishments, Statistical Institute of Jamaica.
f - Enrolment data for University include the Northern Caribbean University; Data for 2005 - 2009 include University College of the Caribbean and Northern
Caribbean University
g - Figure for 2006 is UNESCO estimate for 2004; previous years were based on Jamaica Literacy Survey 1999
h - Partial data received in 2007
i - Data from the two largest wastesheds for December 2009 are not included
j - Total number of countries in ranking
mb - million barrels
p - provisional
n/a - not available
r - revised
BOE- Barrel of Oil Equivalent
Table of Contents
OVERVIEW

THE INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1

OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Sustainable Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
Science, Technology and Innovation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.1

THE MACRO ECONOMY

Gross Domestic Product . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1
Balance of Payments and External Trade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.1
Money and Inflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.1
Fiscal Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.1
Finance & Insurance Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.1

SECTORAL PERFORMANCE
Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.1
Mining and Quarrying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.1
Manufacture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.1
Micro and Small Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.1
Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.1
Energy, Electricity and Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.1
Transport, Storage and Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16.1
Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.1
Entertainment and Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.1
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation of Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19.1

DEMOGRAPHICS AND THE LABOUR MARKET

Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.1
The Labour Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.1

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, WELFARE AND CULTURE

Education and Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22.1
Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23.1
National Security and Justice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24.1
Social Development, Social Protection and Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25.1

LIST OF TABLES
LIST OF FIGURES
ACRONYMS
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
INDEX
 VI
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
D uring 2009, Jamaica was adversely impacted by the global
financial and economic crisis. The economy contracted
throughout the year. Business activity reflected uncertainty about
the form of the global economic recovery. Consumption remained
dampened in relation to uncertainty about job prospects as well as
declines in alternative income sources such as remittances. These
contractions were reflected in increased unemployment levels, in-
flation rates, and numbers of property crimes.
The country’s first long-term strategic plan, Vision 2030
Jamaica - National Development Plan (Vision 2030 Jamaica);
and the Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy Framework
(MTF) 2009-2012 were tabled in Parliament during the
2009/2010 Budget Debate. The MTF identifies the intermediate
steps towards the realization of Vision 2030 Jamaica. A number
of important steps were taken to establish an effective monitoring
and evaluation system and to sustain an effective communication
programme for the Plan. These included: (a) strategic
consultations with Ministries, Departments and Agencies; (b)
Rationalization of existing monitoring and evaluation processes;
(c) capacity strengthening in Results Based Management (RBM);
and (d) publicity and advocacy for Vision 2030 Jamaica. .
The global economy registered the first decline in over five
decades. Despite this, global economic activities were estimated
to have grown during the second half of the year due largely to the
implementation of effective monetary and fiscal policies. During
the year, the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between
the European Commission (EC) and Caribbean Forum
(CARIFORUM) was applied provisionally, as work continued
towards finalizing the agreement. The Caribbean Community
(CARICOM) was also involved in preparatory work and the first
round of negotiations for the establishment of a
CARICOM-Canada Free Trade Agreement in 2011. The
World Trade Organization (WTO) granted approval for a waiver
for the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA)
which gives specific exports non-reciprocal duty free access to the
United States until 2014.
Official Development Assistance (ODA) was important in
minimizing the effects of the global financial crisis on Jamaica and
ensuring acceptable levels of social expenditure. These funds
were channelled to the Directly Productive and Economic
Infrastructure sectors, and were largely due to loans from the
Multilateral Financial Institutions (MFIs) and the People’s
Republic of China.
Jamaica continued to implement Sustainable Development
programmes with the issue of climate change taking prominence
during the year. The country was spared the onslaught of
hurricanes and storms, but was negatively impacted by drought
and fire. The country continued to implement energy
conservation and efficiency methods the impact of which was
VI
reflected in a decline in per capita consumption of energy. In
addition, there was a move towards a more sustainable
energy mix evidenced by greater focus on alternative energy.
The national drive towards becoming a technology
enabled society and one which uses Science, Technology
and Innovation as a catalyst for sustainable development
was accelerated. This was reflected in the ongoing
expansion of the Information and Communications
Technology infrastructure and improvements in indices that
measure readiness and connectivity.
The Jamaican economy operated in a challenging
global and macroeconomic environment. The economy
recorded a contraction in real Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) of 2.7 per cent in 2009. The Goods-Producing and
Services Industries contracted by 8.5 per cent and 0.6 per
cent, respectively. The sectors recording growth were
Agriculture, 12.1 per cent; Electricity and Water Supply, 2.2
per cent; Finance and Insurance, 0.8 per cent; and Hotels &
Restaurants, 1.4 per cent.
The fiscal deficit amounted to $96.3 billion, $18.1
billion more than budgeted and was due to a shortfall in
Revenue and Grants. The fiscal constraints associated with
the economic downturn led to the implementation of a public
sector wage freeze. The Government further established the
Public Sector Transformation Unit to oversee the
rationalization of the public sector.
The rate of inflation for 2009 was 10.2 per cent,
reflecting interventions in the foreign exchange market and
administrative price adjustments associated with the
revenue enhancement measures. The average foreign
exchange rate for the year was $88.49 to US$1,
representing a nominal depreciation of 21.4 per cent.
The population grew by 0.2 per cent and was estimated
at 2 698 800 at the end of 2009. Jamaica continues to
experience the effects of an ageing population structure,
with a declining 0–14 age group; and an increasing working
age (15–64) and dependent elderly age group (65 and older
age group). Age Dependency Ratios are therefore declining
and will continue in this trend up to 2020.
The negative effects of the economic downturn were
reflected in the labour market. The average unemployment
rate was 11.4 per cent, an increase of 0.8 percentage point.
Employment declines were reported in both the Services and
the Goods Producing Industries. Both the male and female
unemployment rates increased, to 8.6 per cent and 14.8 per
cent, respectively. The Minimum Wage was increased by
10.0 per cent in May to reflect movements in the cost of
living. Industrial disputes declined by 20.6 per cent during
the year.
 VII
The major focus in education and training was on promoting
access and quality. Emphasis was also placed on school
attendance, behaviour management, and the implementation of
accountability mechanisms within the sector. Measures were
instituted at all levels of the Education system to improve the
quality of teaching and to promote accountability and a culture of
excellence. A Competency Based Transition Approach for
students progressing from primary to the secondary level was
introduced to certify their literacy and numeracy level.
The Government continued its initiative to improve access to
public health facilities. There was also ongoing work intended to
strengthen the monitoring role of the Ministry of Health through
the Regional Health Authorities. Focus continued to be placed on
mental health with the completion and integration of the Mental
Health Strategic Plan in the regional work plans.
The Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Justice
followed-up on implementation of the critical strategies and
actions of Vision 2030 Jamaica. This included: follow-up on the
Jamaica Constabulary Force Strategic Review; preparation of
an Anti-Corruption Plan; and the finalization of the
Community Based Policing Training Manual. In addition,
several pieces of legislation were enacted or amended during the
year.
Social development remained a critical part of the
Government’s agenda and several projects and programmes were
expanded or introduced throughout the year. Efforts were made to
increase the number of clients on PATH. The Steps –to – Work
programme, the Food Price Crisis project and the
GOJ/UNICEF Programme of Cooperation were some of the
programmes that were implemented during the year and were
supported by the Government with the aid of overseas financing.
VISION 2030 JAMAICA – NATIONAL
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The country’s first long-term strategic plan, Vision 2030
Jamaica - National Development Plan and the Medium Term
Socio-Economic Policy Framework (MTF) 2009-2012 were
tabled in Parliament on May 5, 2009 by Prime Minister
Honourable Bruce Golding during his contribution to the
2009/2010 Budget Debate. The development of these strategic
documents was preceded by two and a half years of planning,
consultations and preparation led by the Planning Institute of
Jamaica (PIOJ) and included broad based participation from all
sectors of society – government, private sector, community based
organizations, academia, individual citizens of Jamaica and the
international development community.
Vision 2030 Jamaica – National Development Plan provides a
comprehensive framework in which the economic, social,
environmental and governance aspects of national development
are integrated. The Plan is expected to put Jamaica in a position to
achieve developed country status by 2030 and is based on the
vision: “Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families,
and do business”. The first MTF which covers the period 2009 –
2012 outlines realistic, specific high priority national outcomes
and targets which will move us towards the longer-term goals
contained in the Plan. Additionally, the 29 sector plans developed
during the planning process, provide opportunities for linkages to
existing national and sectoral level planning, budgeting,
prioritising and monitoring mechanisms and processes.
A distinguishing feature of Vision 2030 Jamaica is its focus on
implementation and accountability. Past planning exercises were
affected by several negative factors including an inadequate
VII
monitoring and evaluation framework and weak synergies
between targets, indicators and the budget. Vision 2030
Jamaica is anchored on a results-based management
platform which sets targets and identifies performance
indicators at the national and sectoral levels. These
indicators will help to measure the effects of the strategies
and actions being implemented in the medium and the
long-term.
Since the tabling of the Vision 2030 Jamaica and the
MTF in Parliament, the GOJ, through the PIOJ has
embarked on a process to establish a robust performance
monitoring and evaluation system and to sustain an effective
communication programme for the Plan.
Strategic Consultations with MDAs
In keeping with Cabinet Decision 20/09 which directed
all MDAs to align their corporate and operational plans with
Vision 2030 Jamaica and the MTF; the PIOJ in its capacity
as the National Focal Point for Vision 2030 Jamaica is
collaborating with MDAs to develop the various
components needed to ensure an effective monitoring and
evaluation framework for implementation of the Plan. These
consultations have resulted in:
— the alignment of the National Energy Policy, Na-
tional Export Strategy and corporate plans of the
ministries of Agriculture and Land, Water and
Housing, Industry, Investment and Commerce
and National Environmental Planning Agency
with Vision 2030 Jamaica and MTF;
— the revision and finalisation of performance indi-
cators and targets for key MDAs including the
ministries of National Security, Justice, Health
and the Environment and Labour and Social
Security;
— assessment of the capacity to provide information
and data/statistics for monitoring of implementa-
tion progress and tracking of indicators;
— agreement on coordination and reporting require-
ments; and
— commitment by MDAs to participate in or lead
Thematic Working Groups (TWG)
Establishment of Thematic Working Groups
(TWGs)
In December 2009, the inaugural meetings for two
TWGs - National Security and Justice and Education and
Training - were held. Thematic Working Groups (TWGs),
with membership drawn from the public and private sectors,
civil society and international development partners are
being established as part of the monitoring and evaluation
framework for Vision 2030 Jamaica. These TWGs provide a
dynamic framework in which to plan, implement, monitor
and evaluate strategic priorities and activities; track
indicator progress; identify and mobilize resources for the
sector or thematic area; promote new policies and projects;
share information, knowledge and expertise; and ensure
concerted and coordinated technical support towards
national development. It is expected that 18 TWGs will be
established and that each will meet at least once per quarter.
 VIII
Rationalization of Processes
The Vision 2030 Jamaica monitoring and evaluation
framework is building on existing systems and processes within
the public sector. As such, several high level meetings and
consultations took place with the Office of the Cabinet, Ministry
of Finance and the Public Service, and the Office of the Prime
Minister to discuss effective and coherent approaches to integrate
other GOJ processes and mechanisms including the proposed
Whole of Government Business Plan, the Medium Term
Expenditure Framework, the Project Prioritization Mechanism,
the National Planning and Summit and Partnership for
Transformation Initiatives. The outcome of these discussions will
be a harmonized framework for monitoring and evaluation and
reporting at all levels within government which is consistent with
the spirit and principles of the current public sector transformation
efforts and the Government’s commitment to RBM as articulated
in the Medium Term Action Plan (MTAP).
Capacity Strengthening
Fifty-eight civil servants completed training in RBM,
following two one-week training workshops hosted by the PIOJ in
December 2009 through funding from the Commonwealth
Secretariat and the Canadian International Development Agency
(CIDA). The training provided guidance to key MDAs and the
PIOJ in understanding and applying results-based management
principles, tools and techniques towards implementation,
monitoring and evaluation of the National Development Plan and
other strategic planning frameworks.
Publicity and Advocacy
A draft Popular Version of Vision 2030 Jamaica has been
prepared and is being reviewed. The preparation of this document
is a critical element of the communication strategy for the Plan.
The document is a simplified, reader friendly, 80 page version of
the Plan targeted to schools, community based organizations,
youth groups and the “man in the street”.
Other activities completed during the period to support the
communication programme for Vision 2030 Jamaica included:
— the distribution of 960 copies of the Plan, 904 copies of
MTF 2009-2012, 593 CDs containing the Plan and
MTF, and Sector Plans to Ministries, Departments and
Agencies, private sector entities, schools, libraries and
civil society groups by end of December;
— the development and publishing of the Vision 2030 Ja-
maica website in August 2009. This can be viewed at
www.vision2030.gov.jm;
— the forging of an agreement with the Jamaica Informa-
tion Service (JIS) and the Public Broadcasting Com-
mission of Jamaica (PBCJ) to improve the visibility of
the Plan in the media. Ongoing discussions have been
held with various media houses on the Plan; and
— special presentations and consultations conducted
island wide to sensitise a wider cross-section of the
population about the Plan.
VIII
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY
The global economy is estimated to have contracted by
0.8 per cent in 2009, the first decline on record in over five
decades and is estimated to have been the worst economic
performance since World War II. This contraction was
attributed to the global economic recession which resulted in
a stalling of the global financial system; decline in aggregate
demand, commodity prices and trade; and increased
unemployment. The decline in global economic activities
was attributed to the performance of Advanced Countries,
as Emerging Markets & Developing Countries recorded
growth. Despite the overall decline in economic output for
calendar year 2009, global economic activities were
estimated to have grown during the second half of the year
due largely to the implementation of effective monetary and
fiscal policies.
All major economic indicators were adversely affected
by the recession. There was a decline in investor confidence
which resulted in a reversal of the growth trend in Foreign
Direct Investment. However, Net Official Flows to
Emerging Markets & Developing Countries were positive
for the first time in over a decade, reflecting increased
reliance on funding from the IMF and other multilateral
sources. The lower consumer and investor confidence
resulted in weakened demand and a decline in global trade
and commodity prices. In response to the downturn in
economic activities, the unemployment rate increased in all
regions.
During the year, the EPA between the EC and
CARIFORUM was applied, provisionally. This agreement
allows for WTO compatible, duty free access for exports
from CARIFORUM member states to the European market.
Work towards finalizing this Agreement focused on
satisfying requirements for the notification procedure to the
WTO and preparation for the establishment of the
institutional arrangements necessary to fully enact the
Agreement. CARICOM was involved in preparatory work
and the first round of negotiations for the establishment of a
CARICOM-Canada Free Trade Agreement. It is
expected that this agreement should be completed by 2011.
The WTO granted approval for a waiver for the Caribbean
Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) which provides
non-reciprocal duty free access to the United States market
for specified exports under the Caribbean Basin Initiative.
This waiver will expire in 2014. Despite the collapse of the
Doha Development Round of negotiations in 2008, and
there being no further progress in 2009, WTO members
reaffirmed their commitment to continue working for its
successful completion.
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE (ODA)
ODA provided through loans, grants and technical
assistance from the IDPs was important in minimizing the
effects of the global financial crisis and ensuring acceptable
levels of social expenditure. New ODA totalled US$1.2
billion ($106.2 billion) while disbursements were US$495.4
million ($43.8 billion), an increase of 86.2 per cent and 38.2
per cent, respectively, compared with 2008. The increase in
new ODA was primarily in the Directly Productive and
Economic Infrastructure sectors, and was largely due to
loans from the MFIs and the People’s Republic of China.
 IX
Notwithstanding the increased ODA resources, the approved
level of funding was lower than anticipated, due mainly to
protracted negotiations for a Standby Agreement (SBA) with the
International Monetary Fund (IMF). Several MFIs awaited the
outcome of the IMF Agreement before committing new resources
for quick disbursing policy based loans in the latter part of the
year.
Of the total disbursed, the MFIs accounted for the largest share
of disbursements, representing an increase from US$265.1
million ($23.5 billion) to US$433.9 million ($38.4 billion). The
Bilateral partners disbursed US$47.8 million ($4.2 billion) while
Multilateral Technical Institutions (MTIs) disbursed US13.7
million ($1.2 billion).
New ODA targeting the Directly Productive sector was
US$442.1 million ($39.1 billion) and Economic Infrastructure,
US$408.0 million ($36.1 billion). Development Assistance for
the Administrative sector was US$228.5 million ($20.2 billion)
and that for Social Infrastructure was US$99.3 million ($8.8
billion).
The net flow of resources amounted to a positive US$137.9
million ($12.2 billion) an improvement of US$155.3 million
($13.7 billion) compared with 2008. This resulted from an
increase in combined disbursements from the multilateral lending
agencies of US$332.0 million ($29.4 billion). While the
repayment of principal, interest and other charges also increased
by US$4.1 million, the levels of disbursements were higher than
the amounts repaid.
SUS TAIN ABLE DE VEL OP MENT &
SCI ENCE, TECH NOL OGY AND
IN NO VATION
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (SD)
Jamaica began to implement SD programmes within the
context of Vision 2030 Jamaica with the issue of climate change
taking prominence during the year. Activities at the global level
culminated with the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties
(COP-15) of the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC) which was held in December 2009 to
facilitate international agreement on actions to combat the impacts
of climate change. Locally, a draft Second National
Communication to the UNFCCC was prepared, which
highlighted climate change issues related to various sectors
including energy and its greenhouse gas emissions; agriculture;
health and coastal resources; and human settlement.
Adaptation of the International Building Code for Jamaica was
finalized and Application Documents published in an attempt to
improve construction standards to ensure the safety of buildings
and structures. Other important developments included: a review
of the development approval process, agreement on the
establishment of a Development Assistance Centre, and the start
of preparatory work for the formulation of a National Spatial
Plan as the strategic spatial framework to guide investment
decision making.
Activities to protect the island’s rich biodiversity continued
with work on the Protected Areas Systems Master Plan; mangrove
rehabilitation in degraded areas; water and air quality checks; and
the monitoring of coral reefs and beach erosion. Forestry
management was enhanced with the establishment of the Dolphin
Head Local Forest Management Committees.
IX
The country was spared the onslaught of hurricanes and
storms, but it was negatively impacted by drought and fire
hazards. There were 14 425 genuine fires calls reported
across the island with a high percentage being bush fires.
Drought conditions which negatively affected domestic
water supply across the island were particularly acute in the
Kingston Metropolitan Area. Several capacity building
initiatives were conducted in support of hazard risk
resilience.
The focus on Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
was largely on making information more readily available to
end-users. This was evident in the increased use of Web
Geographic Information Systems (Web GIS) to manage and
distribute geographic knowledge; and the integration of
geographic science with design to support sustainable
development. There was a general improvement in
indicators related to capacity accessibility and availability of
geospatial data. The respondents had effectively integrated
GIS into their operations or business processes such as data
conversion and collection, mapping, land resource
assessment, disaster mitigation and management.
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION
(STI)
The drive towards Jamaica becoming a technology
enabled society which uses STI as a catalyst for sustainable
development was accelerated. This was reflected in the
ongoing expansion of the ICT infrastructure which
facilitated improvements in the country’s performance on
the E-readiness and Network Readiness Index rankings. The
use of E-services across industries also expanded,
facilitating business efficiency through greater connectivity.
This was evident in the growth of Automated Banking
Machines and the roll out of Third Generation wireless
technology across the local telecommunications market. In
addition, tele-density increased with the bulk of the increase
being attributed to growth in the mobile penetration rate.
There were improvements in E-Government with the
provision of new online services by a number of public
sector agencies and the establishment of two additional
Community Access Points.
Efforts to create an enabling environment for
diversification of the energy base and improved Energy
Conservation and Efficiency advanced with the tabling of
the National Energy Policy 2009-2030 in Parliament as a
Ministry Paper. Other initiatives included: expansion of
Renewable Energy Technologies, enhanced energy
efficiency in the public sector; and the full roll-out of
Ethanol-10 blends of 87 and 90 octane gasolines.
The trend towards energy conservation and efficiency
was shown by a decline in per capita energy consumption
while there was a move towards a more sustainable energy
mix evidenced by greater focus on alternative energy. A
number of renewable energy projects (wind and hydro) were
also initiated in the energy sector including the expansion of
Wigton Wind Farm in Manchester and resuscitation of the
hydro electric plant at Constant Spring, St. Andrew. Other
positive developments included the provision of resources
to expand the use of solar technology.
Other actions to develop and use STI to achieve
development goals included:
— greater exposure of Jamaican students to STI re-
lated disciplines;
 X X
— research and development in crop production and pest
management;
— analyses of geological and biological matter to deter-
mine level of heavy metals;
— introduction of new standards to effect more energy ef-
ficient buildings; and
— increased use of technology in agriculture.
Despite the level of activity within the STI arena, resident
patent filings remained comparatively low, which is partly
reflective of the consistently low Gross Expenditure on Research
and Development.
THE ECONOMY
MACROECONOMIC POLICIES AND
PERFORMANCE
In framing the 2009 macroeconomic programme, it was noted
that the economic downturn being experienced by Jamaica
reflected, in part, the structural weaknesses in the economy such as
a high debt burden and an inefficient tax system. In response,
attention during the year was focused on:
— managing public sector balances and debt;
— improving central government financial management
and budget processes;
— fiscal responsibility;
— rationalizing public bodies;
— increasing competitiveness;
— tax policy and administrative reform;
— expenditure rationalization ; and
— public procurement procedures
Macroeconomic Performance
The Jamaican economy was estimated to have contracted by
2.7 per cent during 2009, the second consecutive annual
downturn. The Goods-Producing Industry declined by 8.5 per
cent reflecting lower output levels for all the sub-industries,
except Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries and the continued lower
external and domestic demand as a result of the global economic
and financial crisis.
The Services Industry declined by 0.6 per cent reflecting
mainly declines in the Transport, Storage & Communication and
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation of Machinery.
Monetary policy operated within the context of the continued
adverse impact of the global financial and economic crisis
particularly on Jamaica’s ability to access credit markets, and the
decline in global and domestic demand for Jamaica’s products.
This resulted in a decline in foreign exchange inflows, weakened
consumer and business confidence and a reduction in GDP.
Monetary policy initially focused on: (i) preserving stability in
the domestic financial system; and (ii) reducing the level of
instability in the foreign exchange market. During the first quarter
of 2009, the Bank of Jamaica further tightened its monetary stance
(adopted in the latter half of 2008), by increasing the domestic
cash reserve ratio by 3.0 percentage points to 14.0 per cent. This
was complemented by net sales of foreign currency to the market
and moral suasion.
For the remaining three quarters, there was: (a) stability
in the foreign exchange market; (b) a reduction in inflation
expectations; (c) improvement in the Current Account; and
(d) an increase in the Net International Reserves. In
response, the BOJ relaxed its monetary stance through
reducing the rates payable on all Open Market Operations
Instruments. Point to point inflation was 10.2 per cent as
inflationary impulses emanated mainly from administrative
price adjustments and the gradual upward movement in
international commodity prices. Domestic price increases
were constrained by the decline in domestic demand coming
from the economic downturn and the excess supply of some
domestically produced agricultural items.
The Central Government Operations for April –
December 2009 yielded a fiscal deficit of $96.3 billion
which was $18.1 billion or 23.1 per cent higher than
programmed. This resulted from lower than programmed
Revenue & Grants of $23.4 billion, which outweighed the
effect of the $5.4 billion lower than programmed
Expenditure.
The shortfall in Revenue & Grants was attributed to the
greater than anticipated downturn in economic activities due
to the impact of the global financial crisis. In light of the
revenue shortfalls, a Supplementary Budget was tabled in
September which reflected additional tax measures and
curtailed expenditure, including the implementation of a
public sector wage freeze. The Public Sector Transformation
Unit was also established to oversee the transformation of
the public sector.
Despite efforts at expenditure curtailment and revenue
enhancement, the deterioration in the underlying economy
occurred at a faster than anticipated rate and resulted in a
higher than projected deficit. In addition, the reduction in
external demand for Jamaican goods and services and the
reduced earnings of Jamaicans living abroad resulted in
significant declines in foreign exchange flows attributed to
bauxite/alumina and tourism earnings and remittances.
These events threatened the buoyancy of the balance of
payments and the stability of the fiscal accounts. In order to
bolster the Balance of Payments, negotiations were initiated
with the IMF to facilitate access to a US$1.3 billion Standby
Agreement. The completion of this agreement would also
facilitate a flow of funds from the multilateral financial
institutions of an additional US$1.2 billion, which would be
used for budget support and for project and policy based
loans. Prior to the formal negotiations scheduled for early
2010, three Prior Actions have to be completed: (a) a tax
package yielding 2.0 per cent of GDP; (b) a debt exchange
yielding 2.0 per cent of GDP; and, (c) a decision on the
divestment of Air Jamaica. The tax package was announced
in December 2009 parts of which will become effective on
January 1, 2010. The Debt Exchange and discussions for the
divestment of Air Jamaica are to be completed in 2010.
SECTORAL PERFORMANCE
The economic sectors operated in the context of a
challenging domestic and external environment. The focus
during the year remained on instituting and implementing
policies and programmes to improve the efficiency and
competitiveness of Jamaican economic activity. These were
intended to facilitate the development of internationally
competitive industry structures within and across the sectors
 XI
and are consistent with the strategic framework outlined in Vision
2030 Jamaica.
GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRIES
Agriculture
Real value added for Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing grew by
12.1 per cent in 2009 and contributed 5.6 per cent to overall GDP.
The improvement in this industry was attributed to: (a) the
Production and Productivity Programme introduced by the
Ministry of Agriculture to boost output by improving the
technology of farmers; (b) the development of programmes which
offered increased support to farmers in the areas of marketing,
irrigation and extension services; and (c) new entrants to the
industry. The Statistical Institute of Jamaica reported that, on
average, there were 10 500 more persons employed in the industry
in 2009 relative to 2008.
Policy development relating to the Agriculture, Forestry and
Fishing industry in 2009 included:
— signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with
the European Commission and the Food and Agricul-
ture Organization strengthen Jamaica’s Food Security
initiatives;
— completing the Jamaica Agriculture sub-industry
strategy for Fruits and Vegetables; Roots and Tu-
bers; and Vegetables which is geared at diversifying
agriculture production; and
— developing a new policy framework for the sugar, ba-
nana, cocoa and coffee sub-industries.
As a result of these initiatives and policies employed to
improve output, the Planning Institute of Jamaica’s Agricultural
Production Index indicated that gross output grew by 11.7 per
cent. Other Agricultural Crops which comprise mainly Domestic
Crops increased by 20.0 per cent and Export Crops by 12.3 per
cent. However, Animal Farming, Fishing and Post Harvest
Activities declined by 1.7 per cent, 5.3 per cent and 10.1 per cent,
respectively. Earnings from exports of Traditional Agricultural
commodities amounted to 39.1 compared with US$31.8 million in
2008.
Mining and Quarrying
Real value added for the Mining & Quarrying industry
declined by 50.2 per cent in 2009. The industry contributed 2.0
per cent to overall GDP compared with 3.8 per cent in 2008. This
was the third consecutive annual downturn and was due to
reductions in both alumina and crude bauxite production. The
decline in alumina production resulted from lower output at the
Kirkvine and Ewarton plants of the West Indies Alumina
Company (WINDALCO) and at Aluminium Partners (ALPART)
following the cessation of production in March 2009 and April
2009, respectively. These closures were in response to the global
recession and its negative impact on the price and demand for
aluminium which resulted in the closure of less efficient
aluminium and alumina plants. The decline in crude bauxite
production was in response to lower international demand for
alumina.
Preliminary export earnings totalled US$466.8 million, a
decline from US$1 368.3 million recorded in 2008. This
contraction reflected a fall in the value and volume of both
alumina and crude bauxite exports.
XI
The Industrial Minerals (Quarrying) sub-industry was
severely affected by the deepening global recession. With
the closure of three of the four alumina plants, the
completion of a major road rehabilitation programme and
other infrastructural projects, production of most industrial
minerals declined relative to 2008.
Manufacture
Manufacturers were assisted in navigating the
challenges that stemmed from the impact of the global crisis
on the industry. The assistance included: (a) removal of the
Custom User Fees payable on capital goods and raw
materials; (b) adjustment in the Government procurement
policy in favour of local manufacturers; and (c) reduction in
the time allowed for depreciating the cost of capital
equipment.
Real value added for the Manufacture industry was
estimated to have declined by 5.0 per cent during 2009 and
contributed 8.3 per cent to total gross domestic product.
This performance was due to declines in both major
components of the industry: Food, Beverages & Tobacco
and Other Manufacturing. With the intensification of the
impact of the global financial and economic crisis on the
Jamaican economy, the conditions within which the industry
operated worsened relative to 2008. Additionally,
production levels in Other Manufacturing were negatively
impacted by the downturn in the Construction and Mining &
Quarrying industries.
The decline in Manufacture was attributable to
challenges on the demand as well as the supply side. In
terms of demand there were difficulties associated with the
contraction in disposable income and weakened confidence
among consumers, to which producers responded by
reducing production. Supply-side constraints which existed
in the 2008, worsened in the first half of 2009 as the credit
market tightened and operational expenses increased. In
recognition of the supply-side challenges, special facilities
were extended to the industry by the public and private
sectors. A Stimulus Package was also instituted and special
loan facilities were extended by various financial
institutions.
Data at the end of December 2009 indicated that there
was a reduction in the value of Manufactured Exports
relative to the comparable period in 2008. Consistent with
falling global demand and commodity prices, the value of
locally manufactured exports declined and was reflective of
lower export earnings for both Traditional and
Non-Traditional Exports.
Construction
Real value added for the Construction industry declined
by an estimated 4.6 per cent. The performance of the
industry continued to be impacted by the global economic
and financial crisis. This led to the industry’s overall
contribution to GDP moving to 8.0 per cent compared with
8.2 per cent in 2008. Lower levels of activities were
recorded for the Building Construction and Other Building
Construction components. The downturn in the Building
Construction category reflected the reduction in residential
construction as well as other private and public projects. The
decline in Other Building Construction resulted from a fall
in Civil Engineering activities associated with construction
work at air and sea ports.
 XII
Several policies were developed and/or implemented to
facilitate activities within the industry. These included:
— the first draft of the National Housing Policy which is
aimed at among other things, improving the legislative
framework for housing, squatter regularization, and the
reactivation of the secondary mortgage market; and
— implementation of the new National Building Code
which is aligned with international codes to suit Jamai-
can conditions.
Development of infrastructure continued on various projects
including the Northern Jamaica Development Programme, the
Bogue Rehabilitation Project, and Emergency Road Repairs.
Other major activities which were undertaken throughout the year
included:
— continued work on the Highway 2000 Project; and
— a contract for approximately $1.2 billion in relation to
the Washington Boulevard Improvement Project
was signed and work commenced on widening 2.75
kilometres of roadway along Washington Boulevard
and Dunrobin Avenue.
SERVICES INDUSTRIES
Energy, Electricity and Water
Real value added for the Electricity & Water Supply industry
grew by 2.2 per cent relative to 2008, fuelled by higher electricity
generation and water production. The growth in output was
facilitated mainly by a 7.1 per cent increase in generation from the
non-Jamaica Public Service Company sources as output from
Jamaica Public Service Company sources grew by 0.1 per
cent to 2 867.1 GWh. Sales grew to 3 231.5 GWh from the 3 130.0
GWh recorded in 2008. Reflecting lower fuel prices for most part
of the year, revenue fell by 0.2 per cent to $71.7 billion.
Water production by the National Water Commission (NWC)
increased by 2.2 per cent to approximately 299 285.0 megalitres of
water. This was mainly due to higher levels of production in Other
Parishes (up 3.3 per cent) as output from Kingston & St. Andrew
& St. Thomas fell by 0.7 per cent to 80 507.7 megalitres. Increased
production in Other Parishes was facilitated by, among other
things: (a) rehabilitation works associated with the KMA Water
Supply Project; (b) less severe drought conditions in some
parishes; and (c) build up of surface source due to rains. The
prevailing drought conditions, especially in the second half of the
year, were the main contributor to the decline in water production
in Kingston, St. Andrew & St. Thomas. The number of
connections stood at 416 888, reflecting reduced connections in
Kingston, St. Andrew & St. Thomas (4.4 per cent) and Other
Parishes (4.8 per cent). Revenues grew by 15.6 per cent to
$15 003.6 million reflecting changes in the annual price
adjustment mechanism.
With respect to energy, a three-year planning project to
provide viable options for coping with the worldwide energy crisis
commenced during the year. The policies developed during the
period included the Carbon Emission Trading policy and the
Energy Conservation and Efficiency policy. In the area of
Alternative Energy Sources, activities relating to Wind Mapping,
Solar, Hydropower, Waste to Energy and Biomass were advanced
in terms of studies and testing.
XII
Transport, Storage and Communication
Real value added for the Transport, Storage &
Communication industry fell by 4.4 per cent relative to
2008. This decline was influenced mainly by reduced
activities at the island’s sea and airports, which was
associated with the downturn brought about by the global
economic recession. The fall-off in performance in the
Transport & Storage segment was reflected in a number of
indicators, including:
— the number of ship calls to the islands ports, down
5.3 per cent to 3 398;
— the volume of cargo handled, declined by 28.1 per
cent to 14.5 million tonnes;
— revenue passenger miles (Air Jamaica), down
27.6 per cent to 1 362 million;
— passenger movements at the island’s international
air ports, fell by 5.1 per cent to 4 850 463; and
— the number of vehicles certified fit to operate on
the is land’s road, declined by 6.8 per cent to
388 211.
These declines outweighed the growth recorded in the
telecommunications segment of the industry. Increased
telecommunication activities were associated with the
expansion and modernization of the network; adoption of
emerging technologies; introduction of new services; and
employment of a variety of marketing activities. At the end
of 2009, there was an estimated 3.0 million mobile and
302 336 fixed line customers compared with 2.7 million and
316 591, respectively, at the end of 2008. This brought the
number of telephone subscribers to approximately 3.2
million with a tele-density of 119/100 population. Five
telecommunications licences were approved, bringing the
total issued since liberalization to 446. There was a decline
of 5.1 per cent in the volume of mail handled by the Post &
Telecommunications Department. Revenue collected by the
Department also fell, while expenditure grew by 17.1 per
cent. This translated to a 65.8 per cent increase in the deficit
to $708.0 million.
The Transport sector operated within the context of the
National Transport Policy. In addition, a position paper on
the Single Road Authority, and the Drainage Master
Plan, were developed and the Road Maintenance Master
Plan was approved by Cabinet.
Tourism
The thrust of government’s tourism policies for 2009
focused on:(1) reducing the impact of the global recession;
(2) maintaining and increasing market share; (3)
maintaining and increasing visitor arrivals (stopover and
cruise passenger); and (4) maintaining and increasing airlift
capacity. During the year, the tourism industry was
negatively impacted by the global economic crisis. Despite
this, real value added for the Hotels and Restaurant industry
grew by an estimated 1.4 per cent and contributed 5.8 per
cent to overall Gross Domestic Product. Total stopover
arrivals grew by 3.6 per cent to 1 831 097, while cruise ship
passenger arrivals declined by 15.5 per cent to 922 349, the
third consecutive year of decline. Total stopover
expenditure was US$1859.1 million, a decrease of 0.7 per
cent relative to 2008. Total cruise expenditure declined by
 XIII
22.7 per cent to US$80.6 million. The average length of stay was
9.2 nights compared with 9.3 nights in 2008. Investment in the
industry included: the expansion of hotel room stock as well as an
increase in the number of attractions.
The main policy documents guiding the industry were the
Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development and the
Tourism Sector Plan of Vision 2030 Jamaica. The industry
benefitted from various Incentive Acts, including the Hotel
Incentives Act & Resort Cottages Incentives Act and the Tourism
Ground Transportation Sub-Industry Incentive Policy.
Wholesale & Retail Trade
The WRTRIM industry registered a 1.2 per cent decline in real
value added due to a decline in gross sales. The industry share of
total GDP increased to 19.3 per cent relative to 19.0 per cent in
2008. The lower value added was attributed to declines in
aggregate demand which reflected the impact of the global
economic and financial crisis. Purchasing power was constrained
by: (a) an 11.4 per cent decline in remittances; (b) declines in real
income; and (c) increased unemployment levels. On average,
business and consumer confidence during the year were lower
amidst uncertainty about future economic prospects. This resulted
in unwillingness to spend, primarily on the part of consumers.
THE SOCIAL SECTOR
DEMOGRAPHICS AND THE LABOUR
MARKET
Population
The population at the end of 2009 was estimated at 2 698 800
with a growth rate of 0.2 per cent. The rate of natural increase
was 9.8 per 1 000 with estimated births and deaths at 44 000
and 17 600, respectively and a loss of 20 000 to net external
movements. Migration continued to have a major impact on
population growth rate with the majority of migrants from Jamaica
going to the USA.
Jamaica is experiencing the effects of an ageing population
structure, with a declining 0–14 age group; and an increasing
working age (15–64) and dependent elderly age group (65 and
older age group). The elderly (60 and older) remains the fastest
growing segment of the population. This is due to declining
fertility and mortality rates and increased life expectancy. Age
Dependency Ratios are declining and will continue in this trend up
to 2020.
The Review of the fifteen year anniversary of the Programme
of Action of the International Conference on Population and
Development (ICPD+15) demonstrated that Jamaica has made
progress in population and development integration; reproductive
health; and the formulation of policies and programmes for
children, youth, elderly and persons with disabilities.
Labour Market
The labour market experienced the effects of the economic
downturn in 2009 as indicated by declines in employment and
participation in the labour force. The number of persons in the
labour force declined by 2.2 per cent to 1 270 500, and the labour
force participation rate decreased by 1.9 percentage point to 63.6
per cent. The male labour force participation rate was 71.8 per
cent, while the female rate was 55.7 per cent. The number of
employed persons decreased by 3.1 per cent to l 126 100. This
XIII
involved a decrease of 22 100 employed males to 639 000,
and a decline of 14 000 employed females to 487 100.
The unemployed labour force increased by 5.2 per cent
to 144 400. Average unemployment rate was 11.4 per cent,
an increase of 0.8 percentage point relative to 2008, with the
male unemployment rate being 8.6 per cent, and the female
rate being 14.8 per cent. The youth (14 –24 years)
unemployment rate increased to 27.1 per cent from 25.9 per
cent, while the adult (25 years and over) unemployment rate
averaged 8.9 per cent, compared with 7.9 per cent for 2008.
Employment declined in both the Goods Producing Industry
and the Services Industry and by 3.4 per cent to 406 700 and
3.0 per cent to 719 400, respectively. The Services Industry
accounted for 63.9 per cent of total employment.
A total of 10 341 Jamaicans participated in the
Government Overseas Employment Programme, a decline
of 13.5 per cent compared with 2008. Remittances from
participants employed in the United States of America
(USA) declined by 37.4 per cent to US$6.2 million, while
remittances from persons employed in Canada increased by
1.7 per cent to C$11.9 million.
Consistent with the general decline in employment, there
was a decline by 29.8 per cent to 3 569 in the number of work
permits issued to expatriates. Professionals, Senior Officials
and Technicians were the main beneficiaries of work permits
(73.3 per cent). The majority of work permits were approved
for six to less than 12 months (52.5 per cent).
The number of industrial disputes decreased by 20.6 per
cent to 158, while the number of work stoppages declined
from eight to four. The largest proportion of industrial
disputes (26.6 per cent) occurred in the Finance, Insurance,
Real Estate & Business Services sub-industry. Of the four
work stoppages, two occurred in the Community, Social and
Personal Services sub-industry. Despite the decline in the
number of work stoppages, the number of man-days lost, as
a result of work stoppages, increased to 2 188 from 2 100.
The number of workers involved, declined from 1 300 to
944. The average number of man-days lost per worker
increased to 2.3 from 1.6.
In May, the National Minimum Wage rate increased by
10.0 per cent to $4 070 for each forty hour week, or a rate of
$101.75 per hour worked. The minimum wage rate for
Industrial Security Guards also increased by 10.0 per cent to
$6 050 per week, or $151.25 per hour.
HUMAN DEVELOPMENT,
WELFARE AND CULTURE
Education and Training
The major emphasis in education and training was on
promoting access and quality in educational delivery. Much
effort was placed on infrastructural development,
maintaining tuition-free primary and secondary education,
providing nutritional and educational materials support,
improving quality of teacher education, and developing
policies and programmes relating to school attendance and
behaviour management. Measures were instituted at all
levels of the education system to improve the quality of
teaching and promote accountability and a culture of
excellence. With respect to quality, the Ministry of
Education focused on improving literacy and numeracy
through a Competency Based Transition Approach for
 XIV
primary students progressing to the secondary level. Through this
approach, students’ literacy and numeracy are certified before
they take the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) examinations.
Priority was placed on school safety and security through the
introduction of new behaviour management and modification
strategies. Of particular importance were the Alternate Student
Intervention Programme (ASIP), a time-out initiative which
targets students with maladaptive behaviours, and a Behaviour
Management Protocol.
The MOE improved access to education by creating a total of
2000 new spaces through the building of a new school (Belmont
Academy in Westmoreland) and increasing the number of spaces
available in existing schools. Belmont Academy was also the first
school to use the Centre of Excellence Framework introduced by
the Ministry to govern all new schools.
In the 2008/09 academic year, an estimated 82.8 per cent
(888 798 persons) in the school-age cohort (3-24 years old) were
enrolled. The total number of students enrolled in the public and
private education system at the pre-primary, primary and
secondary levels was 717 008, with gross enrolment rates of 98.9
per cent, 99.7 per cent, and 82.5 per cent, respectively. At the
tertiary level, gross enrolment was 30.8 per cent. The number of
persons trained in the category, Professional, Senior Officials and
Technicians was 14 151 (71.7 per cent female). Available data
showed that a total of 60 623 persons (55.3 per cent female) were
trained as skilled and semi-skilled personnel.
I n Tr a i n i n g , t h e N a t i o n a l T r a i n i n g A g e n c y
(HEART/Trust/NTA) established over 30 major partnerships to
expand access to training, nationally. One such project was the
Government of Jamaica/Government of India ICT Project to build
ICT capacity in Jamaica in the areas of Networking and Enterprise
Software Development.
Health
The Government continued its initiative to improve access to
public health facilities during the year. The initiative which saw
the removal of user fees from public sector health facilities
commenced in 2008, and during 2009, there were increases in the
number of visits to many public health facilities across the island
as well as the demand for pharmaceuticals. The National Public
Health Laboratory reported a 17.2 per cent increase in the number
of samples and tests conducted during the year relative to 2008.
There was a move to establish a direct reporting relationship
between the Regional Health Authorities and the Ministry of
Health’s (MOH) Head Office. This formed part of the ongoing
sectoral reform which aimed to strengthen the monitoring role of
the MOH.
There was the completion of the Mental Health Strategic Plan
and regional work plans during the year. Mental health experts
also raised concerns about the role of mental trauma and mental
stress as possible underlying causes for the high levels of
homicide and other acts of criminality prevalent in the society.
The National Surveillance and Management System was
launched with the primary objective to help health workers
manage the outbreak of contagious diseases. The outbreak of the
H1N1 virus provided an opportunity for the system to be tested.
There were two other outbreaks during the year, malaria in the
parish of St. Catherine which was brought under control, and
Hand Foot and Mouth disease in the parish of Kingston.
XIV
National Security and Justice
The Ministry of National Security (MNS) and the
Ministry of Justice commenced implementation of key
strategies and actions Vision 2030 Jamaica. This included:
the Jamaica Violence Prevention, Peace and Sustainable
Development Programme; the Rehabilitation and
Reintegration of Local Offenders and Deported Persons
Programme; and Phase I of the Citizens’ Security and
Justice Programme. Work also began on the National
Crime Prevention and Community Security Strategy as
well as a Youth Offender Strategy. The National Security
and Justice Thematic Working Group (TWG) was
established to provide guidance and oversight for the
implementation of these aspects of Vision 2030 Jamaica.
Additionally, MNS accomplished the following:
— began implementation of the recommendations
arising from the Jamaica Constabulary Force
(JCF) Strategic Review;
— preparation of an Anti-Corruption Plan;
— finalization of the Community Based Policing
(CBP) Training Manual; and
— merger of the JCF’s Narcotics Division and the
investigative arm of Operation Kingfish to form
the Transnational Crime and Narcotics Division
(TCND).
The major crime rate increased to 437 per 100 000 and
the murder rate increased to 62 per 100 000. This movement
in the major crime rate was due mainly to an increase of over
50.0 per cent in the reported cases of breaking and larceny.
The clear-up rates for major crimes and murder declined to
22.5 per cent and 28.8 per cent, respectively.
Prison rules and national standards for community
services were developed and implemented by the
Department of Correctional Services. Additionally, the
Hush the Guns programme was implemented at the
Diamond Crest facility.
Several pieces of legislation were enacted or amended
during the year including: the Sexual Offences Act; the
Child Pornography Act; the Appropriation Act; and the
Constitution (Constituencies) (Amendment) Act. Other
pieces of legislation were at various stages of development
such as, the Whistleblower Legislation and the Evidence
(Amendment) Act.
Social Development, Social Protection and Culture
Social development issues remained of critical
importance over the year, particularly given the challenges
on the economic front. Efforts were made to increase the
number of clients on PATH to the anticipated coverage of
360 000 announced the previous year. The pilot of the
Steps-to-Work programme was launched, and is being
effected in six parishes. The Government received
additional social welfare support from the World Bank,
through implementation of its Support to the Food Price
Crisis project.
Care and protection of children was again supported by
international development partners, particularly through the
GOJ/UNICEF Programme of Cooperation and the World
Bank sponsored Early Childhood Development Project.
 XV
Strengthening of the frameworks for the delivery of services to
children, early childhood development, research and policy
development were key areas of the child development agenda.
Youth development focused once more on empowering youth
through education and skill development, as well as soft skill
areas. Social inclusion and income support were two main
objectives of the programme interventions for elderly persons and
persons with disabilities.
A National Report to the United Nations on the country’s
status in relation to the Millennium Development Goals was
prepared with wide stakeholder involvement. It indicated that
while there was good progress in eight of fourteen global
indicators, and the country was on track to achieve other targets,
mortality targets were behind, and environmental and gender
equality targets were lagging.
Gender mainstreaming was further advanced with the
establishment of a Male Desk within the Bureau of Women’s
Affairs. Supported by non-government institutions and
international development partners, critical research studies and
community interventions were undertaken in support of gender
empowerment. Community development in general was also
supported by non-government agencies, international partners
and community-based organizations. Efforts at advancing Local
Government reform objectives were intensified over the year,
with the major areas of focus including service delivery, financial
management, governance, and the structure and functions of
Local Authorities. Cultural development continued to be
enhanced through various programmes, with the Jamaica Cultural
XV
Development Commission and other agencies seeking to
harness creative energies and talent, while preserving
national heritage and legacies.
CONCLUSION
The year 2009 was difficult. Globally, policymakers
struggled to keep their economies together using fiscal and
monetary tools whilst pursuing well-needed reforms.
Despite Jamaica’s favourable position in the area of
financial sector stability, the impact of the decline in foreign
exchange flows indicated the need for an SBA with the IMF.
This will support our Balance of Payments and the reform
and development efforts in the economic, social and
environmental sectors of the country.
The country continues to face the challenges of the
global economy, systemic weaknesses in the economy and
society and the realities of achieving structural change in the
short-term. Priority setting will be essential and should be
based on the demands, given the resources at our disposal.
While Jamaica has to respond to the short-term demands, it
cannot lose sight of the strategic and long-term requirements
for development as embedded in Vision 2030 Jamaica. A
change in the mindset of the nation is required if we are to
achieve sustainable prosperity over the next 20 years. The
successful realization of the vision, “Jamaica, the place of
choice to live, work, raise families, and do business”, will
therefore depend on the commitment of the entire society.¢
 1.1
CHAPTER 1
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY
INTRODUCTION
T he intensification of the global economic crisis during 2009
resulted in a contraction in global economic activities by 0.8
per cent in 2009. The overall decline for the year was due to the
contraction of economic output during the first half of the year, as
there was growth in the latter half, largely due to the impact of ex-
pansionary monetary and fiscal policies instituted by the major in-
dustrialized countries. The decline in global economic activities
was attributed to the performance of Advanced Countries, as
Emerging Market & Developing Countries recorded growth. All
major economic indicators were adversely affected by the reces-
sion. There was a decline in investor confidence which resulted in
a reversal of the growth trend in Foreign Direct Investment. Net
Official Flows to Emerging Market & Developing Countries were
positive for the first time in over a decade reflecting increased reli-
ance on funding from the IMF and other multilateral sources. The
lower consumer and investor confidence resulted in weakened de-
mand and a decline in global trade and commodity prices. In
response to the downturn in economic activities, the global
unemployment rate increased in all regions.
During the year, the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
between the European Commission (EC) and CARIFORUM was
provisionally applied. This agreement allows for World Trade
Organization (WTO) compatible duty free access for exports from
CARIFORUM members to the European market. Work towards
finalizing this Agreement focused on satisfying requirements for
the notification procedure to the WTO and preparation for the
establishment of the institutional arrangements necessary to fully
enact the Agreement. CARICOM was involved in preparatory
work and the first round of negotiations for the establishment of a
CARICOM-Canada Free Trade Agreement. It is expected that this
agreement could be completed by 2011. The WTO granted
approval for a waiver for the Caribbean Basin Economic
Recovery Act (CBERA) which provides non-reciprocal duty free
access to the United States market for key exports under the
Caribbean Basin Initiative. This waiver will expire in 2014.
Following the collapse of the Doha Development Round of
negotiations in 2008, no further progress was made in 2009,
however, WTO members reaffirmed their commitment to
continue working for its successful completion.
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
World Output
The global economy is estimated to have contracted by 0.8 per
cent in 2009, the first decline on record in over five decades and is
estimated to have been the worst economic performance since
World War II. This contraction was attributed to the global
economic recession which resulted in a stalling of the global
1 Developing Asia comprises 26 countries including China, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand and Malaysia.
1.1
financial system; decline in aggregate demand, commodity
prices and trade; and increased unemployment. Despite the
overall decline in economic output for calendar year 2009,
global economic activities began indicating growth in the
second quarter of 2009. The estimated contraction for 2009
was largely driven by the out-turn in the first quarter when
global output declined by 6.5 per cent.
The main impetus for stabilization during the year and
rebound of several economies was the implementation of
effective public policy measures which supported demand,
including:
— Government supported fiscal stimulus packages;
— Governments’ support to the Financial sector
through the injection of liquidity and interest rate
cuts; and
— the IMF’s use of its enhanced lending capacity
and more flexible facilities to assist Emerging
Market & Developing Countries impacted by the
crisis.
For 2009, real GDP for the group of Advanced
Economies contracted by an estimated 3.2 per cent,
reflecting the downturn recorded for most countries in the
category. The United States of America (USA) economy
contracted by an estimated 2.5 per cent, reflecting mainly the
downturn recorded during the first half of the year. The USA
was among the first Advanced economies to end the
recession due to the positive growth achieved in the latter
half of the year. The Euro region contracted by 3.9 per cent,
reflecting lower output by Germany, 4.8 per cent; the United
Kingdom 4.8 per cent; and France 2.3 per cent (Table 1.1)
Real GDP for the Japanese economy was estimated to have
declined by 5.3 per cent, representing the second
consecutive year of contraction, and was attributed to the
impact of the global recession on external demand for its
goods and services.
Despite the impact of the global economic crisis on
deteriorating trade and financial conditions, the group of
Emerging Market & Developing Countries (EM&DC) grew
by an estimated 2.1 per cent. This performance was largely
attributed to the 6.5 per cent growth recorded by the
sub-region Developing Asia1. Growth in this sub-region
was led by the Chinese and Indian economies which grew by
8.7 per cent and 5.6 per cent, respectively, and was attributed
to the relatively strong domestic demand. Growth was
recorded for all other sub-regions, with the exception of the
Western Hemisphere and the Commonwealth of
Independent States (CIS). The 2.3 per cent downturn in
 1.2 1.2

TABLE 1.1
ANNUAL PER CENT CHANGE IN GLOBAL OUTPUT AND TRADE, 2003 - 2009

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 r 2009 p

2010proj
REAL GDP
World Output 3.9 5.3 4.9 5.4 5.2 3.0 -0.8 3.9
Advanced Countries 2.1 3.2 2.6 2.9 2.7 0.5 -3.2 2.1
United States of America 3.0 3.9 3.2 2.9 2.0 0.4 -2.5 2.7
Euro Area 0.5 2.1 1.3 2.8 2.6 0.6 -3.9 1.0
Japan 2.5 2.3 2.6 2.2 2.4 -1.2 -5.3 1.7
Germany -0.1 1.2 0.9 2.9 2.5 1.2 -4.8 1.5
France 0.5 2.0 1.2 2.0 2.2 0.3 -2.3 1.4
Italy 0.3 1.1 n.a 1.9 1.5 -1.0 -4.8 1.0
United Kingdom 2.2 3.3 1.9 2.8 3.0 0.5 -4.8 1.3
Canada 2.0 3.3 2.9 2.8 2.7 0.4 -2.6 2.6
Other Advanced countries 2.3 4.0 3.1 3.7 4.6 1.7 -1.3 3.3
REGIONAL GROUPS
Emerging Market & Developing Countries 6.5 7.7 7.5 8.1 8.3 6.1 2.1 6.0
Africa 4.6 5.5 5.6 5.6 6.2 5.2 1.9 4.3
Developing Asia 8.1 8.0 9.2 9.8 10.6 7.9 6.5 8.4
China 10.0 10.1 10.4 11.1 13.0 9.6 8.7 7.7
Middle East 6.5 5.5 5.4 5.6 6.4 5.3 2.2 4.5
Western Hemisphere 2.2 5.7 4.6 5.5 5.7 4.2 -2.3 3.7
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) 7.9 8.4 6.6 7.7 8.6 5.5 -7.5 3.6

TRADE IN GOODS AND SERVICES

World Trade (volume) 5.5 10.7 7.8 9.1 7.3 3.0 -11.9 2.5
Exports
Advanced Countries 3.4 9.1 6.1 8.6 6.3 1.9 -13.6 2.0
Emerging Market & Developing Countries 11.0 14.8 11.7 11.0 9.8 4.6 -7.2 3.6

Imports (Volume)
Advanced Countries 4.2 9.2 6.5 7.6 4.7 0.5 -13.7 1.2
Emerging Market & Developing Countries 10.3 15.9 12.2 12.4 13.8 9.4 -9.5 4.6

r - revised
p - preliminary estimate
proj - projections
Source : IMF - WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK - Update, January 2010

GDP for the Western Hemisphere sub-region was due to tighter
financing conditions and a deterioration in external demand which
reduced consumption, investment and exports.
World Trade
The main conduit for the transmission of the impact of the
recession throughout the global economy was trade through the
negative impact of the crisis on aggregate demand globally.
During 2009, the volume of world trade in goods and services fell
by an estimated 11.9 per cent. This represents the first decline
since 1982 when trade volume declined by 0.7 per cent as a result
of the Latin American debt crisis. For Advanced Countries, the
volume of exports declined by 13.6 per cent in 2009, while
for EM&DC, the volume of exports declined by 7.2 per cent.
(see Table 1.1). The volume of imports from Advanced
Economies declined by13.7 per cent, while EM&DC
imports contracted by 9.5 per cent.
World trade prices denominated in US dollars for all the
main commodity groups declined, reflecting: Manufactures
(down 9.1 per cent); Oil (down 36.6 per cent); and Non-fuel
primary commodities (down 20.3 per cent). The declines
recorded in the prices of the main export commodities by
EM&DC (oil and non-fuel primary commodities) resulted in
a decline in the Terms of Trade2 for the group by 6.3 per cent.

2 Terms of Trade refers to the relative prices of a country’s exports to imports. An improvement in a nation’s terms of trade is good as it would
cost that country less exports for the imports it receives.
 1.3 1.3

TABLE 1.2
ANNUAL AVERAGE PER CENT CHANGE IN CONSUMER PRICES 2003-2009

2003 2004 2005r 2006r 2007 2008 r 2009 e

Advanced Economies 1.8 2.0 2.3 2.4 2.2 3.4 0.1
United States of America 2.3 2.7 3.4 3.2 2.9 3.8 -0.4
Japan -0.3 0.0 -0.3 0.3 0.0 1.4 -1.1
Germany 1.0 1.8 1.9 1.8 2.3 2.8 0.1
France 2.2 2.3 1.9 1.9 1.6 3.2 0.3
Italy 2.8 2.3 2.2 2.2 2.0 3.5 0.7
United Kingdom 1.4 1.3 2.0 2.3 2.3 3.6 1.9
Canada 2.7 1.8 2.2 2.0 2.1 2.4 0.1

Memorandum:
Euro Area 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.1 3.3 0.3
Emerging Market & Developing Countries 5.7 5.6 5.2 5.4 6.4 9.3 5.5
Africa 7.8 8.0 6.6 6.3 6.2 10.3 9.0
Developing Asia 2.5 4.1 3.6 4.2 5.4 7.5 3.0
Middle East 6.2 7.6 6.9 7.0 10.6 15.0 8.3
Western Hemisphere 10.6 6.5 6.3 5.3 5.4 7.9 6.1

Commonwealth of Independent States 11.9 10.3 12.1 9.4 9.7 15.6 11.8

r - revised
e - estimated
Source : IMF - WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK, October 2009

The Terms of Trade for Advanced economies improved by 2.0 per
cent, largely reflecting the price of manufactures falling by less
than half of the decline in prices recorded for other commodities.
The total value of exports of Goods & Services in 2009 was
US$15 218 billion, a decline of 29.7 per cent due to the fall in both
volume and prices. Exports of Goods declined by US$3 961
billion to US$11 919 billion while Services exports declined by
US$552 billion to US$3 299 billion.
Inflation
The high inventory levels and the downturn in demand
occasioned by the global economic crisis resulted in prices for
goods and services remaining subdued compared with 2008. This
translated to lower rates of inflation for all major regions in 2009.
For Advanced Countries, the rate of inflation averaged 0.1 per
cent, with the USA and Japan recording deflation of 0.4 per cent
and 1.1 per cent, respectively. (Table 1.2). This was the lowest
recorded for Advanced Countries in over four decades and was
attributed to the decline in commodity prices, particularly crude
oil.
EM &DC recorded average inflation of 5.5 per cent in 2009,
the lowest since 2006. Africa recorded the highest inflation rate
among the group of EM&DC.
Unemployment and Labour Market Trends
The average global unemployment rate increased for the
second consecutive year moving to 6.6 per cent in 2009, following
four consecutive annual declines between 2004 and 2007 (Table
13.1a). The number of unemployed persons amounted to 212
million persons, an increase of 27 million persons, and
reflected the downturn in global economic activity. Despite
this increase, the extent of job losses during the year was
mitigated by several initiatives implemented globally,
including:
— measures to stimulate labour demand (increased
government spending);
— employment retention measures (wage freeze and
cuts); and
— an increase in part time employment.
All sub-groups recorded higher rates of unemployment
during the year, with the most significant deterioration
recorded in Advanced Countries, which averaged 8.4 per
cent, 2.4 percentage points higher than the average for 2008.
The USA recorded an unemployment rate of 9.3 per cent, an
increase of 3.5 percentage points while in the Euro Area, the
unemployment rate averaged 9.9 per cent, up 2.3 percentage
points (Table 1.3b). The average unemployment rate for the
Latin America & Caribbean Region was 8.2 per cent, an
increase of 1.2 percentage points.
The male unemployment rate averaged 6.3 per cent,
while the female unemployment rate averaged 7.0 per cent.
The impact of the crisis indicated no major difference
between the sexes with respect to the change in
unemployment rates, as the rate for men increased by 0.7
percentage point, while for women the increase was 0.8
percentage point.
The global employment to population ratio fell by 0.5
percentage point to 60.9 per cent in 2009. Global labour
 1.4 1.4

TABLE 1.3a
GLOBAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE BY REGIONS, 2005 - 2009

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

World 6.4 6.3 6 5.7 5.8 6.6
Developed Economies & European Union 7.2 6.9 6.3 5.7 6 8.4
Central & South-Eastern Europe & CIS 9.7 9.4 9 8.3 8.3 10.3
East Asia 4.2 4.2 4 3.8 4.3 4.4
South-East Asia & the Pacific 6.4 6.5 6.1 5.4 5.3 5.6
South Asia 5.2 5.3 5.1 5 4.8 5.1
Latin America & The Caribbean 8.4 8 7.4 7 7 8.2
Middle East 9.3 10 9.5 9.3 9.2 9.4
North America 12.3 11.5 10.4 10.1 10 10.5
Sub-Saharan Africa 8.2 8.2 8.2 8 8 8.2

Source: ILO, Global Employment Trends, January 2010

TABLE 1.3b
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR INDUSTRIALIZED COUNTRIES (Per Cent) 2003-2009

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (per cent) 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007r 2008r 2009p
Advanced Countries 6.5 6.3 6.0 5.7 5.4 5.8 8.2
United States of America 6.3 5.5 5.1 4.6 4.6 5.8 9.3
Japan 5.6 4.7 4.4 4.1 3.8 4.0 5.4
Euro Area 9.6 8.9 8.6 8.7 7.5 7.6 9.9
Germany 8.3 9.2 10.6 9.8 8.4 7.4 8
France 8.9 9.6 9.7 9.2 8.3 7.9 9.5
Italy 8.9 8.1 7.7 6.8 6.1 6.8 9.1
United Kingdom 5.3 4.8 4.8 5.4 5.4 5.5 7.6
Canada 6.7 7.2 6.8 6.3 6.0 6.2 8.3

r - revised
e - estimated
Source : IMF - WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK, October 2009

productivity declined by an estimated 2.5 per cent, largely
reflecting the relatively sharper decline in world output. The most
significant decline in labour productivity was recorded in the
sub-region Central & South East Europe (non-EU) & the CIS
which declined by 4.7 per cent. Labour productivity for Advanced
Economies fell by an estimated 1.3 per cent. However, increased
labour productivity rates were recorded in East Asia (up 4.0 per
cent), South Asia (up 2.6 per cent) and North Africa (up 0.6 per
cent).
INTERNATIONAL TRADE POLICY AND COMMODITY
MARKETS
World Trade Organization (WTO)
No substantive progress was made in advancing the Doha
Development Agenda (DDA) in 2009 following the collapse at the
2008 Mini-ministerial Conference. The seventh WTO Ministerial
Conference held in 2009 served to reaffirm members’
commitments to concluding the Doha Round by 2010. However,
there is pessimism regarding the ability of member states to
conclude the negotiations in 2010 which created a ‘crisis of
legitimacy’ regarding the WTO and its ability to effect the
DDA.
The EU, in an attempt to avoid trade sanctions and satisfy
the WTO Appellate Body ruling that the EU Banana import
regime violated international trade rules on Most Favoured
Nation (MFN) treatment, proposed a new regime for the
treatment of bananas in February 2009. This included an
immediate reduction in the tariff on banana from 176 per
tonne to 148 per tonne and further to 143 per tonne on
January 1, 2010 and to 136 per tonne by January 1, 2011.
The proposal was not accepted by the MFN banana
producers. However, the EU is engaged in negotiations to
establish a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the major
banana producing countries of Central America who
initially challenged the EU banana import regime in the
WTO. Under these negotiations, the EU proposed a tariff
reduction to 95 per tonne over a ten year period. The
African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states have
acknowledged that this bilateral agreement is inevitable and
have shifted focus to negotiating a suitable compensation
package with the EU. A compensation package of 160
 1.5 1.5

million was proposed by the EU for the 14 banana exporting
countries of the ACP which was rejected on the basis of
inadequacy. The ACP has proposed a sum of 400- 500 million and
is expected to conduct the empirical analysis to justify their claim
based on a quantification of the costs of adjustment.
CARICOM
Trade negotiations involving CARICOM during 2009 focused
on:
— preparatory work and initiation of negotiations on the
establishment of a CARICOM/Canada Free Trade
Agreement;
— continued work on securing a waiver for the Caribbean
Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA); and
— the implementation of the CARIFORUM-EC Eco-
nomic Partnership Agreement.
CARICOM/Canada
Technical preparations for the commencement of a FTA with
Canada were undertaken during 2009, with emphasis on the
formulation of a Development Dimension component of the Draft
Negotiating Brief. The Development Dimension paper identified
the development co-operation priorities and the specific proposals
which will form the basis for CARICOM’s negotiations with
Canada. Some of the provisions included are:
— Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) which re-
quires asym met ri cal commit ments in fa vour of
CARICOM. These SDT provisions include longer
transitional periods and technical assistance;
— Trade Capacity Building aimed at addressing supply
side constraints to competitiveness, including the de-
velopment of innovation systems;
— Cooperation for the implementation of commit-
ment through technical and financial assistance;
and
— Adjustment to long term liberalization including
fiscal support and debt relief strategies.
The first Round of negotiations between CARICOM and
Canada occurred in November 2009 and will continue with
at least two more Rounds in 2010. Negotiations for this
agreement are expected to be completed by mid-2011.
ACP-EC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
Negotiations to establish the CARIFORUM-European
Commission (EC) Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
was completed during the last quarter of 2008 and its
provisional application commenced on December 29, 2008.
During 2009, the first full year of its application, the main
focus was on implementing specific actions to
operationalize various elements of the Agreement and create
greater awareness of the benefits of the Agreement among
the major stakeholders. Some of the specific actions
undertaken throughout CARIFORUM included:
— the formulation of the rules and regulations which
govern the various institutional organs of the EPA
including a Joint Council and the Trade & Devel-
opment Committee. The first meeting of the Joint
Council is scheduled to convene in 2010;
— awareness-building programmes on the EPA,
particularly in the Least Developed Countries.
Efforts focussed on enhancing the capacity of
member states to implement their obligations un-
der the Agreement and assist the private sector to
identify opportunities which arise from the
Agreement;

TABLE 1.4
SELECTED COMMODITY PRICE DATA, 2004 - 2009, US$

Commodity Price per unit 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 % Change
2009
/2008
Crude Oil (Average Spot) $/bbl 7.7 53.4 64.3 71.1 96.99 61.76 -36.2
Cocoa c/kg 155.0 153.8 159.2 195.2 257.70 288.9 12.1
Coffee, arabica c/kg 177.3 253.2 252.2 272.5 308.20 317.10 2.9
Coffee, robusta c/kg 79.3 111.5 149.0 191.0 232.10 164.40 -29.2
Bananas, EU $/mt 892.0 1176.0 897.0 1037.0 1188.00 1145.00 -3.6
Bananas, US $/mt 524.6 602.8 677.2 675.8 844.00 847.00 0.4
Oranges $/mt 857.5 874.7 829.0 957.0 1107.00 909.00 -17.9
Sugar, US c/kg 45.5 46.9 48.8 45.8 46.86 54.88 17.1
Sugar, World c/kg 15.8 21.8 32.7 22.2 28.21 39.91 41.5
Sugar, EU c/kg 67.0 66.5 64.6 68.1 69.69 52.44 -24.8
Aluminum $/mt 1 716.00 1 898.00 2 570.00 2 638.00 2 573.00 1 665.00 -35.3
Maize $/mt 111.8 98.7 121.9 163.7 223.10 165.50 -25.8
Sorghum $/mt 109.8 96.2 122.9 162.7 207.80 151.10 -27.3
Wheat, HRW $/mt 156.9 152.4 192.0 255.2 326.00 224.10 -31.3
Phosphate Rock $/mt 41.0 42.0 44.2 70.9 345.60 121.70 -64.8
Potassium chloride $/mt 124.6 158.2 174.5 200.2 570.10 630.40 10.6
Urea $/mt 175.3 219.0 222.9 309.4 493.00 249.60 -49.4

Source: The World Bank, Commodity Market Review, January 2010

 1.6 1.6

— the completion of the first draft of the tabulation of
trade and tariff data for each CARIFORUM member.
As part of the notification process3 all parties to the
agreement must fulfil the WTO Transparency Mecha-
nism which requires the full disclosure of trade and tar-
iff data. The notification will then be reviewed by the
WTO Committee on Regional Trade Agreements to
ensure compliance.
cent, with the average spot crude oil price reaching
US$61.76 (down 36.3 per cent). Despite ending the year at
prices lower than the pre-crisis levels, oil prices increased by
69.2 per cent between the first and the fourth quarters of
2009. This increase was a result of:
— production cuts by Organization of Petroleum
Exporting Countries (OPEC);

Other immediate implications for the provisional application
of the CARIFORUM-EC EPA include the implementation of a
zero rate of duty on specified products of EC origin and the
elimination of customs duty on exports. The Agreement secures
continued preferential duty free access of CARIFORUM exports,
such as Banana, to the EC market on a WTO compatible basis.
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA)
CARICOM’s preferential trade access to the United States
market is facilitated by the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery
Act (CBERA) which also provides legal coverage for the
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA). The CBERA,
which expired in 2005, is not WTO compliant because it is
non-reciprocal in nature and, therefore, requires a special waiver
from the WTO to remain in force. Efforts by the US to secure the
waiver were blocked because of objections from several WTO
members. However, in May 2009, the WTO Council for Trade in
Goods approved the CBERA waiver which will remain in force
until 2014.
INTERNATIONAL COMMODITY MARKETS
Commodity Prices
The upward trend observed in global commodity prices since
2006 was halted in 2009 as the contraction in demand, associated
with the global economic recession, resulted in a fall in prices.
During 2009, commodity inventories remained above-average
with high spare capacity for all major commodity groups, with the
exception of food. The Energy Price Index declined by 37.3 per
— signs of an earlier than anticipated end to the
global recession which helped to bolster confi-
dence; and
— weakening of the United States dollar against
other major currencies.
The Non-energy Price Index fell by 21.7 per cent during
the year, largely reflecting declines in the indices for Metals
& Minerals (27.7 per cent), Fertilizer (48.3 per cent), Food
(17.1 per cent) and Grains (23.7 per cent). The decline in the
Metals & Minerals sub-index was reflected in the movement
of the price for aluminium which declined by 35.3 per cent to
US$1 665.00 per tonne, the lowest price in five years.
However, throughout 2009, the price of aluminium
increased by 47.3 per cent. This increase was attributed to
restocking by China as well as labour disputes affecting
economies of the main suppliers.
Increased prices were recorded for Beverages (up 4.7 per
cent) and Other Food (up 2.5 per cent) sub-groups, as
indicated by their respective indices. The increased index
for Beverages was driven by the higher prices recorded for
Cocoa and Coffee (see Table 1.4). Within the Other Food
category, higher prices were recorded for sugar and bananas.
The higher prices recorded in these categories reflected
weather induced supply shortages (cocoa, sugar); increased
demand (coffee); and labour disputes (cocoa).

TABLE 1.5
GLOBAL FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INFLOWS, 2007 - 2009, US$Billion

2007 2008 2009 % Change

World 1 833.3 1697.4 1040.3 -38.7
Developed Economies 1 247.6 962.3 565.6 -41.2
Europe 848.5 518.3 373.5 -27.9
United States 232.8 316.1 135.9 -57.0
Japan 22.5 24.4 11.4 -53.3
Developing Countries 499.7 620.7 405.5 -34.7
Africa 53.0 87.6 55.9 -36.2
Latin America & the Caribbean 126.3 144.4 85.5 -40.8
South & South East Asia 247.8 297.6 202.8 -31.9
Transition Economies 85.9 114.4 69.3 -39.4
Russian Federation na 70.3 41.4 -41.1

Source: UNCTAD - Global Investment Trends Monitor, January 2010

3 The WTO must be notified of all Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) in order to be WTO compliant.
 1.7 1.7

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL MARKETS
Capital Flows
Global Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows declined by
38.7 per cent to US$1 040.3 billion in 2009. There were declines
in flows to all countries/regions. The downturn in the world
economy resulted in a fall in corporate profits and stock prices
which reduced the scope for cross border Mergers and
Acquisitions (M&As). Flows to Developed Countries declined by
41.2 per cent to US$565.6 billion, the second consecutive annual
decline. This was largely due to the US$180.2 billion (57.0 per
cent) decline in flows to the USA and US$144.8 billion (27.9 per
cent) decline in flows to Europe (Table 1.5). The decline in flows
to the USA and Europe was largely due to the fall in M&As by 82.5
per cent and 53.5 per cent, respectively. The decline
recorded by Japan was attributed to the sale of a large foreign
affiliate to a local company.
FDI flows to Developing Countries declined by 34.7 per
cent to US$405.5 billion, following six consecutive years of
growth. Flows to all sub-regions declined led by lower
flows to South & South East Asia (down 31.9 per cent to
US$202.8 billion). The decline in flows to this region was
attributed to lower demand for Chinese and Indian made
goods and services which resulted in a cut in investments by
foreign owned companies. FDI flows to Latin America &
the Caribbean declined by 40.8 per cent to US$85.5 billion,
due largely to the divestment of previously foreign owned
firms to local investors.

TABLE 1.6
CAPITAL FLOWS TO EMERGING MARKET & DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, 2003-2009, US$ Billion

2003 2004 2005r 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009p

Western Hemisphere
Net Private Capital Flows 22.2 14.5 50.3 36.9 112.2 67 24.8
Net Official Flows 4.4 -8.6 -41.1 -43.6 -0.9 3.6 27.5
Change in Reserves a -33 -22.3 -33.5 -50.3 -133.1 -51.5 -19.3

Africa
Net Private Capital Flows 7 17.2 16.9 6.9 30 28.5 21
Net Official Flows 2.5 -0.1 8.3 6.6 6.6 6 15.6
Change in Reserves a -11.6 -31.9 -43.2 -54.5 -61.1 -53.6 13.9

Emerging Asia
Net Private Capital Flows 65.3 146.8 90.2 54.9 200.6 35.7 -54.3
Net Official Flows -17.8 -13.2 0.5 -2.4 6.2 -0.3 3.6
Change in Reserves a -236 -340.1 -235.2 -322.6 -629.5 -437.5 -329.3

Central & Eastern Europe

Net Private Capital Flows 53.7 75.3 103.4 118.8 185.5 154.7 6.4
Net Official Flows -5.1 -6.6 3.1 3.8 -6.4 21.1 34.5
Change in Reserves a -12.9 -14.5 -44.1 -32.7 -36.3 -5.7 -1.9

Middle East
Net Private Capital Flows 1.7 -22.1 2 -11.6 43.3 -58.9 48
Net Official Flows -23.7 -31.3 -42.2 -74.4 -73.4 -110.2 -51.6
Change in Reserves a -33.4 -45.7 -108.5 -131.3 -199.3 -161.9 -44.4

Commonwealth of Independent States

Net Private Capital Flows 18.3 7.6 22.9 56.2 124.9 -97.4 -98.5
Net Official Flows -8.9 -7.3 -11.9 -30.2 -1.6 -25.7 20.8
Change in Reserves a -32.7 -54.8 -77.1 -127.8 -168.1 33.2 20.8

Total
Net Private Capital Flows 168.3 239.4 285.7 262 696.5 129.5 -52.5
Net Official Flows -48.7 -67.2 -83.4 -140.2 -69.5 -105.7 50.3
Change in Reserves a -359.7 -509.2 -541.6 -719.1 -1227.3 -676.9 -360.2

a - minus indicates an increase

p - projected
r-revised
Source : IMF - WORLD ECONOMIC OUTLOOK, October 2009
 1.8
Net Private Capital Flows4 to EM&DCs declined by US$182
billion to –US$52.5 billion, reflecting the impact of a combination
of factors including increased divestment of foreign owned
affiliates and a reduction in investment due to a fall in demand.
(Table 1.6). This decline ended over a decade of increased Net
Private Capital Flows to EM&DCs and was due to the downturn
recorded in the Commonwealth of Independent States (down
US$98.5 billion) and Emerging Asia (down US$54.3 billion). All
other sub-regions recorded positive Net Private Capital Flows,
albeit at much lower levels compared with 2008.
The impact of the global recession resulted in an increased
reliance by EM&DC on Official Flows to address imbalances in
their fiscal and Balance of Payments accounts. In 2009, Net
Official Flows to EM&DC increased by US$50.3 billion,
reflecting increased inflows relative to outflows. All sub-regions,
with the exception of Emerging Asia, recorded increased Net
Official Flows (see Table 1.6).
OUTLOOK
The global economy is projected to continue the process of
recovery in 2010 with growth projected at 3.9 per cent. The
recovery will be largely supported by:
— the expansionary monetary and fiscal policies insti-
tuted in both Advanced Economies and EM&DC; as
well as
— a turn in the inventory cycle following the destocking in
2009 amidst high inventory levels and falling demand
and prices.
Advanced Economies are projected to grow by 2.1 per cent
and EM&DC are expected to grow by 6.0 per cent. In Advanced
Economies, the recovery process is expected to be slow and long
as support from public policies is withdrawn, unemployment
remains above trend and consumers limit their consumption and
focus on rebuilding savings. For EM&DC the stronger growth
projection is expected to be driven by more buoyant internal
demand, especially in Developing Asia.
4 Net private capital flow is the difference between FDI inflows and outflows.
1.8
There are some short-term downside risks which could
halt the recovery process, including:
— the earlier than expected end to the supportive
monetary and fiscal policies. Analysts have iden-
tified two main forces supporting this risk.
Firstly, there are concerns that the policy induced
rebound could be mistaken for the beginning of
strong recovery, resulting in an early end of gov-
ernment support. Additionally, there is growing
resistance to extending government support
based on concerns regarding the extent of gov-
ernment intervention and the impact on debt ra-
tios, which may not allow enough time for private
demand to strengthen;
— an undermining of the progress in major econo-
mies by rising unemployment, greater than ex-
pected increases in delinquencies on residential
and commercial real estate and a higher than nor-
mal number of corporate bankruptcies; and
— the weakened inability of the global economy to
withstand shocks which could normally be ac-
com mo dated, such as the H1N1 flu or
geopolitical tensions.
The main upside consideration to the growth projection
is the success of the various policy measures resulting in a
greater than anticipated rebound in financial market
sentiment, investment and consumption.
Inflation is expected to remain subdued in Advanced
Countries averaging 1.25 per cent, given the low levels of
capacity utilization. The likely upward pressures from
higher energy prices are expected to be outweighed by the
slow movement in labour costs. In EM&DC, inflation is
expected to rise to an average of 6.25 per cent, with upward
pressures emanating from the limited spare capacity and
rising demand.¢
CHAPTER 2

OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT
ASSISTANCE
INTRODUCTION Monetary Fund (IMF). Some Multilateral Financial
Institutions2 (MFIs) were awaiting the outcome of the

O
fficial Development Assistance (ODA) in the form of
loans, grants and technical assistance played a role in off-
setting the effects of the global financial crisis and ensuring ac-
ceptable levels of social expenditure. Newly approved ODA to-
talled US$1.2 billion ($106.1 billion)1, an 86.3 per cent increase
compared with 2008 (Figure 2A). The resources were approved
primarily to support the productive sector, promote fiscal stability
and to strengthen the country’s eco nomic in fra structure.
Forty-four per cent of the newly approved ODA represented re-
sources from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Notwithstanding the increase in ODA, the level of resources
approved was lower than anticipated, due mainly to protracted
negotiations for a Standby Agreement with the International
Agreement before committing new resources for quick
disbursing Policy Based Loans (PBLs ), in the latter part of
the year.
Bilateral partners and Multilateral Technical
Cooperation agencies (MTC)3 approved financial and
technical assistance amounting to US$577.2 million ($51.1
billion). Of this amount, US$398.0 million ($35.2 billion)
was approved by the PRC in December for road
infrastructure. Financial and technical assistance from the
Department for International Development (DFID) of the
United Kingdom, also registered a notable increase from
US$1.1 million ($97.3 million) in 2008 to US$11.9 million
($1.1 billion) in 2009. The assistance was to support Social
Infrastructure (Table 2.3).

1,200.0 1,178.2

1,000.0

800.0

631.0
594.6
600.0

400.0

257.4
196.1
200.0
157.4
117.7

0.0
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 2A: TOTAL APPROVED ODA, 2002-2009,(US$ million)

1 The exchange rate is US$1: $88.46

2 Inter-American Development Bank, World Bank, Caribbean Development Bank and European Union
3 Food and Agriculture Organization, International Atomic Energy Agency, Organization of American States, Pan American Health
Organization, UNAIDS, United Nations Environmental Programme, United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural
Organization, United Nations Children’s Fund, United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Population Fund, Global
Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria
 2.2

TABLE 2.1
SOURCES OF NEW OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE (ODA), 2001-2009
US$ MILLION

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant Loan Grant
Bilateral Cooperation 12.9 29.2 - 9.0 - 10.7 - 36.1 105.0 84.0 532.9 19.7 12.9 9.6 43.9 14.9 508.0 59.8
Multilateral Financial
Institutions 238.8 32.8 221.8 9.5 28.7 71.7 92.4 38.6 54.1 8.9 30.5 8.2 77.3 49.0 455.4 62.4 462.0 139.0
Multilateral Technical
Cooperation - 4.4 - 5.3 - 6.6 - 29.0 - 5.4 - 3.3 - 8.6 0.0 54.3 - 9.4
Total 251.7 66.4 221.8 23.8 28.7 89.0 92.4 103.7 159.1 98.3 563.4 31.2 90.2 67.2 499.3 131.7 970.0 208.2

Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica and International Development Partners

Total disbursements of loan and grant resources increased by being approved by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS,
38.4 per cent to US$495.4 million ($43.8 billion). Disbursements Tuberculosis and Malaria, as the amounts provided in 2008
from the World Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank were still being utilized.
(CDB) increased by 805.3 per cent or US$107.1 million ($9.5
billion) and 131.6 per cent or US$32.6 million ($2.9 billion) Total disbursements of US$495.4 million ($43.8 billion)
respectively, due to releases in early 2009 of PBLs. However, included loans amounting to US$342.6 million ($30.3
while the increases are notable, they reflected the relatively low billion) and grants of US$152.8 million ($13.5 billion). The
levels of disbursements from the World Bank and CDB in 2008. disbursements in both categories represented increases of
US$101.9 million ($9.0 billion) or 42.3 per cent in loans and
FINANCING US$36.5 million ($3.2 billion) or 31.4 per cent in grants.
The MFIs disbursed US$433.9 million ($39.3 billion), of
New ODA of US$1.2 billion ($106.1 billion) comprised loans which US$326.5 million ($28.9 billion) were loans and
and grants of US$970.0 million ($85.8 billion) and US$208.2 US$107.4 million ($9.5 billion) were grants. The
million ($18.4 billion), respectively (Table 2.1). Approved disbursements from MFIs increased by US$168.8 million
financing from the MFIs was US$601.0 million ($53.2 billion) or ($14.9 billion) or 63.3 per cent compared with 2008 (Figure
51.0 per cent of the total new ODA while bilateral partners 2B). This increase was largely attributed to disbursements to
approved US$567.8 million ($50.2 billion) or 48.2 per cent. This the productive sector and releases of PBLs for budget
new assistance from bilateral partners represented an increase of support programmes. Total disbursements from bilateral
US$509.0 million ($44.8 billion) compared with 2008, primarily partners were US$47.8 million ($4.2 billion) a decrease of
attributable to the increased levels of loan resources from the PRC. 40.0 per cent compared with 2008 when bilateral
Additionally, new assistance from the MTC agencies amounted to disbursements were augmented by a substantial line of credit
US$9.4 million ($831.5 million), a reduction of US$44.9 million from the Government of Belgium. Disbursements from the
($4.0 billion). The decrease was largely due to no new resources MTC agencies totaled US$13.7 million ($1.2 billion), which

600.0

500.0
6.1 13.7

400.0 129.3

11.6
US$M

300.0 2.9
433.9

265.8
4.1 7.5
200.0
262.1 347.0
13.4 6.4
163.9 161.8
5.0 101.8
100.0
125.0
75.1
79.6
47.6 31.1 44.7 52.7 29.4 47.8
36.0
0.0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Bilateral Multilateral Financial Multilateral Technical

FIGURE 2B: DISBURSMENTS BY SOURCE, 2001-2009

 2.3

Figure 2C: DISTRIBUTION OF NEW OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

Economic
Infrastructure
35% Directly Productive
38%

Social Infrastructure
8%
Administrative
19%

FIGURE 2C: DISTRIBUTION OF NEW OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

included amounts from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS,
Tuberculosis and Malaria of US$6.4 million ($566.1 million).
SECTOR ALLOCATION OF NEW ODA
Develop mental assistance fr om the Internation al
Development Partners (IDPs) was channelled to the following
sectors: Directly Productive4, US$442.1 million ($39.1 million);
Economic Infrastructure5, US$408.0 million ($36.1 billion);
Administrative6, US$228.5 million ($20.2 billion); and Social
Infrastructure7, US$99.3 million ($8.7 billion) (Table 2.3). The
amounts directed to each sector represent 38.0 per cent, 35.0 per
cent, 19.0 per cent and 8.0 per cent of the total new ODA
respectively (Figure 2C).
Of the resources approved for the Directly Productive sector,
the MFIs earmarked US$326.5 million ($28.9 billion), an increase
of US$314.3 million ($27.8 billion). The Economic Infrastructure
sector benefitted from approved loan resources of US$398.0
million ($35.2 billion) from the bilateral partners. Total
funding for the Economic Infrastructure sector increased by
US$298.0 million (26.4 billion) compared with 2008. The
resources to the Administrative sector were mainly budget
support programmes for US$225.2 million ($19.9 billion)
which the MFIs provided. The amount for this sector
represented a decrease of US$24.5 million ($2.2 billion)
compared with the previous year. The amounts approved for
Social Infrastructure, which is a reduction of US$104.8
million ($9.3 billion) compared with 2008, were primarily
funded by the bilateral partners in the amount of US$52.9
million ($4.7 billion).
NET FLOWS
The combined disbursement from the multilateral
lending agencies8 of US$332.0 million ($28.5 billion)
resulted in a positive net position9. Total repayment of
principal, interest and other charges amounted to US$194.1

TABLE 2.2
NET FLOWS, 2009
(US$ MILLIONS)

IDB CDB IBRD TOTAL

Loan Disbursements 154.2 57.4 120.4 332.0
DEBT SERVICING:
Repayments (Principals) 74.0 13.8 49.2 137.1
Interest and Charges 29.7 12.0 15.3 57.0
Net Cash Flow 50.5 31.6 55.8 137.9

Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica and International Development Partners

4 Directly Productive – Agriculture, Tourism, Mining, Manufacturing, Micro, Small and Medium Business Enterprises
5 Economic Infrastructure – Transport, Power, Water, Sewerage
6 Administrative – Public Sector Reform, Budgetary Support
7 Social Infrastructure – Health, Education, Housing, Safety Net
8 Inter-American Development Bank, World Bank and Caribbean Development Bank
9 Net Flows = Total Disbursements – Total Repayments
 2.4
million ($17.2 billion), an increase of US$4.1 million ($362.7
million). This resulted in a net position of US$137.9 million
($12.2 billion) an improvement of US$155.3 million ($13.7
billion) compared with 2008 (as indicated in Table 2.2.)
CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
The cooperation programme with the Caribbean Development
Bank (CDB) comprised 18 projects amounting to US$356.2
million ($31.5 billion). Financing for the portfolio totalled
US$283.9 million ($25.1 billion) in loans and US$11.5 million
($1.0 billion) in grants. Local counterpart funding was US$60.8
million ($5.4 billion). The sectoral distribution of the loan
financing was Social Infrastructure US$51.3 million ($4.5
billion), Economic Infrastructure US$118.6 million ($10.5
billion), Administrative US$106.2 million ($9.4 billion), and
Directly Productive US$7.8 million ($690.0 million).
Total disbursements amounted to US$57.4 million ($5.1
billion) of which loan disbursements were US$56.0 million ($5.0
billion), an increase of US$32.6 million (2.9 billion) compared
with 2008, and grant disbursements were US$1.4 million ($123.8
million). No new loans were approved during the year.
EUROPEAN UNION
The European Union (EU) continued to be Jamaica’s largest
donor of grant resources in 2009. The Cooperation Programme
totalled grants of €325.5 million ($39.3 billion)10 for 17
programmes. Government counterpart financing for the
programmes totalled €4.8 million ($688.3 million). The sectoral
distribution of the grant financing was as follows: Social
Infrastructure €10.1 million ($1.2 billion); Economic
Infrastructure €87.9 million ($10.6 billion); Administrative
€166.7 million ($20.1 billion); and Directly Productive €60.7
million ($7.3 billion).
A total of €74.7 million ($9.0 billion) was disbursed,
representing a 34.8 per cent increase compared with 2008. This
increase is attributable to the commencement of budget support
disbursements under the 2008–2013 National Indicative
Programme (NIP). An overall 85.0 per cent of the NIP is
programmed as budget support, such that funds are disbursed
directly to the Consolidated Fund upon fulfillment by the
Government of agreed disbursement conditions.
Financing Agreements totalling €100.2 million ($12.1 billion)
were signed for the following programmes:
– The Debt Re duc tion and Growth En hance ment
Programme, a budget support programme under two fi-
nancing agreements, totalling €49.0 million ($5.9 bil-
lion), which aims to contribute to a reversal in existing
public debt build-up dynamics, by strengthening public
finance and debt management, supporting the divestment
of debt-creating entities and supporting improvement of
the business environment;
– The 2008 Accompanying Measures for Sugar Protocol
Countries for €9.8 million ($1.2 billion), which will pro-
mote the development of a sustainable private sector led
sugar cane industry and strengthen economic diversifica-
tion, social resilience and environmental sustainability of
sugar dependent areas;
10 The exchange rate is €1: $120.64
– The Security Sector Reform Programme, total-
ling €33.0 million ($4.0 billion), will contribute to
the strengthening of the legal, regulatory, institu-
tional and operational systems to, efficiently inves-
tigate and reduce crime, as well as maintain peace
and effectively deliver criminal justice and prose-
cute corrupt persons;
– The 2008 Special Framework of Assistance in the
amount of €2.5 million ($301.6 million), for the Eu-
ropean Union Banana Support Programme, which
aims to improve living standards of farmers, farm
and port workers and their communities in the ba-
nana producing areas through the continued im-
provement in competitiveness of the export industry
and diversification from banana production to alter-
native sustainable livelihoods; and
– The Strengthening Jamaica’s Food Security
Programme, which is funded by the EU Food Fa-
cility, was approved for the amount of €5.9 million
($711.8 million). The project will assist small scale
farmers to increase agricultural production and pro-
ductivity and to also strengthen the data collection
systems within the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries.
INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
(IDB)
The cooperation programme with the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB) totalled US$711.6 million ($62.9
billion). This comprised US$614.1 million ($54.3 billion) in
loans for 16 projects, grant support of US$19.1 million ($1.7
billion) and local counterpart loan financing of US$78.4
million ($6.9 billion). The sectoral distribution of the
projects in the loan portfolio was as follows: Social
Infrastructure, US$90.0 million ($8.0 billion); Economic
Infrastructure, US$181.0 million ($16.0 billion);
Administrative, US$8.5 million ($751.9 million) and
Directly Productive, US$334.6 million ($29.6 billion).
Total disbursements amounted to US$154.2 million
($13.7 billion) of which loan disbursements were US$151.5
million ($13.4 billion), an increase of 4.5 per cent compared
with 2008. Investment loans accounted for the full amount,
as no PBLs were disbursed. This is in contrast to the
previous year when PBLs accounted for approximately 80%
of the loan resources disbursed. Disbursements of grant
resources totalled US$2.7 million ($238.8 million).
Three new investment loan projects amounting to
US$331.0 million ($29.3 billion) were approved. Namely:
– T h e L i q u i d i t y P ro g r a m me f o r G ro w t h
Sustainability for US$300.0 million ($26.5 bil-
lion), which aims to provide liquidity to the real
economy and partly compensate for the shortfall in
credit flows as a result of the worldwide financial
crisis;
– The Citizen Security and Justice Programme II
for US$21.0 million ($1.9 billion) which aims to re-
duce the incidence of crime and violence and
strengthen crime management capabilities;

– The Road Improvement Programme which totalled
US$10.0 million ($884.6 million) with the main objective
being the enhancement of urban and suburban mobility
and safety, through the improvement and maintenance of
roads.
INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION
AND DEVELOPMENT (IBRD) – The World Bank
The cooperation programme with the IBRD comprised 10
projects totalling US$833.6 million ($73.7 billion). This amount
comprised loans of US$247.9 million ($21.9 billion), grants of
US$2.5 million ($221.2 million) and Government counterpart
financing of US$583.2 million ($51.6 billion). The sectoral
distribution of the loan financing was: Economic Infrastructure,
US$10.0 million ($884.6 million); Administrative, US$100.0
million ($8.8 billion); Social Infrastructure, US$122.9 million
($10.9 billion); and Directly Productive, US$15.0 million ($1.3
billion).
Total disbursement of US$120.4 million ($10.7 billion)
comprised loan disbursements of US$119.0 million ($10.5
billion), an increase of US$107.1 million ($9.5 billion) compared
with 2008. The disbursement of US$100.0 million ($8.8 billion)
under the Fiscal and Debt Sustainability Development Policy
Loan accounted for this level of increase. Grant resources
disbursed amounted to US$1.4 million ($123.8 million).
Three new loans with financing of US$131.0 million ($11.6
billion) were approved:
– The Education Transformation Capacity Building
project for US$16.0 million ($1.4 billion) is geared to-
wards building the capacity of emerging key agencies in
the sector, the National Education Inspectorate, Jamaica
Teaching Council, the Regional Education Entities, and
the National Education Trust that are being established to
sup port the Na tional Ed u ca tion Trans for ma tion
Programme.
– The Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI)
project will be implemented over six years at a cost of
US$15.0 million ($1.3 billion). The REDI aims at im-
proving market access for micro and small-scale rural ag-
ricultural and tourism products and service providers. The
grant funded initiative of US$0.5 million ($44.2 million)
for the preparation of the REDI project, ended.
– The Fiscal and Debt Sustainability Development Pol-
icy Loan for US$100.0 million ($8.8 billion) was ap-
proved and fully disbursed to assist the Government in
improving fiscal and debt sustainability development dur-
ing the global financial crisis by supporting policies for
macroeconomic stability and helping to improve the effi-
ciency, effectiveness of public spending and investment
decisions.
BILATERAL
Under the Cooperation Programme with the Government of
Belgium, a bus simulator valued at €1.0 million ($120.6 million)
was provided to the Ministry of Transport and Works to be used in
the training of bus and truck drivers.
11 The exchange rate is C$1: $80.24
2.5
Canada, through the Canadian International
Development Agency (CIDA), provided grants to 19
projects at a cost of C$64.6 million ($5.2 billion)11. The
bilateral programme accounted for eight projects amounting
to C$53.5 million ($4.3 billion) and the regional programme
11 projects, totalling C$11.1 million ($ 890.7 million). The
sectors supported were Directly Productive, Social
Infrastructure and Administrative. Disbursements
amounted to C$4.6 million ($369.1 million).
The bilateral Environmental Action Programme
(ENACT), ended. Achievements included: integration of
Environmental Education for Sustainable Development into
the curriculum of the formal education system; training of
the private sector in environmental management; and
capacity building in Local Sustainable Development
Planning in the Ministry of Health and Environment and the
Department of Local Government.
A total of 15 Canadian volunteers were recruited through
the CUSO Programme and worked in the areas of justice and
youth empowerment.
The Cooperation Programme with the Government of
the People’s Republic of China provided assistance to
projects in the Directly Productive, Economic and Social
Infrastructure sectors. The programme comprised seven
projects totalling US$562.8 million ($49.8 billion) of which
grants accounted for US$9.9 million ($866.9 million).
Approximately US$8.5 million ($751.9 million) was
disbursed.
A to tal of US$517.8 million ($45.8 billion) was
approved for the following:
– Road Network Rehabilitation for US$340.0 million
($30.1 billion) in loan financing;
– Palisadoes Shoreline Protection and Rehabilitation
Work with loan resources of US$58.0 million ($5.1
billion);
– A Line of Credit to the Ex-Im Bank of Jamaica for
short-term trade financing for productive purposes
for US$100.0 million ($8.8 billion);
– A Line of Credit to the Development Bank of Ja-
maica for the procurement of goods/equipment for
US$10.0 million ($884.6 million);
– Grant resources in the amount of US$2.5 million
($221.2 million) for the procurement of agricultural
equipment by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fish-
eries; and
– A Technical Cooperation Grant for US$7.3 million
($645.8 million) to support projects to be mutually
agreed.
In February, an Agreement was signed between the
Confucius Institute of China and the University of the West
Indies for the establishment of a Confucius Institute at the
Mona Campus for, inter alia, the teaching of the Chinese
language, the provision of Chinese language teaching
resources, the training of Chinese language instructors and
the conducting of language and cultural exchange activities.
 2.6

TABLE 2.3
SUMMARY OF 2009 OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

International Development Partners New ODA Disbursement Sectors for New ODA
Loan Grant Loan Grant Directly Adminis- Social Economic
Productive trative Infrastructure Infrastructure
US$M
MFI
CDB 56.0 1.4
EU 136.7 101.9 11.5 125.2
IDB 331.0 2.3 151.5 2.7 300.0 2.3 21.0 10.0
IBRD 131.0 119.0 1.4 15.0 100.0 16.0

Sub-Total 462.0 139.0 326.5 107.4 326.5 227.5 37.0 10.0

Bilateral
Belgium 1.6 1.6 1.6
People's Republic of China 508.0 9.9 8.4 0.1 112.5 7.3 398.0
Cuba 17.7 2.5 17.7
CIDA 4.2
DFID 11.9 6.5 11.9
India 0.7 0.7 0.7
Japan 9.3 7.7 9.3 9.2
New Zealand 0.2 0.1 0.2
Russia 0.5 1.0 0.5
Italy 0.0
Turkey 0.0
South Korea 0.1 0.1
USAID 7.8 6.5 1.5 1.0 5.3

Sub-Total 508.0 59.8 16.1 31.7 115.6 1.0 52.9 398.0

MTC Agencies
IAEA 0.5 0.5 0.5
PAHO 0.4 0.4 0.4
UNAIDS 0.1 0.1 0.1
UNEP 0.4 0.4 0.4
FAO 0.5 0.5 0.5
OAS 0.4 0.4 0.4
UNESCO 0.5 0.5 0.5
UNICEF 2.8 2.4 2.8
UNFPA 0.2 0.2 0.2
Global Fund 6.4
UNDP 3.7 2.0 3.7

Sub-Total 9.4 13.7 9.4

TOTAL 970.0 208.2 342.6 152.8 442.1 228.5 99.3 408.0

MFI - Multilateral Financial Institutions

MTC - Multilateral Technical Cooperation Agencies

Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica and International Development Partners

Sixty-six Jamaicans received short-term training in several
areas including: information technology, economic development,
agriculture and fisheries, health, security, energy, media
communications and education.
The Government of India provided a grant of US$0.7 million
($61.9 million), to support the establishment of an Information
Technology (IT) Centre at the EXED Community College.
The programme with Japan, executed through the Japan
International Cooperation Agency (JICA), totalled US$97.0
million ($8.6 billion). This comprised: loan financing of
US$64.0 million ($5.7 billion) for the Kingston
Metropolitan Area Water Supply Project, with counterpart
resources of US$21.0 million ($1.9 billion); technical
cooperation for the National Water Commission Capacity
Building Project of US$2.8 million ($247.7 million); grants
and technical assistance totalling US$2.9 million ($256.5
million); and Trust Funds of US$6.3 million ($557.3
million) administered by multilateral financial institutions.

Disbursement for the period totalled US$17.0 million ($1.5
billion).
Under the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers and the
Dispatch of Experts Programmes, 40 Japanese nationals were
recruited and assigned to several areas including: handicraft,
education, automotive maintenance, agriculture, information
technology and sports.
Under the Grassroots Grant Programme, support totalling
US$136 404 ($12.1 million) was provided to the Maxfield Park
Children’s Home and the Food for the Poor organization.
The Government of Japan, through the Japanese Special Trust
Fund, administered by the IDB, allocated US$450 000 ($39.8
million) to undertake pilot studies to improve the School Feeding
Programme; US$572 000 ($50.6 million) to the Ministry of
Labour and Social Security’s programme to improve the lives of
the persons with disabilities; and US$150 000 ($13.3 million) to
improve livelihoods in the Portmore Causeway Fishing Village.
Japan Social Development Fund, administered by the World
Bank, supported the Jamaican Community Crime and Prevention
Programme for US$2.7 million ($238.8 million) and the
Community Based Landslide Risk Reduction Programme for
US$2.5 million ($221.2 million).
Scholarships totalling US$60 000 ($5.3 million) were
awarded to 10 Jamaicans by the Government of South Korea for
short-term training in liquefied natural gas, forensic science
investigation, clean energy development, and environmental
impact assessment.
The United Kingdom, through the Department for
International Development (DFID), provided grant assistance to
three bilateral projects totalling £7.2 million ($1.0 billion)12; one
regional project at a cost of £5.0 million ($717.0 million);
short-term assistance of £0.5 million ($71.7 million); and debt
relief of £5.0 million ($717.0 million). The cooperation focused
on the Social Infrastructure and Administrative sectors. A total of
£3.9 million ($559.2 million) was disbursed.
The following projects were approved:
– The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Reform for
£3.7 million ($ 530.5million) which aims at improving
policing through enhanced police-community relations;
increased detection rate for serious crimes; and enhanced
internal accountability in the JCF;
– The Ca rib bean Aid for Trade and Re gional
Integration Trust Fund (CARTFUND) for £5.0 million
($717.0 million) to assist CARIFORUM13 to boost
growth and reduce poverty through trade and regional in-
tegration,
– ODPEM: Tropical Storm Gustav for £0.5 million
($71.7 million) which focused on repair and retrofitting of
roofs damaged by Tropical Storm Gustav; increasing of
awareness and demand for safer hazard resistant con-
struction processes island-wide. This project was fully
implemented.
– The Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offenders
and Deported Persons for £3.0 million ($430.2 million)
12 The exchange rate is £1: $143.39
13 CARIFORUM: CARICOM States and Dominican Republic
2.7
which is to be implemented over a three-year period,
aims to reduce the re-offending rates amongst Ja-
maican offenders and returnees.
The Community Security Initiative ended. Over 1 000
persons from 5 targeted inner-city communities benefited
from various project activities such as skills training, the
employment readiness programme, behaviour modification
and dispute resolution seminars and leadership capacity
building. Additionally, two community centres were
refurbished, while a resource centre was established.
The United States of America provided grant assistance
through the United States Agency for International
Development (USAID) to 14 projects in the Administrative,
Directly Productive and Social Infrastructure sectors at a
cost of US$53.1 million ($4.7 billion). The sum of US$6.5
million ($575.3 million) was disbursed, representing a
decrease of 41.0 per cent compared with 2008. This decrease
can be attributed to the completion of programmes under the
Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) 2005–2009.
A new five-year CAS 2010–2014, with resources
amounting to US$90.0 million ($8.0 billion) was finalized.
The level of funding to be provided under this strategy
represents a 65.0 per cent increase compared with the
previous CAS. Under this new CAS, five agreements
amounting to US$6.1 million ($539.6 million) were
approved:
– Economic Enabling Environment Improved for
US$1.0 million ($88.5 million) to eliminate barriers
to a positive economic environment; and main-
stream the promotion of private sector develop-
ment;
– E d u ca t i o n Tr a n s f o r m a t io n P ro g r a m me
Strengthened totalling US$1.8 million ($159.2
million) which aims to improve primary school per-
for mance in read ing and math e mat ics while
strengthening private partnerships and improving
the capacity of selected education agencies;
– HIV Prevalence in Most-at-Risk Populations Re-
duced with resources of US$1.2 million ($106.2
million) is geared towards encouraging healthier
and more responsible sexual behaviours, attitudes
and practices and reducing stigma and discrimina-
tion;
– More Peaceful and Transparent Democracy
amounting to US$0.6 million ($53.1 million) to sup-
port the restoration of a sense of safety, security and
stability by reducing crime and violence; and
– Profitability and Competitiveness of Agricul-
tural Crops Increased for US$1.5 million ($132.7
million) which is aimed at, inter alia, increasing ag-
ricultural income at the household and agribusiness
levels; increasing the volume and/or value of
Jamaican produce marketed; and increasing the
adoption of agricultural best practices for climate
change adaptation.
 2.8

TABLE 2.4
VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

Country Disciplines Value of Awards Male awardees Female

awardees
Canada Ocean governance policy law US$$10 565.19 ($0.935m) 1

Peoples Republic of China Psychology, international relations, urban design, journalism US$123 480 (10.9m) 2 6
and information and telecommunication

Cuba Physical education, architecture, pharmacy, health US$17.69 million (41.56b) 14 29

technology, economics, languages and medicine.

India Promotion of micro-enterprises, fingerprint science and US$4 507 (398 689.22) 1 1
technology

Italy Labour law US$4 800.00 ($424 608.00) 1

Japan Crime prevention, sustainable tourism development, AIDS US$145 531.00 ($12.9m) 5 12
prevention and control, coastal fishing techniques,
waterworks engineering and industrial wastewater treatment.

Russia Industrial engineering, meteorology, economics, land US$520 900 ($46.1m) 3 6

management, dentistry

Turkey Chemical engineering US$12 300.00 ($1.1m) 1

New Zealand Law, nursing, film television and media US$197 855.70 ($17.5m) 3

United Kingdom Music psychology, dental public health, clinical dermatology, US$235 227.73 ($20.8m) 1 6
economics, security sector reform

Total US$18.9 million ($1.68b) 28 64

Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica and International Development Partners

The Community Empowerment and Transformation
Project, which is aimed at improving governance through
increased citizen security and participation by communities was
extended for one year to September 2010. Additional resources of
US$1.7 million ($150.4 million) were allocated to the project.
The Expanding Education Horizons project ended. The
project contributed to the advancement of the education system at
the primary level in various areas. Strong emphasis was placed on
literacy and numeracy, integration of technology in the learning
process and gender related learning issues.
The US Peace Corps deployed 38 volunteers in the areas of
environment, community environmental health and youth
development.
Scholarships Awarded Under Bilateral and Regional
Programmes
Ninety-two Jamaicans were awarded tertiary scholarships
amounting to US$18.9 million ($1.7 billion) to pursue studies in a
variety of disciplines (Table 2.4).
MULTILATERAL TECHNICAL COOPERATION
AGENCIES (MTC)
The Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation (CFTC)
provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Finance and the
Public Service in its efforts to establish a Central Treasury
Management System and to the Jamaica Association for
Intellectual Disabilities for Occupational Therapy services for one
year.
Additionally, training was provided for 76 public
officials in the following areas: Results Based Management,
Public Sector Performance Management, Internal Audit and
Financial Risk Management, Managing Corruption, and in
the Legal Frameworks for Information, Communication and
Technology (ICT) systems.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
portfolio comprised a total of 21 projects. The
Organization’s budget of US$0.5 million ($44.2 million)
which was totally disbursed was boosted by an allocation of
US$8.0 million ($707.7 million) from the European
Commission for “Strengthening Jamaica’s Food Security
Programme. Several small income generating projects were
initiated in rural communities, including: Mavis Bank,
Portland Cottage, Trinity Ville, Port Maria, Lacovia and
Magotty.
The following initiatives ended:
– Rapid Assessment of the Impact of the Food Price
Increases on the Vulnerable;
– National Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Re-
sponse Plan for the Agricultural Sector;
– Fea si bil ity Study for the es tab lish ment of a
Grameen Bank Model;
– Value Chain Analysis of Jamaican Dairy and Beef
Cattle;
– Input supply to vulnerable populations under the
Initiative for Soaring Food Prices; and

– Use of Efficient Alternative Cultivation Methods in
Schools.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
allocated a total of US$400 000 ($36.3 million) to implement six
projects. Under the 2009–2011 Country Programme, three new
projects were approved:
– Developing National Capacities for the Application of
Nuclear Science – US$170 000 ($15.0 million);
– Supporting Human Resource Development and Energy
Planning – US$150 000 (13.3 million);
– Supporting Food Irradiation of Selected Economically
Important Crops – US$150 000 ($13.3 million).
Four Jamaicans participated in short-term courses in various
aspects of plant breeding and genetics, pesticide contamination
and environmental management. A national training programme
was conducted in the use of energy planning tool – Model for
Analysis of Energy Demand. The agency also financed the
participation of five public officials in international conferences
and facilitated study tours for three scientists to observe best
practices in various countries.
Two projects came to an end:
– Nutritional Status and Exposure to Toxic Elements of Ja-
maican Children, which contributed to the identification
of the nutritional benefits as well as the deleterious effects
of heavy metals found in Jamaican ground provisions;
and
– Non Exercise Activity Thermogenesis and Weight Gain
in Urban and Rural Adults in Jamaica , which validated
the view that the sedentary lifestyles of urban dwellers is a
contributor to the increase in weight and the resulting in-
crease in chronic illnesses.
The Organization of American States (OAS) disbursed
US$230 000 ($20.3 million) on national as well as regional
projects. A new project was initiated for the establishment of a
Youth Orchestra as a diversion programme for inner-city youth.
Three males and three females were funded for Masters
programmes in educational Leadership, Natural Resources
Management, and International Trade Policy. Two females were
supported in doctoral programmes at a cost of US$233 000 ($20.6
million) in Applied Mathematics and the Methodology of
Teaching.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), from its
regional programme, earmarked US$420 269 million ($37.2
million) for Jamaica’s health sector. These resources, of which the
entire amount was disbursed, were aimed at supporting the
Government’s efforts in controlling the spread of diseases and
protecting the health of the environment. The implementation of
the new initiatives covered several thematic areas:
– Health Systems and Services – these projects focused on
the development of policies and tools to monitor and eval-
uate health information;
– Sustainable Development and Environmental Health –
emphasis was on water quality and wastewater treatment,
food safety, occupational safety in health institutions and
disaster response;
– Disease Prevention and Control, there were projects for
the development of monitoring and evaluation systems,
including control measures at ports of entry; and
2.9
– The establishment of Standards and Systems for the
control of communicable and chronic diseases and
the building of national capacity for surveillance
and response to the outbreak of diseases.
UNAIDS disbursed its full allocation of US$140 000
($12.4 million). The major focal areas were assistance to
vulnerable populations such as Commercial Sex Workers,
Youth and beneficiaries of the Jamaica AIDS Support
Programme.
United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP),
from its regional allocation, disbursed US$ 400 000 ($35.4
million) to projects in Jamaica. Three new projects were
approved primary focussed on capacity building and
implementation of best practices in environmental and risk
management. These were:
the Jamaican Ministry of Health (MOH) Wastewater
Treatment Plants Assessment;
– the Risk Vulnerability Assessment Methodology
(RIVAMP) (see chapter on Sustainable Develop-
ment); and
– the Management and Conservation of Reef Fisher-
ies and Reef Biodiversity pilot.
United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO), from its regional programme,
approved US$470 000 ($41.6 million) to support 21 projects
in the areas of Communication and Information, Education,
Culture, and Science. Support was provided for:
– improvements in the quality of delivery at all levels
from early childhood to adult education;
– programmes in speech and language therapy for
children with special needs;
– capacity building of journalists to access and handle
information pertaining to court cases;
– the preservation of cultural objects and heritage; and
– training of youth from communities in the Blue
Mountains in tourism-related income-earning activ-
ities.
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) provided
a total of US$2.8 million ($247.7 million) for projects under
its four programme areas: Child Protection; Advocacy,
Public Policy and Partnerships; Children and HIV/AIDS;
and Quality Education and Early Childhood Development.
A total of US$2.4 million ($212.3 million) was disbursed.
This represented a decrease of US$600,000 ($53.1 million)
compared with the previous year.
Key policy initiatives supported were the drafting of the
National Parenting Support and the National Safe Schools
policies, revision of the policy for the Management of HIV
in Schools, Health and Family Life Education as well as the
Evidence and Child Care and Protection Acts, and
fin alizatio n o f th e Natio nal Strategic P lan f or
Pre-Adolescents and Adolescents. The portfolio also
focused on capacity building of Government and Non-State
Actors to reduce the vulnerability of in-school and
out-of-school youth to HIV/AIDS and equipping teachers,
parents and community members to contribute to this effort.
In addition, support was provided for the improvement of
child justice and rights, parenting practices, child health as
well as development of comprehensive and targeted
 2.10
monitoring systems by updating JAMSTATS and other data
systems that inform and monitor children’s issues.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
portfolio comprised 19 projects for US$3.7 million ($327.3
million). A total of US$2.0 million ($176.9 million) was
disbursed for activities in the areas of Environment and Disaster
Risk Management, Governance and Security, Millennium
Development Goals, and Poverty Reduction. The organization
supported Government’s efforts to strengthen community and
national capacity to increase citizens’ security and safety, increase
environmental sustainability, reduce disaster risks, and to meet
conditions for accessing policy-based loans.
Specific areas of support included: the assessment of
community transformation programmes; drafting of the
Restorative Justice Reform Policy and a consultative process
towards its finalization; and assistance to ODPEM to prepare an
Early Recovery Plan. Through the Global Environmental Facility
(GEF) Small Grants Programme, six NGOs and 10 CBOs
implemented projects in the areas of biodiversity preservation as
well as land degradation and climate change mitigation.
Agreements were signed for seven new projects: Flexible
Funding Facility; Support to National Development Planning
Goals, MDGs and Human Development; Local Government and
Women’s Safety; Assessment of Capacity Building Needs;
Preparation of the Third National Report for the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change; the Clearing House
Mechanism for Climate Change information; and Piloting Natural
Resource Valuation within Environmental Impact Assessments.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) provided
US$150 000 ($13.3 million) which was totally disbursed on
programmes for safe motherhood; population and development;
sexual and reproductive health issues; the prevention of gender
based violence; and adolescent development.
The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and
Malaria, disbursed US$6.4 million ($566.1 million) for the
improvement and management of services for the treatment of
HIV and AIDS, as well as other diseases affecting vulnerable
populations. The initiatives continued were:
– The support for the provision of anti-retroviral drugs to
persons infected by HIV and AIDS; and
– Public education programmes aimed at reducing risky
sexual behaviour.
OUTLOOK
Efforts will continue to ensure that ODA from IDPs is
aligned with Government’s Medium Term Socio-Economic
Policy Framework (MTF) 2009-2012 through, inter alia,
budget support and interventions targeting strategic
priorities. The engagement with the IDPs, in particular the
MFIs, is expected to deepen as the Government continues to
source low cost funding.
The anticipated announcement of a Standby Agreement
with the IMF in the first quarter of 2010 is expected to pave
the way for support from the MFIs of US$400.0 million
($35.4 billion) in budget support. The IMF surveillance
programme will allow further support from the MFIs to be
approved in 2010. The IDB has programmed US$400.0
million ($23.0 billion) for budget support and additional
resources will be available for investment projects in
priority areas outlined by the government. The World
Bank’s Country Partnership Strategy is to be approved in
2010, establishing the framework for the Bank’s assistance
to Jamaica over the period 2010–2013. Four financing
agreements with the EU, totalling over 37.5 million ($4.5
billion) in budgetary support, are expected to be signed.
Bilateral partners, as well as the Multilateral Technical
Cooperation agencies will continue to provide important
support, particularly for social and community
development, national security, education and agriculture.
USAID is expected to support the revitalization of the cocoa
industry and a programme for tax reform. Also, the PRC is
scheduled to approve financing for the provision of low cost
housing solutions.
In the medium-term, support from Development
Partners will be pursued for the implementation of
Government’s wide-ranging reform agenda, specifically in
respect of fiscal and debt management, public financial and
performance management, tax and education sector reform.
Programmes to reduce poverty and provide a safe society
will maintain their importance in the cooperation
programmes with IDPs. However, closer collaboration with
Partners will be sought in the areas of energy efficiency and
diversification, capacity building for Public Private
Partnerships (PPPs), the promotion of competitiveness, as
well as climate change and related issues.n
CHAPTER 3
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
INTRODUCTION
J amaica continued to implement programmes for sustainable
development (SD) 1 within the con text of Vi sion 2030
Jamaica – National Development Plan (Vision 2030 Jamaica),
which provides an inter-sectoral platform for the country and its
people to live healthy and prosperous lives. Among the achieve-
ments during the year were the:
– preparation of the draft Second National Communica-
tion on Climate Change;
– finalization of the Building Code which was launched in
October;
– review of the development approval process, agreement
on the establishment of a Development Assistance Cen-
tre, and securing of a Caribbean Development Bank
(CDB) technical assistance grant to prepare a National
Spatial Plan (NSP) as the strategic spatial framework to
guide investment decision making; and
– increased use of Web Geographic Information Systems
(Web GIS) to manage and distrib ute geo graphic
knowledge.
The move towards energy security was enhanced with the
full roll-out of the ethanol-ten (E-10) blends (87 and 90 octane)
gasoline2. A number of renewable energy projects (wind and
hydro) were initiated in the energy sector including the
expansion of Wigton Wind Farm in Manchester and
resuscitation of the hydro electric plant at Constant Spring, St.
Andrew. Other positive developments included the provision of
resources to expand the use of solar technology (see chapter on
Energy).
Improving hazard risk resilience was another major focus
during the year. In this regard, the Planning Institute of Jamaica
(PIOJ) hosted and facilitated several workshops including:
– an Expert Group on Disaster Risk Reduction in the Edu-
cation Sector, in collaboration with the United Nations
Economic Commission for Latin American and the
Caribbean (UNECLAC); and
– local and national level workshops for the Risk and
Vul ner a bil ity As sess ment Meth od ol ogy Pro ject
1 While it is recognized that the SD concept embraces economic, social and environmental dimensions, this chapter focuses mainly on
the environmental and governance aspects. The social and economic issues are dealt with in other chapters.
2 This blend has 10.0 per cent ethanol and 90.0 per cent 87 and 90 octane gasoline.
3 http://www.giss.nasa.gov/research/news/20100121/ (accessed Feb 15, 2010)
(RIVAMP) in collaboration with the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP).
In addition to the above, a contract was awarded to conduct
the Coastal Multi-Hazard Mapping and Vulnerability
Assessments Project in three communities: Manchioneal,
Portland; Morant Bay, St. Thomas; and Portland Cottage,
Clarendon. ODPEM collaborated with the Caribbean
Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to stage
the Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster
Management (CDM) in December. The theme of the
conference was “Strengthening CDM through Youth and
Community Empowerment.”
While the country was spared the onslaught of hurricanes
and storms, it was negatively impacted by drought and fire
hazards. Drought affected domestic water supply across the
island, particularly within the Kingston Metropolitan Area
(KMA), and had a negative impact on farming in the south
western region. National efforts in support of SD were also
hampered by high energy and food prices, and the global
economic crisis which resulted in a reduction in the
expenditure for SD programmes.
GLOBAL REVIEW OF SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
Climate Change
Climate change, which is considered one of the greatest
threats to humankind, dominated the global sustainable
development agenda in 2009. There was increasing evidence
that human activities are putting pressure on planet Earth as
global temperatures continued trending upwards. Carbon
dioxide (C02)concentrations, an indicator of global warming,
continued to rise, with an average concentration of 387.35
parts per million (ppm) compared with 385.57 ppm in 2008.
According to the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies,
2000 to 2009 was the warmest decade ever recorded3.
Additionally, the year 2009 ties with several others as the
second warmest year on record (Figure 3A). The change in
climate is expected to have deleterious effects on small island
developing states (SIDS), particularly those that are highly
d e p e n d en t o n e co s y st e ms a n d th e i r s e r v ic e s f o r
socio-economic well-being.
 3.2

400

Mean Global CO2 Concentration/ppm

Mean Global C02 Concentration/ppm
390

380

370

360

350

340

330

320

310
1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010
Year

FIGURE 3A: ANNUAL MEAN GLOBAL CO2 CONCENTRATION

The 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-15) Under the GGND, UNEP recommended that a significant
of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate portion of the estimated US$3.1 trillion in economic stimulus
Change (UNFCCC) was held in December 2009 to facilitate packages be invested in five critical areas:
international agreement on actions needed to combat the
impacts of climate change. The result was the non-binding – energy efficiency in old and new buildings;
Copenhagen Accord, a multi-lateral agreement which called on – renewable energy technologies, such as wind, solar,
Heads of States/Governments to make deep cuts in emissions geothermal and biomass technologies;
and cooperate on adaptation according to their “common but
differentiated responsibilities” and respective capabilities. It – sustainable transport technologies, such as hybrid ve-
also established a Copenhagen Green Climate Fund to support hicles, high speed rail and bus rapid transit systems;
climate change mitigation activities in developing countries, – the planet’s ecological infrastructure, including fresh-
and a Technology Transfer Mechanism to facilitate further water, forests, soils and coral reefs; and
technology development for climate change adaptation and
mitigation. SIDS are expected to benefit from these – sustainable agriculture, including organic production.
mechanisms, particularly for climate change adaptation. The
Accord will be assessed in 2015 to determine its effectiveness in The GGND update launched in 2009, provided a summary
mitigating further climate change. of green investments, reviewed policy reforms and urged G20
governments to invest US$750 billion of the US$2.5 trillion
At the regional level, the Summit of the Americas and the stimulus package (about 1.0 per cent of global GDP) towards
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in building a green economy. The proposed investments
Trinidad and Tobago had special sessions on climate change. included: the restoration of ecosystems; poverty reduction;
The Commonwealth Climate Change Declaration was issued expansion of decent jobs; reduction of carbon dependency; and
from the latter and called for, among other things, a legally sustainable consumption.
binding agreement to address global emissions of Green House
Gases (GHGs). CARICOM Heads of Government had earlier Chemical Management
made the Liliendaal Declaration on Climate Change and
Development at its 30th Conference in July 2009. Another development at the global level was the launch of
negotiations towards a new international legally-binding
Global Green Deal instrument for mercury. This instrument will provide options
for addressing mercury in the environment.
In the context of the global economic crisis, and in an
attempt to direct the use of pledged stimulus packages, the With respect to the Strategic Approach to International
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) called for a Chemicals Management (SAICM), the 2nd International
“Global Green New Deal” (GGND) for reviving the global Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM-2) was held in
economy and boosting employment, while simultaneously May. The following activities towards achieving the targets of
accelerating the fight against climate change, environmental the 2020 Johannesburg Plan of Implementation (JPOI) were
degradation and poverty”. The GGND provides the underlying done:
philosophy for measures to help poorer countries achieve – the identification of new and emerging policy issues
Millennium Development Goal (MDG) targets and the Green for global cooperative and collaborative action. The is-
Economy Initiative. The two-year project was launched by sues selected at the Conference were: (i) manufactured
UNEP in October 2008. nanomaterials and nanotechnologies. (ii) hazardous
substances in the lifecycle of electrical and electronic
wastes (e-wastes), (iii) chemicals in products, and (iv)
 3.3

TABLE 3.1
SELECTED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INDICATORS, 2004-2009

INDICATOR 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Quality of Life
% of Households with Access to Piped Water 79.4 77.7 74.5 74.5 76.6 n/a
% of Households with no means of Excreta Disposal 0 0 n/s 1.8 1.1 n/a
% of Households Squatting 0.1 1.2 1.2 1.2 0.5 n/a
Housing Quality Index 66.5 n/s 67.4 n/a 68.1 n/a

Poverty and Inequality

% Household below Poverty Line 11.95 10.56 10.3 7.6 9.9 n/a
Share of Poorest Quintile in National Consumption 6.6 6.32 6.7 6.7 6.8 n/a
Gini Coefficient 0.3826 0.381 0.3826 0.3826 0.3675 n/a

Communication
Fixed Telephone Penetration per 100 population 15.99 11.99 12.81 13.9 11.8r 11.2p
Mobile Penetration per 100 population 69.32 74.47 85.1 100.3 101.2r 110.1p

Internet use per 100 population n/a n/a 39.6 45.5 55.3 57.1

Environmental
Rate of Deforestation (%) 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
Energy Consumption per capita (BOE) 10.0r 10.5r 10.7r 10.6r 10.7r 7.5
Alternative Energy ( '000 BOE) 1 902 1 594 927 898r 362 439
Per Capita Domestic Water Consumption (Megalitres) 0.036 0.035r 0.036r 0.037r 0.035r 0.034p
Annual Rainfall (mm) 1 816 2 412 2 135 2 108 1 728 1 473
Average Annual Temperature (celsius) 28.4 28.3 27.4 28.9 27.6r 26.3p
Population a
% Population in Urban Areas b 52 52 52 52 52 52
Per Capita Waste Generation n/a n/a 1.5 0.9 0.8 0.89c

a - Based on 1991 and 2001 Population Censuses

b - Urban areas have 2000 or more persons with a number of amenities and utilities
c - Data for December 2009 not included for the 2 largest Wastesheds (Riverton and Retirement)
n/a - not applicable
n/s - not surveyed
p - preliminary
r - revised
BOE: Barrel of Oil Equivalent

Source: Compiled from Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions, Economic and Social Survey Jamaica (various issues), reporting agencies

lead in paints. Procedures for the identification and se-
lection of future emerging policy issues have also been
developed;
– the preparation of guidance for the development of na-
tional and regional implementation plans for SAICM;
– discussions on the financing of SAICM implementa-
tion, including an assessment of the effectiveness of the
Quick Start Programme (QSP)4 under SAICM;
– modalities for the reporting of progress on the achieve-
ment of the 2020 target by all stakeholders;
– development of a health strategy to further the engage-
ment of the health sector in SAICM implementation;
and
– the establishment of an Open-ended Working Group
(OEWG) to assist in coordinating work related to
SAICM implementation. The first session of the
OEWG is scheduled for 2010 prior to the third session
of the ICCM which is scheduled for 2011.
The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of the
Classification and Labelling of Chemicals project is being
implemented through a grant from the United Nations Institute
for Training and Research (UNITAR). The two-year project
which commenced in September aims to increase the
country’s capacity to implement the Globally Harmonized
System (GHS) of the Classification and Labelling of
Chemicals, through the preparation of a National GHS
Implementation Strategy. The project will also assist in the
protection of human and environmental health through safe
use, transport and disposal of chemicals.

4 The objective of the Quick Start Programme (QSP) is to support initial enabling capacity-building and implementation activities in
developing countries, particularly small island developing states (SIDS) and the least developed countries
 3.4

SD AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL
In July 2009, the National Report of Jamaica5 on the MDGs
was presented to the United Nations Economic and Social
Council. The report, which provides an overview of SD in
Jamaica, showed that the country had made satisfactory
progress on eight of the 14 MDG targets, achieving targeted
reductions in absolute poverty, malnutrition and hunger;
attaining universal primary education; and was ‘on track’ to
combating HIV/AIDS. The health status of the population was
said to be good. The areas in which the country was reportedly
‘lagging’ included gender equality and environmental
sustainability while it was assessed as being ‘far behind’ on
infant and maternal mortality and there was an increase in the
number of persons living in slums. Performance on the
communications indicators was good (Table 3.5).
Data from the Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions were
not available at the time of writing to facilitate assessment of
quality of life indicators for 2009. However, the population was
negatively affected by the global recession which impacted the
local economy, particularly the bauxite and tourism industries
resulting in job losses, curtailment of government expenditure
across sectors, reduction in remittance inflows etc. Some of the
impact was, however, off-set by expansion in the micro and
small enterprise sector where a total 3 427 persons received
loans valued at $186.0 million. The average loan size was
$54 286.0. Approximately 32 000 jobs were created from the
loans disbursed by three of the main lending agencies. Female
entrepreneurs accounted for 75.8 per cent of the loans granted.
There were signs of improvements in the quality of the
country’s human resource as demonstrated by enrolment rates
at the different levels of the education system, the output of
educational and training institutions and the level of in-service
training undertaken (see chapter on Education and Training).
Paradoxically, public safety, national security and social
cohesion remained issues of concern during the year. Some
11 292 persons were victims of major crimes, 1 672 were
murdered, 1 006 sustained injuries from shooting, and
gang-related activities disrupted lives and livelihoods in several
communities (see chapter on National Security). In addition,
341 persons were killed in motor vehicle accidents and 52 lost
their lives in fires.
From an environmental perspective, the trend towards
energy conservation and efficiency was shown by a decline in
per capita consumption while there was a move towards a more
sustainable energy mix evidenced by greater focus on
alternative energy (see Table 3.5). Persistent drought
conditions contributed to the occurrence of 9 547 bush fires.
Planning and Policy Developments and Legislative
Framework
The development and implementation of national policies,
and legislation are critical components of the sustainable
development process. Work continued towards the
development and finalization of a number of policies, plans
and legislations including policies for solid waste; medical
waste; waste-to-energy; and sanitation; the National Spatial
Plan; and the development of subsidiary legislation for the
ODPEM Act (Box 1).
The country’s SD programmes are implemented within the
context of Vision 2030 Jamaica and the related sector plans;
the Barbados Plan of Action, the Mauritius Strategy, the MDGs
and a number of international conventions and protocols
governing SD internationally.
National Spatial Plan
The Government of Jamaica (GoJ) received a Technical
Assistance Grant of US$687 000 from the Caribbean
Development Bank (CDB) to assist in the preparation of a
National Spatial Plan (NSP). The NSP will inter alia, provide
the spatial framework for guiding the location and regulation
of orderly and progressive development, establishing
broad-based policies governing development activities
outlined in Vision 2030 Jamaica and other public and private
sector initiatives. On completion, the NSP will be a critical
support instrument for the long-term strategy to improve the
overall development planning process including environment
and natural resources management. The project will be
executed by the Office of the Prime Minister with technical
support from NEPA and the PIOJ. The project agreement was

BOX1: SELECTED SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

– National Solid Waste Management Policy - focuses on cost recovery, operational issues (including collection, transportation
and disposal), waste minimization, regulatory and institutional frameworks, waste processing, public education and
enforcement.
– National Sanitation Policy - Objectives include provision of reliable potable water supply and appropriate sewage and ex-
creta disposal systems for homes, schools and public places; sustained education on sanitation, hygiene and solid waste man-
agement for the general public, new parents and early childhood, primary and secondary students; Sanitation facilities man-
datory in public places; and access to sustainable, suitable, safe, and reliable solid waste management systems in
communities.
– Medical Wastes Management Policy focuses on the management of infectious wastes from health care facilities in the
country.
– Carbon Emissions Trading Policy is intended to lay the foundation for Jamaica to participate in the global carbon emissions
trading market and to benefit from investment opportunities to further its SD objectives.
– National Energy Policy - see chapter on Energy.

5 Covers data up to 2008


signed in August 2009 and project initiation activities including
collection of demographic and geospatial data, commenced late
in the year.
Other Technical Assistance Projects
The country continued to benefit from a number of technical
assistance projects towards the achievement of various aspects
of sustainable development. Among the projects which were
initiated or continued implementation from previous years
were:
The Integrated Watershed and Coastal Area Management
(IWCAM) Project is a five-year project which seeks to assist 13
participating Caribbean SIDS (including Jamaica) to improve
the watershed and coastal management practices in support of
sustainable development. The project has five components:
(i) demonstration, capture and transfer of best practices;
(ii) development of IWCAM process, stress reduction and
environmental status indicators framework; (iii) policy,
legislation and institutional reforms; (iv) regional and national
capacity building and sustainability; and (v) project
management and coordination. Jamaica’s responsibilities
include subcomponent D of component 1: Targeted Model
IWCAM which entails an integrated approach to managing the
marine, coastal and watershed resources of east-central
Portland. The other is related to component 3 and requires the
drafting of two policies, one outlining the establishment of a
water quality pooling system, and the other for defining the
information sharing requirement among government agencies.
In October 2009, the following targets of subcomponent D were
met: documenting of information necessary for the formulation
of a WAMM through participatory process; development of a
model WAMM; and implementation of a model WAMM in the
Eastern Portland area.
Biodiversity Add-On Project (Assessment of Capacity
Building Needs, Preparation of The 3rd National Report and
the Clearing House Mechanism). This project commenced in
September 2009 and is being implemented by NEPA and the
Institute of Jamaica (IOJ). Its objectives include: assessing
capacity needs in the areas of preservation of indigenous
knowledge, access to genetic resources and benefit sharing;
conduct initial assessments and identify monitoring
programmes, including taxonomy for biodiversity; and
increasing the capacity of the Jamaica Clearing House
Mechanism (JACHM) to provide relevant data to assist in the
country’s development of the various sectors and to develop the
third National Report to the Secretariat of the Convention on
Biological Diversity.
Piloting Natural Resource Valuation Tools into
Environmental Impact Assessment Procedures. Approved by
GEF in July 2009 and scheduled to run for two years, the project
will develop natural resource valuation (financial and
economic) tools to be used in strengthening the national
implementation of Multilateral Environmental Agreements
(MEAs); and incorporate natural resource valuation tools in the
implementation of the Strategic Environmental Assessment
(SEA), and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process,
thus facilitating greater compliance with national environmental
legislation. These will in turn contribute to Jamaica meeting its
obligations under the United Nations Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD), Convention to Combat Desertification
(CCD), and Framework Convention on Climate Change
(FCCC).
3.5
Mitigating the Threats of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) in
the Insular Caribbean. The project, which began in 2009 is
expected to be completed in 2011. It is supported by the GEF
and its main goal is to conserve globally important ecosystems
and the species and genetic diversity within the insular
Caribbean. The project objective is to mitigate the threat to
local biodiversity and economy from IAS, including
terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. Project
components include: (1) baseline surveys for species and sites
selection for pilot projects; (2) eradicating newly established
and undesirable alien species; and (3) preparing an IAS
management strategy.
The Rapid Assessment Community Climate Change and
Adaptation Strategies Project was implemented by ODPEM
with funding from the Organization of American States
(OAS). The project focused on documenting observations of
changing climatic conditions by residents of two coastal
fishing communities (Black River, St. Elizabeth and
Whitehouse, Westmoreland) and two farming communities
(Flagaman, St. Elizabeth and Darliston, Westmoreland);
assessing their level of awareness of climate change; the
impact of such conditions on their environment and
livelihoods; adaptation/coping strategies used; and perceived
needs and proposed strategies to improve adaptation.
Financing For SD
Budgetary allocation for selected environmental and land
resources management and related programmes was $7.7
billion for FY 2009/10, a decline of 17.2 per cent compared
with the previous year (Table 3.2). Decline in the capital
budget accounted for the overall decline which was generally
consistent with Ministry of Finance and Public Service’s
decision to reduce capital expenditure to close the fiscal
deficit. The allocation to SD programmes represented
approximately 1.4 per cent of the national budget. Land
resources management accounted for 45.0 per cent of the
allocation, while Fire Protection accounted for 33.0 per cent.
M unicipality
Development
2.3%
Land Use Planning &
Development
(Including Squatter
M anagement)
4.6%
Rural Development
(Survey, Land
Administration,
Settlement & Land Area Development
Reform 58.2%
34.9%
FIGURE 3B: BUDGETARY ALLOCATIONS TO LAND
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT 2009/10
 3.6

TABLE 3.2
BUDGETARY ALLOCATIONS FOR SELECTED ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
AND RELATED PROGRAMMES, 2007/08 - 2009/10

Provisional Expenditure 2007/08r Revised Estimates 2008/09r Estimates 2009/10

$'000 $'000 $'000

RECURRENT CAPITAL TOTAL RECURRENT CAPITAL TOTAL RECURRENT CAPITAL TOTAL

A&B A&B A&B

Environmental Protection 493 863 51 068 544 931 617 409 51 177 668 586 592 506 21 454 613 960
Solid Waste 2 447 111 59 183 2 506 294 1 092 680 1 135 000 2 227 680 717 168 7 000 724 168
Forestry 268 675 0 268 675 250 609 0 250 609 12 8811 0 128 811
Disaster Management 2 0932 55 000 75 932 127 832 72 813 200 645 153 767 68 069 221 836
Fire Protection 2 200 551 59 183 2 259 734 2 383 169 115 000 2 498 169 2 398 145 136 000 2 534 145
Land Resources Management 1 026 320 1 740 576 2 766 896 1 224 860 2 193 314 3 418 174 1 243 360 2 206 797 3 450 157
Total 6 457 452 1 965 010 8 422 462 5 696 559 3 567 304 9 263 863 5 233 757 2 439 320 7 673 077

The 2007-2008 solid waste and disaster management reflect the amounts used in the former Min. of Local Government and Environment and the balance
brought over to the Office of the Prime Minister, Local Government Department
Environmental protection reflects allotments to Environmental Protection and Conservation and to the National Environment and Planning Agency, NEPA.
r - revised
Source: Estimates of Expenditure for year ending March 31, 2009 as passed

Disaster management was allocated $0.2 billion (2.9 per cent), insurance coverage for hurricane and earthquake damage
an increase of 10.6 per cent compared with the previous year. under the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility
This increase included provisions for the purchase of property (CCRIF). Approximately US$57.7 million represents the
and buildings for relocation of ODPEM; financing coverage limit for hurricane damage and US$50.2 million for
programmes to strengthen disaster risk management in coastal earthquake damage. This level of coverage was purchased at a
towns and cities; to repair and retrofit 150 000 homes that were cost of US$4.0 million. The policy is identical to that of last
severely damaged due to Tropical Storm Gustav; build disaster year’s but greater coverage was obtained on renewal due to the
resilient communities; and to facilitate drain cleaning. The reduction of approximately 10.0 per cent in CCRIF’s pricing
remainder of the budgetary allocations went to forestry, formula and a reduction in the days for policy inception after
environmental protection, solid waste and forestry. receipt of premium by CCRIF.
An amount of $3.5 billion was budgeted for land resources The CCRIF is a parametric insurance facility designed to
management. The allocation was made to four major areas: area limit the financial burden of catastrophic hurricanes and
development; rural development in the form of surveys, land earthquakes on Caribbean economies. The fund, which has a
administration, settlement and land reform; land use planning membership of 16 regional countries, provides participating
and development; and municipality development in Portmore. countries with immediate liquidity if hit by a natural disaster of
Area development which accounted for 58.2 per cent of the total an agreed magnitude, until other sources of financing become
(Figure 3B), was allotted to the Kingston City Centre available. The facility allows Caribbean countries exposed to
Improvement Company (KCIC) for the Downtown natural disasters to pool their risks in order to lower the cost of
Transportation Centre, the St. William Grant Park, and the new coverage.
House of Parliament building as well as the Montego Bay
Convention Centre and development of sport and recreational Climate
facilities.
Average annual temperature for the island was 26.3<C
The Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ) continued compared with 27.6<C in 2008. The average temperature fell
to support SD projects, particularly those related to waste and
water management and environmental conservation and TABLE 3.3
management. A total of 26 grants valued at an estimated $79.9
EFJ GRANTS APPROVED FOR
million in F/Y 2008/09 were issued (Table 3.3). This figure
ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS 2003/04 - 2008/09
represented a 47.1 per cent decrease compared with FY
2007/08. Capacity building, which included sponsorship for
the Green Expo 2009, enhancing productivity of medical Year Number of Projects Approved Amount Approved ($M)
recycling of bio-digester water project at Manchester 4H Club, 2003/04 88 300.46
and the preparation and dissemination of Management Plan for 2004/05 87 200.03
the Three Fish Sanctuaries in the Portland Bight Protected Area, 2005/06 46 163.65
accounted for the highest share (90.5 per cent). This was 2006/07 31 93.14
followed by water and waste management. 2007/08 53 150.89
2008/09 26 79.87
Natural Disaster Risk Financing
Source: Environmental Foundation of Jamaica
In addition to budgetary allocation for general disaster
management, Jamaica purchased US$107.9 million worth of
 3.7

28.0

27.5
Temperature ( o C)
27.0

26.5

26.0

25.5
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Year

Average Annual Temperature Linear( AverageA nnual

T emperatu re)

FIGURE 3C: AVERAGE ANNUAL TEMPERATURE, 2000-2009

within the range observed since 2000 (Figure 3C). The trend
over the decade has been an increasing one.
The average annual precipitation for the island as a whole
was 1 473 mm compared with 1 728mm in 2008. The decline in
the volume of average annual rainfall continued a downward
trend observed since the beginning of the decade (Figure 3D).
This trend is also reflected in the fact that the newly introduced
30-year mean 1971-20006 (1765 mm) is lower than the 1 951-1
3000
980 mean of 1 949mm which was used up to last year (Figure
3E).
An analysis of monthly rainfall patterns showed lower than
normal rainfall during the two wet periods (May and October).
Parish analysis also showed that several parishes experienced
drought7 conditions at various times throughout the year
(Figure 3F). For example, Clarendon was the parish most
severely affected, having experienced severe or extreme
drought for the periods January to February, March to April,

2500

2000
Millilitres

1500

1000

500

0
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
FIGURE 3D: AVERAGE ANNUAL RAINFALL, 2000-20098 Year

6 The 30-year mean is used as a standard for comparison

7 Drought is as a long period of below average precipitation which extends beyond a few months lasting up to a few years. This
condition ranges from normal to extreme. Normal drought conditions occur when the average rainfall for two consecutive months is
equivalent to 41-60% of the 30-year mean rainfall for a similar two month period. When the values attained range from 21-40 per
cent the drought is severe, and is considered extreme at 20.0 per cent and less of the 30-year mean rainfall.
 3.8

300

250

200
infall (m
RaRainfall(mm)
m)

150

100

50

0
Ja n Feb M ar A pr M ay Ju n Ju l A ug S ep Oct Nov Dec

1 9 5 1 -1 9 8 0 1 9 7 1 -2 0 0 0

FIGURE 3E: COMPARISON OF 30 YEAR MEAN RAINFALL

and July to October. St. Thomas was the second worst affected sessions. Under an initiative of the National Environmental
parish recording severe droughts over the February to March, Education Committee and Panos Caribbean – Voices for
March to April, and October to November bimonthly periods. Climate Change Awareness, consultations were held with the
The overall impact of the drought was reflected in a reduction in insurance industry and a video was made featuring popular
domestic water supply, especially in the Corporate Area. The artistes.
agriculture sector was also badly affected.
Jamaica, as an individual member state and as a part of the
Climate Change Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) was actively involved
in the COP-15 in Copenhagen. The country held the stance that
Climate change related activities received heightened developed countries should commit to high emissions
attention throughout the year, particularly due to the reductions so as to prevent temperature increases of more than
preparation of the draft Second National Communications to 1.5 degrees Celsius. While the goal outlined in the Bali Road
the UNFCCC and also preparations for the COP-15 in Map in 2007 had been the finalization of an international
Copenhagen, Denmark. The draft National Communication agreement for the post 2012 Kyoto Protocol regime by COP
addressed various sectors including energy and its GHG 15, the outcome was the Copenhagen Accord, a non-binding
emissions; agriculture; health and coastal resources, and human agreement with no specific targets.
settlement. It was presented to stakeholders for their feedback
and review. A key component addressed during the year was the Biological Diversity Resources
National Mitigation Assessment Report which addressed GHG
by sector, and made projections for emissions for the 2009 – Jamaica has rich terrestrial, freshwater and coastal and
2035 period using baseline data from 2000 – 2008. marine biodiversity. Implementation of the country’s
biodiversity conservation and protection activities are
A number of briefings were carried out in collaboration with undertaken within the context of the Biodiversity Strategy and
the UNDP to prepare the Jamaican delegation to COP-15 Action Plan and is aligned with Vision 2030 Jamaica. To this
Drought Indices - %30-Year Mean Rainfall

180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
ec
eb

ne
ar

u ly

ov
ug
r

ay

ct
ep
Ap
-M

-D
O

-N
Ju
-F

-A
-J

-S
-

-
r-

-
ar

v
pt
n

t
ne

ly

Oc
ay

No
Ja

Fe

Ap

Se
M

Ju

Au
Ju
M

Month
Extreme Drought Severe rought
D Normal rought
D Non rought
D onditions
C

FIGURE 3F: DROUGHT INDICES, 2009


end, work continued on the development of the Protected Areas
System Master Plan (PASMP), aimed at the effective
management of these valuable resources. The Plan
development process involved public sector agencies and
non-governmental organizations NGOs). The Protected Areas
Committee, chaired by the Conservator of Forests, is overseeing
the preparation of the Plan. As a part of the PASMP, the National
Ecological Gap Assessment Report (NEGAR) and the
Sustainable Financing Plan for Jamaica’s System of Protected
Areas were completed. The latter addressed three components:
(i) strengthening of planning and revenue generation; (ii)
rationalizing and integrating the national system of protected
areas; and (iii) increasing the effectiveness of protected area
management.
Mangrove forest rehabilitation exercises were conducted
across the island. For the F/Y 2008/09, approximately 700
mangrove seedlings were planted along the Palisadoes Strip to
combat the cumulative damage to this ecosystem due to storm
events over the years. During the period, two critically
endangered plants, Heppiella corymbosa and Turnera
zeasperma were mapped in Cane River Falls, St. Andrew.
Forestry Resources
The Forestry Strategy provided the framework within which
forestry management and related activities were implemented
by the Forestry Department. A total of 28 830 seedlings,
equivalent to 46 hectares (ha), were distributed under the
Private Forestry Programme to 87 participants during the
period, April – December. Species distributed included
Mahogany, Cedar, Spanish Elm, Caribbean Pine, Mahoe and
Teak.
The emphasis of forestry research was the reforestation of
mined-out bauxite areas at three sites: Mocho in Clarendon, and
Harmons and Mt. Oliphant in Manchester. The main activities
involved: maintenance of the forest/fruit tree seedlings
established under the first phase and measurement of three
experimental sites at Mocho, Clarendon; monitoring and
measurement of the experimental layout of forest species plants
simultaneously with fast growing legume species at Harmons,
Manchester; and site visits to plan details of a reforestation
programme at Mt. Oliphant, Manchester.
Three collaborative botanical forays were undertaken into
the Cockpit Country with Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens
(Florida). Local teams comprised of participants from the
Forestry Department (FD), University of the West Indies
(UWI), IOJ, NEPA and the Hope Botanical Gardens.
Several activities were undertaken in support of
conservation and sustainable management of forests. The
more important of these included: 144.63 ha of new plantings;
production of 375 016 seedlings in the nurseries located at
Williamsfield in Manchester, Moneague in St. Ann, Mt. Airy iin
Clarendon, the head office in St. Andrew. Distribution of
249 964 seedlings for reforestation and urban planting; weeding
of 369.05 ha, including young plantations from 1-3 years;
maintenance of 17.945 km of main access roads and trails; and
demarcation of 8.25 km boundaries with private lands, which
also function as fire breaks.
8 This include the presence of seagrass beds, a reef system, and/or shallow waters abutting mangrove stand
3.9
The year was marked by the continued strengthening of the
local forestry management process. The Dolphin Head Local
Forestry Management Committee (LFMC) was established,
bringing to seven the number of LFMC formed since 2002.
The full complement of LFMCs includes Buff Bay, Pencar,
Dolphin Head, Cockpit Country (South East, North and South
West) and Northern Rio Minho. Other activities included:
– the convening of the 1st LFMC Conference in July
2009 with the assistance of CANARI, a regional
NGO;
– official opening of the Cockpit Country Visitor Centre
at Flagstaff. The centre will be operated by the LFMC
as a sustainable livelihood project. The USAID PARE
Project was instrumental in providing funding and
training for this project;
– capacity building/training for the LFMCs ; and
– initiatives to establish two new committees, viz:
Springbank in St. Thomas and the Hills United Devel-
opment Organization (HUDO) in St. Ann.
Public Awareness Programme. The National Tree
Planting Day was held on October 2, 2009 with an official
ceremony in Black River. Several activities aimed at
increasing awareness of the importance of forestry were
conducted in collaboration with the St. Thomas Bee Farmers
Association; Women’s Resource Outreach Centre; Jamaica
Agricultural Society; and The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
Coastal and Marine Resources
The country is highly dependent on its coastal and marine
resources which contribute greatly to foreign exchange
earnings, particularly in the agriculture and tourism industries.
There was continued monitoring of these resources to assess
their status and, in many cases, to identify areas for
intervention. Coral reefs have suffered significantly over the
past 40 years and is one of the ecosystems being monitored.
Checks conducted in a 2008-2009 survey showed that the
reefs were stable relative to the previous year.
During the F/Y 2008/9, quarterly monitoring of beach
erosion was conducted in 34 individual sites by NEPA. These
locations included Burwood Beach, Trelawny; Negril in
Hanover and Westmoreland; Bluefields and Font Hill, St.
Elizabeth; Jackson Bay, Clarendon; Long Bay, Portland; and
Palisadoes, Kingston. A total of 19 sites showed erosion; the
remaining 15 had beach growth. The greatest loss of 12.8m
and also largest beach growth, 8.75m, occurred in Negril.
There was also continued monitoring of watersheds in an
effort to reduce the impacts of degradation upstream on coastal
ecosystems.
Fisheries. In response to the continued degradation of
fisheries habitats, seven no-fishing zones (fish sanctuaries)
were declared to enhance the reproduction of fish populations.
These sites include: Orange Bay in Negril, Westmoreland;
Bluefields Bay, Westmoreland; Malcolm Bay, St. Elizabeth;
Salt Harbour, Clarendon; sections of Galleon Harbour and
Three Bays Area in Old Harbour, St. Catherine; and Montego
Bay, St. James. These sites were selected based on ecological
characteristics 8 , general agreement of the primary
 3.10
stakeholders9, the presence of a management entity with whom
the Fisheries Division may form partnerships; and the potential
impacts that point-source pollutants may have on these sites.
Freshwater Resources
Work on finalizing the upgrade of the 1990 national Water
Resources Development Master Plan continued during the year
and the revised plan is now 95.0 per cent complete. As part of its
water resources monitoring function, the Water Resources
Authority (WRA) conducted 1 347 stream flow measurements
on the major rivers and 3 216 groundwater level measurements
throughout the country. The data are used to enhance the
hydrological database enabling more reliable water resources
assessment and trend analysis of the status of Jamaica’s water
resources. One new automated streamflow gauging station was
constructed on the Morant River at Hillside, St. Thomas. In
addition, five rainfall intensity gauges and four streamflow
loggers were installed.
Partnerships were continued with McGill University in
relation to the Caribbean Water Initiative Project (CARIWIN)
promotion of Integrated Water Resources Management
(IWRM) with the Mile Gully community in St. Mary. A rainfall
intensity gauge was installed and training provided in IWRM to
the citizens to ensure sustainable development of the
community.
Several water resources assessments were conducted
throughout the year including hydrological and hydro
geological assessments of several surface and groundwater
sources. These were aimed at fulfilling government’s
commitment of access for all to potable water and were
conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and
Housing and its various agencies. Sources assessed included
the Appleton Spring, St. James; Pindars River, Clarendon;
Lucky Hill, St. Catherine; Robins River, Westmoreland; and
Howards Well, Clarendon.
The water resources of the Cabarita Hydrologic Basin were
assessed to identify and quantify the water resources that may
be available to support south coast tourism and agriculture as
well as to characterize the water resources of the basin in terms
of its suitability for use.
Work continued on the Lower Yallahs Alluvium to
determine the impact of climate change. The results will guide
any further development as well as influence adaptation
strategies to reduce the impact of climate change and ensure that
the water demand from the aquifer is sustainable.
In an effort to improve yield and efficiency of water delivery
for the irrigation districts across the island, a number of well
fields were assessed. The main areas involved were St.
Elizabeth and St. Thomas where expansion of agriculture was
being targeted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural
Agriculture Development Authority. The improved well fields
and increase in efficiency of water delivery will strengthen the
ability of farmers to produce more in a reliable and sustainable
manner and to improve their standard of living.
Several proposed housing development on behalf of the
National Housing Trust (NHT) were also assessed. These
assessments outlined hydrological issues that might impact
9 Primary stakeholders include fishers, investors, hotel and tourism businesses
development and any potential impact that the development
might have on existing surface and ground water resources.
In the area of Water Quality Management, work
commenced on the development of user-friendly planning
tools/guideline documents for delivery to stakeholders;
including local government departments (ie. parish councils,
public health departments), developers and the NEPA. This
was done to improve the environmental and development
application review processes.
Monitoring of water quality across the island through the
water abstraction permit and licensing system continued.
Licensed water abstractors are now required to submit water
quality data twice per year, in the wet and dry seasons, for
selected parameters. The water quality data for a number of
rivers and wells have been made publicly available and are
accessible through the web/internet-enabled database –
www.wra.gov.jm.
The WRA made recommendations for higher levels of
sewage treatment in specific geographic areas in light of the
negative impact on groundwater resources of inadequately
treated sewage and the increasing risk of further
contamination, particularly in areas of high population
densities. Another activity undertaken to protect and improve
water quality included the generation of a series of zone maps
to indicate the appropriate level of sewage treatment. These
maps will be used in the development planning process in
relation to the design and construction of appropriate sewage
treatment systems. Planning tools for the siting of new
cemeteries; prevention of water pollution from scrap metal
(storage yards); and water quality control were also developed
during the year.
Amendments to the Flood Water Control legislation have
been completed and taken to the legislation committee, which
recommended that the legislation be brought before Parliament
for promulgation. When promulgated, the amended legislation
will give WRA the mandate of regulating Flood-water Control
while the MTW/NWA would retain the responsibility of
implementing flood-water control schemes and the
construction of flood-water structures such as gabian baskets.
In preparation for the transfer of the responsibility, one WRA
staff was trained in River Basin Management and in the use of
hydrologic modeling to delineate flood zones and develop
tools for guiding development on the flood plain.
Waste Management
Two activities of note were initiated towards improving the
efficacy of the waste management programme. One was the
commissioning of a study for the preparation of an Integrated
Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan. The other was
the development of a concept paper towards the introduction of
waste-to-energy. With respect to the former, two stakeholder
consultations were held and a draft report produced. For the
latter, the Government put out a request for proposals (RFP) for
the establishment of a waste-to-energy facility. The proposals
received to date are being reviewed (see chapter on Energy).
Solid Waste: The National Solid Waste Management
Authority (NSWMA) undertook an assessment of waste
generated at the four wastesheds across the island. In 2009, the

TABLE 3.4
AVERAGE PER CAPITA WASTE GENERATION, 2007-2009
VOLUME (KG/DAY)
Wasteshed
Riverton
Western
Northeastern
Southern
TOTAL
volume of waste per capita was 0.89 kg/day compared with 0.87
kg/day in 2008 (Table 3.4). Waste generated at the Riverton
Wasteshed increased slightly.
Medical Wastes: A preliminary desk study conducted by the
Ministry of Health estimated the total quantity of medical wastes
generated in the island at 1 600 tonnes/annum. The traditional
method for disposal of hospital medical wastes in the public
sector is incineration. Many of these incinerators malfunction
due to lack of maintenance or do not operate efficiently as a
result of exceeding noted capacity.
In an effort to address the issue of the disposal of the island’s
medical wastes, the Ministry of Health, through the Government
of Jamaica/World Bank HIV/STI Programme, commissioned an
autoclave and shredder system in 2008 to replace some of the
inefficient incinerators. This facility has a potential to treat
approximately 700 tonnes of medical wastes per annum
operating on a 16-hour per day operation cycle. The pilot
operations started in 2009 and at present, the facility only
accepts medical wastes from public sector health care facilities
and treats approximately 250 tonnes of wastes/year operating on
an 8hr/day cycle.
The pilot operations will help to determine the feasibility of
expanding the operating capacity of the existing treatment
facility, and/or commissioning an additional autoclave and
shredder systems to be located in the western end of the island.
Hazardo us Wastes: The environmentally sound
management of hazardous wastes continued to be a challenge
for the island, given resource constraints as well as the lack of
the requisite treatment and disposal infrastructure. Despite these
constraints, the legislative and institutional framework was put
in place to facilitate the transboundary movement of hazardous
wastes for resource recovery, recycling and/or final disposal10.
Among the various categories of hazardous wastes identified for
priority action over the next few years are mercury wastes,
wastes from persistent organic pollutants (POPs), electronic and
electrical wastes (e-wastes), used lead acid batteries (ULAB),
obsolete and unwanted pesticides, and solvents.
Jamaica was involved in a number of regional activities
during the year that were coordinated and supported by the
Basel Convention sub-regional centre, Caribbean Research
Institute, located in Trinidad: These included:
10 The importation of hazardous wastes into the island is prohibited
11 Number of development applications processed include applications received during the year and those previously in the system
(backlog)
3.11
2007 2008 2009
0.4 0.5 0.5
0.2 0.2 0.2
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.1 0.1 0.1
0.73 0.87 0.89
Source: NSWMA
– continued implementation of a Regional Strategy and
Implementation Plan for the environmentally sound
management of waste lead acid batteries, through the
relevant Basel Convention Regional Centres, for the
Caribbean island states, Central America, Venezuela
and Colombia;
– the staging of workshops with a view to developing a
Regional Strategy for the environmentally sound
management of waste oils; and
– development of a draft regional project, with the assis-
tance of the Basel Convention Secretariat, for the col-
lection and disposal of obsolete pesticides and sol-
vents from Caribbean Island States.
Land Resources
Land management and spatial development activities
focused on improving the development applications process,
the customization and adaptation of the International Building
Code, securing land tenure for citizens, and controlling and
managing squatting.
Development Applications Management
A total of 4 459 development applications were received
by NEPA, a 46.9 per cent increase compared with FY 2007/08
(Table 3.5). There was a decline in the processing rate which
moved to 94.2 per cent with 4 199 applications being
processed from 125.4 per cent. Of the applications
received, 3 989 were directly related to land management; a
15.5 per cent increase relative to 2007/08.
A total of 7 023 development applications were received
by 13 Parish and Municipal (Portmore) Councils, of which
approximately 86.4 per cent were related to building and
planning. The remaining 13.6 per cent were for land
subdivisions. Kingston and St. Andrew (KSA) with 14.4 per
cent, accounted for the largest number of applications
received, followed by St. Catherine (13.5 per cent),
Manchester (12.3 per cent) and Portmore (10.6 per cent).
Development applications continued to be lowest in the
parishes of Trelawny (2.3 per cent), Hanover (2.4 per cent) and
St. Thomas (2.5 per cent) (Figure 3G). A total of 7 951
applications were processed11 indicating the removal of some
 3.12

TABLE 3.5
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AND PROCESSED, 2006/07 - 2008/09
2006/07 2007/08 2008/09
Types of Application No. Received No. Processed No. Received No. Processed No. Received No. Processed

Planning 514 323 672 704 812 781

Subdivision 916 752 769 1 461 1 121 1 336
Environmental Permit 293 104 285 205 462
Environmental License 49 27 113 89 115 159
Beach License 47 33 46 38 202 106
Restrictive Covenant 840 848 956 956 1 598 1 607

Sub-Total (Land Management) 2 659 2 087 2 841 3 453 4 310 3 989

Other 232 294 194 354 149 210

Total 2 891 2 381 3 035 3 807 4 459 4 199

Note: Other includes provisions from the Convention for International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES), Exemptions under the Wildlife
Protection Act, Research, and Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Waste Permit.

Source: NEPA

backlog in the system. Processing rates however, ranged from
158.1 per cent to 66.9 per cent and were highest in St. Thomas.
This was followed by Westmoreland (130.6 per cent), Portmore
(130.3 per cent) and St. James (129.1 per cent). The parishes of
Trelawny and Manchester were the only parishes with
processing rates below 100.0 per cent, 66.9 and 99.1 per cent,
respectively.
Of the building applications received by all
parishes/municipalities, 86.0 per cent were for residential
structures and 9.3 per cent were for commercial structures. The
remainder was for advertising signs, institutional, cell tower,
industrial, resort, mixed use and other. Almost 72.0 per cent of
the building applications were for projects less than 300 square
metres12. Applications for projects above and below 300
square metres were highest in Kingston and St. Andrew and St.
Catherine.
Applications were submitted for three types of land
subdivisions – nine lots and under on less than five acre
parcels; nine lots and under on over five acres parcel; and over
10 lots. Sixty four per cent of the applications for land

1200

1000
# of Applications

800

600

400

200

0
eth
A

e
ny

e
as

es

n
d

nn

nd
er

ter

in

or
ar

do
an
KS

om

am

ov
aw

ab
.A

ela

er

rtm
es
.M
rtl

en
n

liz

ath
ch
.J
Th

el
St

or
Po

Ha

ar

Po
St

Tr

St

.E

an
tm

.C
Cl
.
St

M
St
es

St
W

Parish/Municipal Council

Received Processed

FIGURE 3G: NUMBER OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AND PROCESSED, 2009

12 GOJ decision that all small projects (less than 300 square metres) be processed by the Local Authorities, and large developments
(over 300 square metres) by the Development Application Centre (DAC).

12.6%
23.6%
63.8%
9 Lots & Under on < 5acres 9 Lots & Under on > 5 acres >10 Lots
FIGURE 3H: TYPES OF SUBDIVISION
APPLICATIONS, 2009
subdivision were nine lots and under on less than five acre
parcels (Figure 3H). Manchester accounted for the largest
proportion of applications nine lots and under on less than and
over five acre parcels (26.5 per cent and 34.7 per cent
respectively). However, St. Ann and St. Catherine accounted
for the largest proportion of applications for over 10 lots with
13.5 and 12.5 per cent, respectively. The Portmore Municipal
Council had the smallest number of applications for nine lots
and under on five acre parcels. This is likely due to the
high-density nature of development in Portmore. Hanover had
the lowest proportion of applications for 10 lots and over
subdivisions.
Development Applications Project
Ongoing efforts to improve the development applications
process continued through the Legislations and Regulations
Development Approvals Process (Legs and Regs) Project13.
Some of the main achievements of the project in 2009 included:
– ex pan sion of the web-based track ing soft ware
(AMANDA) within Local Authorities. Equipment was
procured, installed and user-tested in St. James. Equip-
ment was also procured for St. Catherine and is awaiting
completion of electrical retrofitting on site. This will
bring the total number of parishes with AMANDA to
four.
– issuance of instructions by the Honourable Prime Min-
ister, for the establishment of the Development Assis-
tance Centre (DAC). The instructions stipulated that
the DAC should be guided by the conceptual frame-
work for the One Stop Shop for Development Approv-
als that was developed in 2008.
– establishment of a joint DAC Implementation Steering
Committee including representation from the JCC Legs
and Regs Project, NEPA, Planning and Development
13 The public/private sector partnership between the GOJ and the Jamaica Chambers of Commerce
14 The Draft Parish Development Order does not include Portmore.
3.13
Division of OPM, Department of Local Government,
and the Cabinet Office. Set-up of the DAC is to be
completed by March 31, 2010.
Building Code
The International Building Code (IBC) is a model code
developed by the International Code Council (ICC) and
includes standards for a wide range of areas including:
plumbing, energy conservation, building, mechanical, private
sewage and zoning. In 2008, Jamaica adapted the IBC. In
2009, the IBC adapted for Jamaica, along with the suite of 11
Application Documents was published (Box 2). The building
code governs the construction and related industries and
adherence to its standards should result in better quality and
safer buildings and structures.
Land Administration and Management Project
The Land Administration and Management Project
(LAMP) submitted 1 090 applications for matters relating to
new titles, splinter titles, land transfer or surrender, to the
Commissioner of Lands. Of these, 785 were approved and 674
titles issued. The parish of St. Catherine where the LAMP was
initiated, accounted for 564 of the titles, St. Thomas 69, St.
Elizabeth 13, Clarendon 20 and Manchester 8.
Development Orders and Plans
The formulation of planning strategies and development
guidelines for encouraging compatible and sustainable land
use was boosted with the completion of a preliminary draft
Parish Development Order for St. Catherine14 . Work
commenced on the St. James and Hanover Parish
Development Orders.
Land Divestment
The Land Divestment Advisory Committee (LDAC)
continued working on its charge of ensuring transparency and
fairness in the allocation of government owned lands, and
promoting prudent and sustainable land utilization that will
lead to social and economic development. Preliminary reports
indicate that 155 applications to divest government lands by
sale or lease were reviewed by the LDAC. Of these, 90 were
submitted for ministerial approval. Eighty four applications
valued at an estimated $250.2 million were approved by the
Prime Minister. Sixty four per cent of the approved
applications valued $225.6 million, were for divestment by
sale. The main proposed use for lands approved for
divestment by sale was residential, while the main proposed
use for lands divested by lease was commercial.
Squatter Management
The Squatter Management Unit (SMU) of the Ministry of
Water and Housing progressed in its quest to manage squatting
through the following:
– completion of the report on A Rapid Assessment of
Squatting in the country
 3.14
BOX 2: BUILDING CODE APPLICATION DOCU-
MENTS PUBLISHED
– JS 306: 2009 The International Building Code
– JS 307: 2009 The International Plumbing Code
– JS 308: 2009 The International Property Maintenance
Code
– JS 309: 2009 The International Energy Conservation
Code
– JS 310: 2009 The International Existing Building Code
– JS 311: 2009 The International Private Sewage
Disposal Code
– JS 312: 2009 The International Mechanical Code
– JS 313: 2009 The International Fuel Gas Code
– JS 314: 2009 The International Fire Code
– JS 315: 2009 The International Residential Code
– JS 316: 2009 The International Code Council Electrical
Administrative Provisions and Electrical Codes
Source: Bureau of Standards
– strengthened collaboration on squatter management
with the local authorities
– development of proposal for the expansion of SMU in-
clusive of an operational arm
– commenced review of sections of the Trespass Act
1851 that are related to squatting along with the 2005
Guidelines for Dealing with Informal Settlers
TABLE 3.6
DISASTER RISK REDUCTION ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY ODPEM, 2009
Public Education
Training
Simulation Exercises
15 20 or less households per settlement.
A low-interest loan was acquired from the Chinese
Government to assist with regularization/upgrade of squatter
settlements across the island as well as to develop low-income
housing solutions. The MWH will also administer the process
to regularize/upgrade three squatter settlements in the tourist
resort areas of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Funds were
committed by the Tourism Enhancement Fund
Small-scale15 evictions of squatters from
Government-owned lands in several parishes have been
ongoing by agencies and ministries who own or manage these
lands.
On May 5, 2009, The Ministry of Water and Housing
launched the Participatory Slum Upgrading Programme
(PSUP) for Jamaica. The PSUP is a regional programme of the
United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
which was initiated in collaboration with the African
Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States and the
European Community. The main thrust of the programme is to
assist member states to address critical urban challenges via a
rapid assessment to guide the development of immediate, mid
and long-term interventions. The outputs of the programme
are profiles of the selected communities (Montego Bay, May
Pen and Old Harbour) to reflect the national, city and town
levels. The PSUP will be implemented by the University of
Technology. To date, the project start up activities have been
completed and other activities included selection of four
themes for the profiles (Governance; Slums; Gender and
HIV/AIDS; and Environment) and preparation of training
materials and training workshop for focal points and other
stakeholders of the urban centres.
Natural and Man-Made Hazards
Improving hazard risk resilience was another major focus
during the year. PIOJ hosted regional workshops for an Expert
Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the Education
Sector; and the Risk and Vulnerability Assessment
77 Media Interviews
75 News Releases and Advisories
4 Newspaper Supplements
1 541 Libray visits
36 Expositions
4 Disaster plans prepared
Over 10 000 Disaster Preparedness booklets distributed
Shelter management training in 4 parishes
29 persons trained in Initial Disaster Assessment (IDA)
20 persons trained basic disaster management and hazard mapping
Tool developed for web-based and network data entry for damage assessments
Parish workshop with planners and building developers
6 parish workshops for toursim sector in IDA and EOC
10 internal workshops for ODPEM staff
16 simulation exercise conducted including one for the H1N1 Virus
Source: ODPEM
 3.15

TABLE 3.7
GENUINE FIRES AND IMPACT BY PARISH, 2009
Deaths Injuries Homeless
PARISHES GENUINE FIRES Adults Children Adults Children Fire Fighters Adults Children

K.S.A 2 884 6 8 7 5 11 624 395

St. Thomas 822 2 3 2 0 1 49 33
Portland 200 4 0 1 0 1 25 25
St. Mary 297 0 0 1 0 0 61 41
St. Ann 818 5 5 0 11 0 67 26
Trelawny 380 0 0 0 0 0 26 9
St. James 1 084 2 0 28 9 3 152 103
Hanover 486 0 1 3 0 0 40 10
Westmoreland 723 3 1 4 0 0 109 65
St. Elizabeth 1 084 3 0 0 0 0 50 19
Manchester 1 329 1 1 0 0 0 85 48
Clarendon 1 336 7 0 2 0 0 84 43
St. Catherine 2 982 0 0 4 0 0 74 9

TOTAL 14 425 33 19 52 25 16 1 446 826

Source: Fire Department

Methodology Project (RIVAMP). RiVAMP, a project
developed by UNEP, Geneva, is intended to produce a
methodology to incorporate the role of ecosystems in reducing
risk and vulnerability associated with natural hazards,
particularly with the impending threats of climate change. The
pilot project was carried out in Negril spanning Westmoreland
and Hanover and emphasis was placed on the role of coral reefs
and seagrass beds in shoreline protection. The project will be
completed in 2010, and it is expected that the resulting
methodology will be used to improve development planning
decision making.
In addition, several stakeholders including ODPEM, the
Social Development Commission (SDC), Parish Disaster and
Regional Coordinators and eight communities, collaborated on
a draft model for coastal community risk plan. The ODPEM
along with the CDEMA hosted the fourth Caribbean Conference
on Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM), December
7-11. The theme of the conference was “Strengthening CDM
through Youth and Community Empowerment”. The
organization also implemented a number of public education
activities and training programmes towards disaster risk
reduction (Table 3.6).
Fires
There were 14 425 genuine fire calls reported across the
island in 2009, representing an increase of 32.1 per cent
compared with 2008. The largest share of this increase was in St.
Catherine, accounting for 20.0 per cent (711 fires). As in
previous years, St. Catherine and Kingston and St. Andrew
(KSA), the most populous parishes, had the most fires
totalling 2 982 and 2 884, respectively. (Table 3.7) The main
categories of fire were bush (66.2 per cent), refuse
dump/rubbish (11.7 per cent) and dwellings (7.0). Parish
analysis of the bush fires showed a strong propensity for such
fires to occur on the south coast in the contiguous parishes of St.
Catherine, Kingston and St. Andrew, Manchester, Clarendon,
St. Elizabeth, and St. Thomas, those areas most severely affected
by the drought. Some 70.0 per cent of the total number of fires
had their source in some form of vegetation, whether bush, trees
or cane fields.
As a direct impact of the fires reported, 52 persons lost
their lives and 93, including 16 fire fighters, sustained injuries.
Children remained vulnerable to this form of hazards - 19 died,
25 sustained injuries and 826 were left homeless. The number
of deaths increased by 18.1 per cent but impact in the injury
and homelessness categories declined. Overall, 2 272 persons,
eight fewer than in 2008, were left homeless as a result of fire
events. While most of the fires occurred in St. Catherine, there
was no related death in that parish, which also accounted for
only 4.3 per cent of the numbers injured and 3.6 per cent of
persons left homeless. In contrast, Kingston and St. Andrew
with the second largest number of fires accounted for 26.9 per
cent of the deaths and close to 45.0 per cent of the
homelessness. St. James also recorded a large number of
fire-related injuries (40) and homelessness (258).
A total of 67 deaths and 432 injuries were reported from the
1 860 special services calls received by the Fire Department.
Special services calls relate to motor vehicle and other
accidents to which the Department responds.
Fire reduction strategies undertaken were largely in the
area of capacity-building within the Jamaica Fire Brigade.
Staff were trained in Risk, Crises and Disaster Management;
Fire Cause Determination; Vehicle Extrication; Search and
Rescue; and in general management techniques. One hundred
and thirty-four staff members were trained both locally and
overseas. The shortage of uniformed staff in Area IV
(Manchester, Clarendon and St. Catherine) resulted in 98
recruits being trained.
Earthquakes
The Earthquake Unit which is located at the University of
the West Indies, Mona, maintains a database of all earthquakes
recorded by the Jamaica Seismograph Network. According to
the Unit, Jamaica experiences approximately 200 earthquakes
annually. However, most of these occurrences are minor,
having magnitudes less than 4.0 on the Richter scale. During
2009, Jamaica experienced a total of 138 earthquakes, 106 of
which were local (on the island) while 32 were classified as
“near” that is, occurring off-shore. The level of seismic
activity was greater than in 2008, when the island experienced
128 earthquakes, 88 of which were local and 40 near.
 3.16

Most of the earthquakes occurred in the most seismically
active areas of the Blue Mountain block in eastern Jamaica and
the Montpelier-Newmarket belt in western Jamaica. Other
areas of notable seismicity included the near offshore
south-west of Black River on the south coast, and offshore Buff
Bay on the north–east coast.
Spatial Data Management
Globally, development in the GIS industry focused
primarily on the integration of geographic science with design
to support sustainable development, the combination of
traditional GIS data services with new media types such as
social networks and real-time data, and the use of Web GIS to
serve, integrate and distribute geographic knowledge.
GeoDesign, a model which integrates geographic science with
design, resulting in a systematic methodology for geographic
planning and decision making was introduced during the year16.
GeoDesign combines the geographic knowledge that users
collectively manage with new interactive processes where
alternatives can be designed and geography-based feedback on
the consequences of these designs can be obtained immediately.
Web and Web 2.0-style mashups continued to support new
types of maps and geographic analysis. GIS data and services
were integrated with social networks and real-time data while
the Web continued to evolve as a strong platform for GIS. The
development and growth of web GIS applications was fuelled
by powerful GIS technology working in conjunction with
user-friendly client technology such as new Rich Internet
Applications (RIAs)17, geobrowsers and mobile applications.
A Jamaican public sector agency was among 145
international agencies which received the Environmental
Systems Research Institute (ESRI) Special Achievement in GIS
Award18. The Ministry of Transport and Works was recognized
for its implementation of an Enterprise Geographic Information
System (EGIS). The EGIS provides services that allow for
leveraging resources and improved quantification and
assessment of transportation problems. This will assist policy
makers and planners in making adequate and effective
decisions and in identifying and addressing potential transport
issues. Particular emphasis on the use of road safety data to
analyze the occurrence of traffic accidents in Jamaica has led to
the curtailing of fatal accidents especially in the parishes of
Clarendon and Westmoreland.
In the area of spatial data management, the Ninth United
Nations Regional Cartographic Conference for the Americas
(UNRCC-A) was held in New York in August. The primary
objective of the Conference was to provide a regional forum
where governmental officials, planners, scientists and experts
from the Americas and other regions could discuss the efforts
being accomplished in the development and implementation of
national and regional spatial data infrastructures in the
Americas and other parts of the world. Eight resolutions were
adopted by the conference covering institutional strengthening,
funding and supporting Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDIs) in
the Americas and in particular the Caribbean.
GIS Growth Evaluation
Data on GIS growth and development over the past year
were collected from a survey of 36 agencies. The status of
selected GIS indicators is shown in Table 3.8. Of the 26
agencies responding, six were private sector entities and 20
public sector organisations. The survey revealed that there was
a general improvement in indicators related to capacity,
accessibility and availability of geospatial data. The survey
findings indicated that 58.0 per cent of the respondents had
effectively integrated GIS into their operations or business
processes. These covered operations and processes such as
data conversion and collection, mapping, land resource
assessment, disaster mitigation and management, training,
land use management, planning and monitoring. The number
of persons trained and educated at the certificate level
increased by 293.3 per cent between 2007 and 2009.
There was an average of three GIS software licenses per
agency and 50.0 percent of respondents had maintained
Internet map services. Among map services developed were
ESHARE spearheaded by ICENS in collaboration with other
agencies – to facilitate the sharing of spatial and non-spatial
environmental data, and the NWA’s EMAP – to integrate GIS
services and provide basic GIS functionality to internal clients.
Other applications that were developed focused on the sharing
of data to manage utilities, customer service, agriculture,
metadata and the environment. While 82.0 per cent of
respondents did not quantify savings earned from GIS
implementation, 9.0 per cent recorded earning an income of
between $500 000 and $ 5 000 000 from the sale of new and
existing geospatial products and services. The survey
revealed that 44.0 per cent of respondents practiced metadata
management; however, on average, only one person per
organisation was dedicated to the initiative. In addition, only
13.0 per cent of respondents stated that the data shared with
other organisations included metadata.
Geospatial Data Creation and Analysis
The drive for agencies to integrate GIS into their business
processes was reflected in the various types of geospatial data
created and analysis done over the period. Six agencies
reported using GIS to support decision making and analysis in
activities related to electoral redistricting, forest resource
management, disease prevention and control, transportation
management and demographic analysis (Table 3.9).
Geospatial data creation that commenced in the period
included island-wide 1:10 000 mapping and the Forestry
Compartment and Zone Mapping projects. Under the 1:10 000
mapping exercise, five metre contours were generated from the
Digital Surface Model for all forest estates and reserves or
approximately a third of the island. Contour maps depicting an

16 ArcNews Fall 2009 Issue

17 RIAs are applications which go beyond the basic scheme of WWW applications of presenting static pages which users can navigate
by following links. RIAs aim at better feedback to the user, trying to get the experience of a Browser-based application closer to that
of a desktop application. (Web and XML Glossary -http://dret.net/glossary/ria)
18 Special Achievement in GIS Awards are given each year at the ESRI User Conference to recognize the extraordinary
accomplishments of GIS users around the world. The SAG award ceremony is held at the annual ESRI International User
Conference and presided over by Jack Dangermond, the president and founder of ESRI. Recipients of the Special Achievement in
GIS award are submitted by ESRI staff from thousands of organizations worldwide
 3.17

TABLE 3.8
SELECTED GIS INDICATORS, 2007-2009
Capacity 2007 2008 2009
Number of organisations that use n/a 15 17
GIS Services
Number of organisations that n/a n/a 2
provide GIS Services
Number of organisations that use n/a 9 7
and provide GIS Services
Average number of GIS positions in 3 3 3
organisations
Number of persons Trained and Certificate Level - 30 Graduate - 15 Certificate Level - 59 Graduate - 32 Certificate Level - 118 Graduate - 16
educated in GIS Post-Graduate - 9 Post-Graduate - 14 Post-Graduate - 25
Number of functional Data Servers 14 15 30
Number of functional Plotters 14 14 35

Finance $
Average Gross Annual Salary paid 2 182 854.14 1 400 258.61 1 530 108.43
to GIS Personnel*
Income earned from new and 57 000 > 250 000 500 000
existing geospatial products and - 15 000 000 to over 1 000 000 - 5 000 000
services

Metadata
Average Number of staff dedicated 1 2 1
to metadata management
Number of organisations involved n/a n/a 12
in metadata management

Accessibility of Geospatial Data

Average number of GIS software 2 2 3
licence agreement
Number of Internet map Services 7 11 13
Number of organisations that sell n/a n/a 17
spatial data

Awareness
Average number of workshops, 4 4 4
conferences, training courses etc.
attended by staff
Number of persons involved in GIS 19 27 40
professional association
Number of Respondents to 13 15 26
Questionnaire

* Only 7 and 9 agencies responded to this question in 2007 and 2008 respectively

Source: Data compiled from survey conducted by PIOJ .

association of topographic features with forested areas will be
generated. These products will be used by foresters,
enforcement officers and other field staff in forest monitoring
and management as well as by land developers. The
Compartment and Zone Mapping Project will establish forest
regions, zones and compartments across the island. These are
management units and will facilitate proper and more
comprehensive administration of the forest estates as well as
assist in the timely and efficient reports of offences or routine
monitoring.
Database Development & Management
To inform spatial data users and support the execution of
national projects, the National Spatial Data Management
Division (NSDMD) created a database that inventories the
strategic datasets inclusive of fundamental and thematic datasets
and hardware and software infrastructure held by Council
members. The National Shelter Database developed by the
ODPEM was also updated using GIS technology.
Capacity Building and Awareness
Six courses were delivered by the LICJ/OPM and were
attended by 50 persons from both the public and private
sectors. There was a 50.0 per cent decline in the number of
persons trained compared with 2008. The downturn in the
economy contributed to the reduced numbers with
organizations having limited budgets for training. Two
specialized courses in “ArcGIS 9: Spatial Analyst and ArcGIS
9: 3D Analyst” were delivered and one new course “Digital
Cartography” was developed and conducted.
Under the GIS in Schools Education Programme
(GISSEP), a three-day teacher training workshop was
conducted at Shortwood Teachers’ College from April 6-8,
2009. The ArcGIS 8.3 software was installed in the computer
lab and a license for 40 working stations provided. Twenty-six
teachers and five lecturers were trained from Shortwood,
Church, and Mico Teachers’ Colleges (Table 3.10).
Increased collaboration between the SDMD and the
Curriculum Development and Professional Development
Units of the Ministry of Education was evident in the
following initiatives:
 3.18

TABLE 3.9
NEW GEO-SPATIAL DATA CREATED IN SELECTED AGENCIES, 2009
AGENCY DIGITAL DATASETS CREATED USE/BENEFITS

Sugar Industry Research Institute Soil profiles on over 4 000 hectares at Appleton Estate Reduce the time and human resources normally engaged in
field visits and laboratory analysis. Facilitate the
calculation of the amount of lands covered by each soil
type

Over 2 000 hectares of cane lands in he Everglades Estate Facilitate engineering designs, field layouts and reblocking
in Trelawny and New Yarmouth in Clarendon. for more efficient production.

Electoral Office of Jamaica
Under the Electoral Boundaries Mapping Project - 6 240
polling division boundaries islandwide. 60 old
constituency boundaries and the re-defining to include 3
additional constituencies, 227 electoral divisions
boundaries
Assist in ensuring the proper spatial and verbal definition
of administrative boundaries. Serve to enhance the ease
with which electoral boundaries adjustments were
undertaken. Improve the efficiency of the process where
coordinates are used to delineate boundaries instead of
physical markers like trees, walls and buildings

Jamaica Urban Transit Company
Existing JUTC bus, NTCS/other operators and bus/taxi
routes entering and leaving Kingston terminals - New
JUTC bus, NTCS/other operators and bus/taxi
Bus shelters and conditions, Bus signs and conditions in
the Kingston Metropolitan Transport Region (KMTR)
Support decision making in meetings and stakeholder
consultations concerning how bus routes and traffic flow
will be affected by the new Transport Centre.
Used to inform decision making for specific tasks e.g.
quick identification of stops without sheds to allow for
negotiation with shed providers

Forestry Department & NWC Forest reserves and forest management areas, commenced Will assist in the resolution of forest reserves
mapping of existing plantations and newly established boundary disputes and enable detection of encroachments
plantations and illegal forest activities enabling proper monitoring
and management of the forest resources

Ministry of Health
Violence related injuries captured from the Jamaica Injury Maps (hot spots) are superimposed with Homicides and
Surveillance System (JISS). The maps produced are in the other Major Crime data (robbery, rape etc.) from the
form of points, polygons (Chloropleth) and Hot Spots Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), roads, community
assets, communities and parishes to facilitate intervention
by the JCF

Malaria cases for 2009, Malaria rates by community Support internal monitoring, evaluation and intervention
(2008), H1N1 Influenza cases (2009), Tuberculosis cases purposes
for 2007

70 HIV/AIDS treatment sites captured, HIV/AIDS case To aid in the intervention strategies of the National
clusters and incidence rates by population, location of sex HIV/AIDS STI Programme
worker sites and condom distribution sites in Denham
Town
Dental facilities located in the Kingston and St. Andrew
(KSA) health zones.
Public Pharmacies across Jamaica . 17 specific Pharmacies To identify the main communities that these facilities serve
across Jamaica along with a 20 mile (32km) buffer around
each facility

329 Waste Water Treatment Sites To ascertain the influent and effluent quality of
wastewater and how it is impacting the environment.

Statistical Institute of Jamaica Population Density, Population Change, Infrastructure and Prepared for the compilation of a Demographic Atlas of
Population Pyramids (1970 through to the 2001 Censuses) Jamaica. Improve the availability of data to facilitiate
for KMA, Montego Bay, Portmore, Spanish Town, comparative analysis of demographic data over the years
Mandeville, May Pen and Falmouth

Source: Compiled from data provided by agencies listed

– scheduling and conducting of GISSEP teacher training
workshops island-wide; and
– infusing of GIS into the Geography and Social Studies
curriculum and developing a pilot project to examine
the effects of the introduction of GIS into the school
curriculum and improvements in student passes at the
Caribbean Secondary Examination level.
Within the health sector, 32 persons from the National
Public Health Laboratory, the National HIV/STI Programme
and the North Eastern Health Region Authority received basic
training in the use of GPS and Arcview GIS 3.3. Personnel from
nine public hospitals islandwide participated in the Jamaica
Injury Surveillance System (JISS) training sessions. The main
objective of this exercise was to strengthen the address
component of the Patient Administration System (PAS) to
facilitate improved spatial mapping and analysis of data from
this database. Personnel from the Ministry of Health also
participated in Basic and Advanced Research Skills
workshops designed to enhance the analytical health GIS
outputs such as digital maps and reports.
The Manchester Parish Council (MPC) Geographic
Information System Unit (MPC-GIS UNIT) was created with a
 3.19

TABLE 3.10
CAPACITY BUILDING IN GIS

Activity Type Level of Participants Total No. of Male Female

Participants
6 LICJ Training Courses Introductory Managers, executives, technicians from 52 25 27
GIS Training private and public sector
NERGIST Damage Assessment Training Disaster Mitigation and Planning GIS Professionals 32 n/a n/a
GIS Day Exposition Awareness Building Students - primary, secondary and 666 277 389
tertiary level
GIS Day Exposition Awareness Building Teachers 38 8 30
GI Business Executive Forum Awareness Building Professionals from public & 120 n/a n/a
private sector
SDMD Metadata Creation and Strategic Planning GIS analysts/technicians from public 33 18 15
Management Workshop sector agencies
GISSEP Teacher Training Introductory Student Teachers, Lecturers 26 4 22
GIS Training
GIS Sensitization Sessions for Public Awareness Building Technical & Managerial Staff 77 n/a n/a
and Private Sector
Introduction to GIS for Socio-Economic Social Research Methodsand Public Sector Agencies 10 1 9
Monitoring and Assessment Policy Analysis
TOTAL 1054

n/a - not available

Source: Land Information Council of Jamaica, PIOJ

mandate to drive the sustainable development of Manchester
using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Navigation
Satellite Systems (GNSS) technology. The technical capacity of
the Unit was also improved with the acquisition of a 44-inch
large format Scanner and a 280GB business Server. This
equipment has improved the efficiency of the subdivision
a p p l ic a ti o n p r o ce s s th r o u g h t h e s p e ed y s ca n n i n g ,
geo-referencing and digitizing of subdivision plans.
Geography Awareness Week and GIS Day celebrations
were staged under the Jamaican theme “GIS: Transforming
Today, Shaping Tomorrow”. The primary goal of Geography
Awareness Week is to promote awareness about the importance
of Geography education while demonstrating its relevance to
almost any other subject. The activities hosted included a GIS
Business Executive Forum, Church Service, GIS Day
Exposition and the LICJ Biennial Awards Ceremony.
Presentations and exhibits at the Executive Forum highlighted
local and international applications of GIS in the areas of natural
resource management, insurance, vehicle tracking, planning,
road safety and the management of crime, disaster and land use.
Participants were primarily from accounting, disaster
management, financial, insurance, media, real estate,
technological, marketing, security and related disciplines, the
utilities, educational institutions, as well as self-employed
individuals in the field of Information Technology, project
management and agriculture. The GIS Day Exposition was
attended by 38 teachers, 666 students from 27 primary,
secondary and tertiary level institutions across the island and
persons from the public and private sectors. The 2nd staging of
the Biennial Awards Ceremony was attended by 64 members of
the geospatial fraternity and public and private sectors and 14
awardees (six females and eight males) were recognized.
Three quarterly newsletters that showcased the project and
programme achievements of the members of the LICJ during the
year were prepared by the NSDMD. Additionally, a milestone
leaflet was prepared that summarized the work and
achievements of the Council and its members from inception
in 1991 - 2009.
Inter Agency Collaboration and Technical Support
GIS technical support and advice were provided through
the collaborative efforts of a number of government agencies
(Table 3.11). Among them were the collaborative efforts of
the NSDMD, the PIOJ, and the ODPEM to facilitate a mission
from the United Nations Platform for Space-based
Information for Disaster Management and Emergency
Response (UN-SPIDER) team in December 2009. The
UN-SPIDER team assessed the capacity of government
organizations to access and use spaced-based information for
disaster-risk reduction. The mission included a workshop and
meetings with some 15 government entities and a plan of
action was defined towards augmenting the agencies’
capacity.
Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)/Virtual
Reference Systems (VRS)
The establishment of the Virtual Reference Station
network was completed through the collaborative efforts of
the NSDMD, National Land Agency and the National Water
Commission. The network, “Gfix.net”, consists of 13 GNSS
permanent Continuously Operating Reference Stations
(CORS) across Jamaica. Services are accessible via the
internet at www.gfix.nla.gov.jm. The network has and will
continue to have positive impact on the delivery of land
registration services. Three stations in the network were
successfully used under the Land Administration and
Management Programme and resulted in a 30.0– 40.0 per cent
reduction in the time and costs to undertake cadastral
surveying. It is projected that with the use of Gfix.net, the land
registration process should be further shortened. This national
infrastructure is also expected to revolutionize the surveying
 3.20

TABLE 3.11
COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS IN GIS, 2009
Agencies Collaborating Project/Activity Support Provided

NSDMD/OPM, ODPEM, USAID Two one-day Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) Training of NERGIST volunteers with the standard
Workshops for members of the National Emergency methodology and techniques to perform IDA tasks
Response GIS Team (NERGIST) and to undertake damage assessment and analysis
prior to, and post meteorological and geological
events

NSDMD, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries,
Rural Agricultural Development Authority,
European Union (EU)
Banana Support Programme Quality assurance and review services were
provided. Geometric and attribute checks were
done on parcels of 75 banana and plantain farms in
four parishes (St Catherine, St James, St Mary,
and Portland)

NSDMD, Cabinet Office, PIOJ, NEPA Collection and conversion of spatial data to Coordination and preparation of the process to
support the preparation of the National Spatial Plan contract services
NSDMD, PIOJ Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Methodology Spatial data and technical advice re execution of
Development Project (RiVAMP) the project

Manchester Parish Council, Ministry of Transport Road Maintenance in Manchester Digital maps prepared for all roads in Manchester,
and Works indicating their current state and respective
owners to facilitate a more efficient programme of
road maintenance

NWA and Sugar Industry Research Institute Major drainage challenges affecting the production Identification of the location of major and minor
(SIRI) of sugar cane in Southern St Catherine drains in the area to inform the rehabilitation of the
drainage networks

Source: Compiled from data provided by agencies listed

and construction sectors, enabling increased accuracies with
enhanced performance and reliability. The network was
utilized by SIRI in establishing the elevations along the main
canals in Holland Estate, St Elizabeth while the NWA used it to
map the location of bridges.
GNSS technology served as an integral aid to the EOJ’s GIS
programme and has also prepared the EOJ to disseminate
spatial information on electoral boundaries over the internet.
The Environmental Health Unit at MOH also used GNSS to
capture the locations of 329 waste water treatment sites. The
project is a joint venture between the Pan American Health
Organization (PAHO) and the MOH to develop a
comprehensive database of all waste water treatment sites
across Jamaica for monitoring purposes. GNSS was also used to
map all 70 HIV/AIDS treatment sites in the island.
Metadata
One additional entity uploaded metadata records to the
geospatial data portal. Nineteen metadata records from six
organizations are now available to the public for viewing at
http://www.licj.org.jm/geonetwork/srv/en/main.home.
As part of the effort to increase the number of organizations
creating metadata records, a one-day metadata workshop was
conducted on November 16 in collaboration with the Caribbean
Urban and Regional Information System Association Chapter.
Geospatial portals developed by various agencies were used to
demonstrate how a number of datasets were currently being
shared. The examples demonstrated were ODPEM (Hurricane
Dean after effects, shelters), National Works Agency (minor
road network), Ministry of Health (diseases, violence data), and
NSDMD (various datasets) and highlighted the GIS principle of
“create once, use many times”.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
The Environmental Management Division was actively
involved in public awareness programmes to foster greater
awareness of the environment, including climate change.
During 2009, the main activities included the promotion of the
following special days of environmental significance:
– World Wetlands Day (February 2);
– Earth Day (April 22);
– International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22);
– International Ozone Day (September 16);
– International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22);
and
– Environmental Awareness Week (May 31 –June 6).
OUTLOOK
Expenditure on SD and related programmes is likely to be
further constrained by spending cuts in the public sector as the
IMF programme takes effect, and in light of the impact of the
global economic crisis. However, some positive movements
are expected in relation to the completion of a number of
ongoing activities which should improve the framework
guiding SD programmes nationally. These include:
– the Water Resources Master Plan which will provide
new hydrostratigraphy maps of the basins and water-
shed management units,
– Jamaica’s Second National Communication to the
UNFCCC to guide development and prioritisation of
strategies and projects for climate change adaptation,
and
– continuation of work on the PASMP, particularly on
the protected area management effectiveness, capacity

assessment, and legal assessment of protected area
policy environment.
Implementation of programmes towards building disaster
risk resilience should be enhanced with completion of the
Coastal Multi-Hazard Mapping and Vulnerability Assessments
project which will among other things, produce standardised
multi-hazard maps for three communities but which can be
replicated islandwide. Capacity will be further expanded with
Jamaica’s participation in the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO) funded Caribbean Hydrologic Cycle
Observation System (Carib-HYCOS) project. Under this
project, Jamaica will receive equipment to upgrade four
streamflow gauging stations to real-time reporting stations. The
data will go to a regional centre in Martinique and will enhance
the region’s forecasting capability for extreme events. The
country should also benefit from participating in the IDB/WB
Pilot Program for Climate Resilience, a grant and concessional
3.21
loan facility open to six regional countries and through which a
national Climate Change Strategy will be developed for
implementation.
Work should commence on the preparation of the National
Spatial Plan and the development of an interactive web map
application with spatial data and information from different
sectors across Jamaica The draft National Building Code Act,
which has been drafted and submitted to the Chief
Parliamentary Counsel should be finalised and promulgated
thus making the new Building Code legal.
On the down side, continued decline in average annual
rainfall will likely result in drought conditions affecting the
agricultural sector, the availability of water supply, and
contributing to bush fires and associated problems.n
CHAPTER 4
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND
INNOVATION
INTRODUCTION
T
he thrust to wards Ja maica be com ing a tech nol ogy
enabled society and using science, technology and inno-
vation (STI) as a catalyst for sustainable prosperity continued,
despite the impact of the global recession on the local economy.
To this end, expansion of the Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) infrastructure facilitated improvements in the
country’s performance on the E-readiness ranking . E-services
across industries also expanded enabling business efficiency
through greater connectivity and improved technology infra-
structure. In addition, tele-density increased to 119/100 popula-
tion with the bulk of the increase being attributed to mobile pen-
etration which rose to 107.8 per cent.
There were sustained efforts to diversify the energy base and
improve energy conservation and efficiency (ECE) with the
tabling of the National Energy Policy 2009-2030 in Parliament
as a Ministry Paper; projects to develop renewable energy
technologies (RETs) and enhance energy efficiency in the public
sector; and the full roll-out of Ethanol-10 (E-10) blends of 87
and 90 octane gasoline. Other measures to develop and use STI
to achieve development goals included:
– greater exposure of Jamaican students to STI related
disciplines
– research and development (R&D) in crop production
and pest management
– analyses of geological and biological matter to deter-
mine level of heavy metals
– introduction of new standards to effect more energy ef-
ficient buildings
– increased use of technology in agriculture
Global Trends in STI
Globally, STI activities saw a slight rebound in 2009 due to
gradual improvements in the world economy. Most of these
activities occurred in emerging market economies such as India
and China with minor improvements in developed countries.
The BRIC1 countries, namely Brazil, India and China are
1 Group of economies, Brazil, Russia, India and China which are developing rapidly and whose combined economies are projected to
surpass those of the current wealthiest nations by 2050.
harnessing STI to transform their economies and enhance their
competitiveness. Initiatives were primarily in the fields of
astronomy and space science, biotechnology, ICT, genetic
science, medicine and robotics. Growing concerns about
climate change, sustainable development and energy security
continued to fuel research and development (R&D) of
a l t e r n a t i v e a n d r e n e w a b l e e n e r g y, t e c h n o l o g i c a l
breakthroughs in more energy efficient end-use devices and
improvements in conventional energy technologies.
Among the top scientific achievements in 2009 were:
– confirmation that water is present on the moon. This
was done by the United States of Amer ica (USA)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s
(NASA) lunar mission;
– the launch of NASA’s ARES Rockets. These rockets
are launch vehicles that will take astronauts to areas in
space where man has never been before;
– decoding of the human epigenome. This is due to
breakthroughs in epigenetics which hold that the be-
havior of genes can be modified by environmental in-
fluences (for example smoking, diet, stress, prenatal
nutrition) and that those changes can be passed down
through generations. The knowledge will help scien-
tists to better un der stand how glitches in the
epigenome may lead to cancer and other diseases and
may lead to the development of new treatments for life
threatening diseases; and
– successful breeding of the bluefin tuna on land. The
population of bluefin tuna is believed to have de-
creased by approximately 90.0 per cent since the
1950s. This breakthrough could mean recovery of the
bluefin tuna species and have positive impact on live-
lihoods dependent on tuna fishery.
Notable commercial releases of inventions during the year
included the Light Emitting Diode (LED) light bulb which
emits the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb,
using about five times less energy and lasting 25 times as long;
the hand-held ultrasound, Vscan, designed to perform medical
diagnoses; and the Solar Shingle, a new roof shingle that
 4.2

TABLE 4.1
PUBLIC EXPENDITURE IN SELECTED STI PROGRAMMES AND AGENCIES
'$000

PROGRAMME REVISED ESTIMATES ESTIMATES

2008/9 2009/2010
RECURRENT
Office of the Prime Minister
Research and Development 131 206 103 833
Meteorological Services 103 853 99 009
Geological and Geo-Technical Services 19 000 21 353
Central Information Technology Office 25 801

Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries

Research and Development 221 528 260 852

Ministry of Energy & Mining

Technical and Economic Department (Energy Division) 25 499 21 975
Technical Administration 27 775 28 936

Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce

Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation a 121 329 118 453
Industrial Development, Foreign Investment and Export Promotion 700 655 637 689
Protection of Intellectual Property Rights 75 657 75 620
Research and Development 317 673 345 868

SUBTOTAL RECURRENT 1 744 175 1 739 389

CAPITAL A
Office of the Prime Minister
Meteorological Services 15 000 14 000

Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries

Research and Development 57 000 59 318

Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce

Food Storage and Prevention of Infestation 4 000
Industrial Development , Foreign Investment & Export Promotion 50 450

SUBTOTAL CAPITAL A 126 450 73 318

CAPITAL B
Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce
Industrial Development, Foreign Investment and Export Promotion 12 000 53 635
Research and Development 10 367 21 175

Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries

Research & Development 48 000 104 718

Office of the Prime Minister

Information and Communications Technology Projecta 300 000 87 641

SUBTOTAL CAPITAL B 370 367 267 169

GRAND TOTAL 2 240 992 2 079 876

a - This project was formerly under the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce
Source: Estimates of Expenditure for year ending March 2010 as passed

doubles as a solar panel. Research into renewable sources of
energy (clean energy) also intensified with a focus on producing
cheaper and better biofuels, utilizing solar power on a wider
scale, advancing wind energy and making hybrid or
electric-only (battery) powered vehicles.
The impact of the global recession on Gross Expenditure on
Research and Development (GERD) in 2009 was evident. The
GERD decreased by 0.83 per cent compared with 2008 to reach
US$1 112.5 billion. Developed countries continued to have the
highest GERD/GDP ratios with the USA maintaining
dominance in terms of the largest share (35.0 per cent) of total
global R&D spending. Emerging economies such as China
recorded a 20.0 per cent increase in R&D expenditure relative
to 2008 to record a GERD/GDP ratio of approximately 1.5 per
cent.

Countries such as India, South Korea, Singapore and China
continued to be major centres for R&D outsourcing and
innovation. GERD in other developing countries remained
comparatively low, averaging less than 1.0 per cent2 in Latin
America and the Caribbean (LAC). There were slight increases
in R&D for most advanced economies, but despite a minor
slowdown, the BRICs recorded strong gains. These gains
coincided with the relatively sustained economic growth in
these countries despite the global economic downturn.
STI AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL
STI FINANCING
For Financial Year (FY) 2009/10, Government of Jamaica’s
(GOJ) funding to the main STI and R&D ministries and agencies
totalled $2 079.9 million, 7.2 per cent below FY 2008/09. This
represented approximately 0.4 per cent of the national budget
down from 0.9 per cent in the previous FY. Recurrent
expenditures remained relatively unchanged but there were
significant drops in the Capital A (42.1 per cent) and Capital B
(27.9 per cent) budgets. However, the allocation to the Ministry
of Agriculture and Fisheries (MOA) increased over two-fold.
This allocation reflected the drive towards agricultural
expansion and was to facilitate capacity building, enhanced
agricultural productivity, greater use of green house technology
and assessment of the regulatory framework for agricultural
insurance. Due to the achievement of a majority of the project
targets, funding for the Information and Communications
Technology Project (2003-2010) was also reduced.
POLICY AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
The STI Sector Plan in Vision 2030 Jamaica - National
Development Plan was completed. The STI Sector Plan is
expected to guide the development and use of STI to achieve
development goals. The National Energy Policy 2009-2030
Green Paper was approved by the Cabinet and subsequently
tabled in Parliament as a Ministry Paper on December 8, 2009.
The policy underlines the nation’s efforts towards energy
security and diversifying the energy base including
development of RETs. Work was also done on the development
of polices related to electricity, carbon emissions trading, ICTs
and waste to energy. Two draft policies were completed, the
Draft National Plant Health Policy, aimed at safeguarding public
health while boosting agricultural production and the Draft
Biotechnology Policy geared at guiding application of
biotechnology in Jamaica.
The CARICOM e-Government Strategic Plan 2010-2014
was also initiated. The Plan targets the use of ICTs to boost
efficiency in the delivery of government services in the region.
STI CAPACITY BUILDING FOR DEVELOPMENT
Among the strategies pursued in 2009 towards building STI
competence were the development of standards, the
improvement of science and mathematics education,
popularization of STI, and enhancing R&D capabilities.
2 Countries whose economies have been significantly impacted by STI spend approximately 2.0-4.0 per cent of their GDP on R&D.
3 Grades I-III are required for matriculation for post-secondary education and the world of work.
4.3
Standards
Eleven application documents adopting international
codes were published by the Bureau of Standards, Jamaica
(BSJ). Among these were application documents for energy
conservation and fuel gas (see chapter on Sustainable
Development). The application document for the Energy
Conservation Code provides guidelines for energy saving in
the low rise residential sector for the first time in Jamaica and
also offers different approaches for designing energy efficient
buildings. In addition, the JS 305:2009 Proprietary dairy cattle
starter and milk production ration was also published which
sets out minimum requirements for starter and milk rations fed
to dairy cattle.
In order to improve product quality, competitiveness and
environmental compliance, support to businesses continued
with training offered by BSJ in the following:
– Understanding ISO 14001:2004 – Identifying envi-
ronmental aspects and impacts
– Customized course on ISO 9001 Transition
– Haz ard Anal y sis and Crit i cal Con trol Points
(HACCP) General Awareness
– ISO 9001:2008, Process Approach to Implementa-
tion.
Equipment was also acquired by the BSJ to improve
service delivery and testing support to local industries. These
included an Agilent gas chromatograph with mass
spectrometer detector (GC-MSD), an ultra low temperature
freezer, an infrared thermometer, gas analyzer and a plasma
cutter.
STI Education
This section tracks enrolment and performance in STI
programmes at the lower levels of the education system to
determine the extent and quality of the foundation on which
tertiary level science education can build. At the primary level,
performance in Science and Mathematics was assessed using
average scores from the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT).
Performance in Mathematics and Science remained virtually
unchanged at 53.0 per cent in both subjects (Figure 4A). The
mean scores for both subjects remained low, not exceeding
55.0 per cent, over the last five years. For the period,
2006-2009, females out-performed males in both subjects
(Figure 4B).
The overall upward trend in the number of Jamaican
candidates sitting science-related subjects and Mathematics in
the CXC/Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC
General and Technical Proficiency levels) May-June
examinations over the last four years continued (Table 4.2).
All the subjects in the assessment recorded increases in the
number of candidates, with the largest increase being in
Information Technology (IT), at approximately 10.0 per cent.
There was noticeable improvement in the number of
candidates attaining Grades I-III 3 in Chemistry (10.4
percentage points) and IT (8.1 percentage points). The scores
fo r Bio log y, Ph ysics an d Math ematics remained
 4.4

70
60
50
Av. Score (%)
40

30
20
10
0
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Year

Math Science
FIGURE 4A: PERFORMANCE OF JAMAICAN STUDENTS IN MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE, 2005-2009

comparatively unchanged (Figure 4C). The average scores for
Mathematics for the last four years have been relatively low,
remaining below 40.0 per cent.
Exposure to STI related disciplines has increased at the
tertiary level as reflected in the increased number of students
pursuing STI programmes. For example, the number of
students enrolled at the undergraduate level in the Faculty of
Pure and Applied Sciences, University of the West Indies
(UWI) increased by 10.1 per cent in Academic Year 2008/09
compared with 2007/08. During the same period, the number of
students enrolled in the Faculty of Health and Applied Science,
University of Technology (UTech) increased by 18.5 per cent.
(see chapter on Education). At 368, the number of students
enrolled in higher degrees in the Faculty of Pure and Applied
Sciences, UWI, were six fewer than the previous academic year.
There was an expansion in the number of students pursuing
undergraduate programmes in Engineering Studies at both
UWI and UTech. At the former, Jamaican students numbered
71, some 16 more than the previous academic year. Enrolment
for higher engineering degrees, however, remained
comparatively low. The number of engineers and
mathematicians to the overall population is generally used as
an indicator of scientific and technological development.
In order to build capacity and widen the diversity of science
programmes available, both UWI and UTech introduced new
programmes. The former introduced the BSc. in Medical
Physics and Bio-engineering; the MSc. in Forensic Science
and a BSc. in Electronics Engineering. UTech introduced the
BSc. in Applied Statistics (see chapter on Education).

70

60

50
Average Score (%)

40

30

20

10

0
Maths Science Maths Science Maths Science Maths Science
2006 2007 2008 2009

Female Male

FIG URE 4B:PER FOR MANCE OF JA MAI CAN STU DENTS IN MATHS AND SCI ENCE IN THE GSAT
EX AM I NATIONS BY GENDER, 2006-2009
 4.5

TABLE 4.2
JAMAICAN CANDIDATESa SITTING SELECTED S&T SUBJECTS
IN THE CSEC, MAY-JUNE EXAMINATIONS (GENERAL AND TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY LEVELS),
2006-2009

SUBJECTS 2006 2007 2008 2009

Biology 5 053 4 804 4 970 5 005

Chemistry 4 272 4 456 4 735 5 057
Information Technology 9 953 10 633 11 905 13 086
Mathematics 35 476 36 800 37 144 38 126
Physics 3 817 4 271 4 417 4 818

a - Candidates include resits

Source: Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Office, Jamaica

STI Training and Popularization
A number of STI training and popularization activities were
conducted throughout the year to build the level of local STI
capacity (Table 4.3). Training activities were focused on areas
such as ICT, metrology, agriculture and genetics. Specific
popularization activities targeting schools included:
– the 5th Annual Schools Science and Technology Societ-
ies (SSTS) Oratorical Competition with 25 high schools
participating;
– the Science Essay and Poster Competition which had
385 entries, 186 from high schools and 171 from
schools at the primary level. The entries in 2009 in-
creased by 27.0 per cent compared with 2008;
website should promote sensitization and enhance
early understanding of simple STI concepts.
Research and Development
R&D is considered a key factor for stimulating innovation,
economic growth and competitiveness. The main R&D
activities during 2009 were focused on improving agricultural
production, advancing ECE, diversifying the energy base and
enhancing health. Three private sector research projects in the
areas of flavour extraction, commercial tissue culture and
natural beauty care benefited from the R&D Tax Incentive
Scheme. The scheme provides tax exemptions to STI related
institutions for the purchase of equipment and materials for
R&D.

– participation of 28 schools in the Jamaica Public Ser- Agriculture

vice/Scientific Research Council (SRC) National Sci-
ence and Technology Exposition; and
– development of an STI Website by the National Com-
mission on Sci ence and Tech nol ogy (NCST) for
children at the early childhood level. The content of the
The Centre of Excellence for Advanced Technology in
Agriculture (CEATA) was established by the MOA to boost
research and technology in agriculture. It will define the
agricultural research agenda; foster linkages among the

100
90
80
% Grades I-IIII

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2006 2007 2008 2009

Biology Chemistry IT Mathematics Physics

FIGURE 4C: PERFORMANCE OF JAMAICAN CANDIDATES IN SELECTED SCIENCE SUBJECTS IN THE

CXC/CSEC MAY-JUNE EXAMINATIONS, 2006-2009
 4.6
TABLE 4.3
SELECTED STI CAPACITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES, 2009
Area
Animal Health
Biogas Technology
Energy Modelling
Environmental Management: EMS and Environmental Audit
Entrepreneurship
GPS technology
Meat processing
Metrology
Pesticide Handling
Plant Breeding
Plant health and cultivation culture
Science popularization:
- S&T Summer Camps
- Internships
critical entities engaged in agricultural research; and ensure the
transfer of technology and research findings to farmers.
Research projects carried out by the Plant Protection Unit of
the MOA were primarily focused on integrated pest
management and included:
– biological and chemical control of the Beet Army
Worm (Spodoptera exigua) which affected crops in St.
Elizabeth, and an agro-ecological assessment of the
major pests affecting crops under protective cultiva-
tion, namely, mites, aphids, whiteflies, thrips and
powder mildew;
– biological control of the pink hibiscus mealy bug
(PHMB) using the parasitoid wasp (Anagyrus kamali).
A rearing facility for the parasitoid wasp was estab-
lished at the Veterinary Division; and
– technical assistance to develop a pilot rearing facility
for the egg parasitoid (Aprostocetus haitiensis) at Ad-
vanced Farm Ltd, Trelawny. Aprostocetus haitiensis is
a con trol agent for the Cit rus Root wee vil
(Exophthalmus spp.) affecting papaya. Approximately
7 500 wasps were reared and released to control the
weevil.
Diagnostic services for pest problems were provided to
farmers and homeowners. Approximately 400 samples were
processed. Field visits were made to 30 properties and
recommendations made for improved pest management and
agronomic practices. Analytical testing and advisory services
were provided by the Banana Board to ensure food and
environmental safety. A total of 118 leaf and soil samples for
nutrient analyses were collected from 42 farms.
Plant breeding techniques advanced with the ongoing
mutation breeding of sweet yam and ginger using nuclear
technology. This was undertaken by the SRC with support from
the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Research on
the preservation of sweet potato and Scotch Bonnet pepper
4 Curing involved incubating the sweet potatoes at 30oC and 90 per cent relative humidity over a seven day period.
No. of persons trained Responsible Agency
80 Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries
21 SRC
12 Ministry of Energy & Mining
25 Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica
26 NCST, Caribbean Council for Science &
Technology, Organization of American
States
80 RADA
15 SRC
53 BSJ
92 Banana Board
3 SRC and IAEA
2 160 Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries, RADA
128 SRC, BSJ
13 SRC, NCST
Source: Compiled from data presented by agencies
germ plasm continued with the initiation of plants into culture.
Approximately 1 500 tissue cultured plantlets and 320 ginger
clusters were supplied to local farmers by the SRC.
Additionally, ongoing monitoring of developments in the
transgenic research work on solo papaya and West Indian sea
island cotton were undertaken by the National Biosafety
Committee of the NCST.
Work on improving post-harvest techniques for sweet
potato was sustained by Caribbean Agricultural Research and
Development Institute (CARDI). Experiments were carried
out to evaluate the effects of curing4, fungicide treatment and
variety on the shelf life of sweet potatoes. Parameters
measured included moisture loss, sprouting and pest
infestation. The results indicated that after 140 days in storage,
cured sweet potatoes recorded 6.0 per cent less weight loss than
those that were uncured. Differences in weight loss were also
recorded among the varieties (Clarendon, Eustace, Fire on
Land, Ms Mac and Quarter Million). Overall, the Clarendon
variety stored best under the treatment conditions. Further
experiments will involve proximate and sensory analyses at
selected stages of storage to assess the nutritional content of the
sweet potatoes as well as consumer acceptability.
The continued development of technical packages for the
commercial production of Cerasee (Momordica charantia L),
Red Sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa), Blackmint (Mentha spicata,
syn M. viridis), Peppermint (Satureja vimenia) and
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) was undertaken by the
Caribbean Agricultural and Development Institute (CARDI).
Activities in 2009 concentrated on harvesting, drying, and
regrowth of various species. Overal, only the Lemon Grass and
Cersasseapproached economically acceptable yields.This
could be due in part to the extremely dry conditions over the
year, as well as to the soil and other ecological growing
conditions. The Lemongrass plots were harvested three times
with yields of 9 182 kg/ha, 3 250 kg/ha and 2 207 kg/ha,
respectively. The dried weight yield for Cerasee was 1 139
kg/ha and 1 554 kg/ha in the two harvests for the year. The

species are to be established at a new location in Manchester
where conditions are cooler to conduct further investigations
into economic viability.
Energy
Several initiatives were pursued during the year to diversify
the energy mix, develop renewable energy and improve energy
efficiency with focus on renewables. Among these were the
island-wide roll out of the Ethanol-10 (E-10) 87 and 90-octane
gasoline blends; re-opening of the 0.77 megawatt hydro-electric
plant at Constant Spring; the completion of a feasibility review
for the Back Rio Grande hydro project and the launch of energy
efficiency projects targeting the public sector (see chapter on
Energy, Electricity and Water).
Health
Two new deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) related services,
namely the DNA-based prenatal screening (to test for genetic
disorders in the unborn child) and DNA testing for the Human
Papiloma virus (HPV), Chlamydia and Gonorrhea were
introduced by CARIGEN. Work towards developing Glycemic
Indices (GI)5 of Jamaican foods continued with proximate
analyses6 being completed for six fruits (black mango; otaheite
apple; pineapple; melon; jew plum and guava) and the GI for the
black mango being determined by the SRC. Determination of
the GIs for foods is expected to contribute to the development of
low GI products. In addition, proximate analyses were done on
ackee, gungo peas and carrot. The SRC also developed two local
teas with functional properties. Validation studies on their safety
and efficacy are being carried out.
In order to improve food quality standards and agricultural
productivity, research continued at the International Centre for
Environmental and Nuclear Sciences (ICENS) on the
determination of heavy metals7 in geological (soils, rocks) and
biological matter (plant material, food and human tissue).
Neutron activation analysis (NAA) was done on 372 samples.
This analysis is a nuclear process to determine certain
concentrations of elements in a variety of materials. The
concentrations of lead in 54 human blood samples were also
assessed. The results showed that although the lead
concentrations were slightly elevated they did not exceed the
acceptable limit of 25u/dl.
TECHNOLOGY USE AND TRANSFER
Support by Public STI Agencies
The public STI agencies were involved to varying degrees in
the use and transfer of technology and the sharing of scientific
expertise. Twenty-one food formulations were supplied to
micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by the SRC.
Over 40 clients were assisted in food processing which mainly
5 GI is a measure of the effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels.
6 Proximate analysis is a technique used to determine the constituents of food.
7 These include cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury and zinc.
8 Scoring criteria for the EIU’s E-readiness rankings are connectivity and technological infrastructure, business environment, social
and cultural environment, legal environment, government policy and vision, and consumer and business adoption.
9 EIU assesses the E-readiness of a total of 70 countries.
10 NRI measures three components: the degree to which a national environment is conducive to ICT development and diffusion; the
extent to which key stakeholders (individuals, businesses, and governments) are prepared to use ICT and the actual usage of ICT
amongst these stakeholders.
4.7
focused on dehydration and juice making; jams and dressings;
chips and drying of fruits; and other crops. Seven clients used
the SRC’s food pilot plant for drying, milling or grinding and
in the production of sauces, seasoning and drinks.
The Jamaica Agricultural Marketing Information
System (JAMIS) was developed as part of the on-going thrust
by the MAF to modernize the agricultural sector through the
application of technology. JAMIS is to be used to collect,
compile and disseminate agricultural pricing data at all levels
of the market chain, to aid clients in the sale and purchase of
agricultural produce locally and internationally.
Initiatives implemented towards improved waste
management included the completion of eight anaerobic
wastewater treatment systems by the SRC. Six of these were
commissioned within the residential and industrial sectors.
ESHARE, a digital database for the provision of
information on Jamaica’s environment, was initiated by
ICENS in collaboration with the Environmental Management
Division, Office of the Prime Minister; Faculty of Pure and
Applied Sciences, UWI; and the MOA. Upon completion, a
variety of agencies will be able to use the database to access
information on the environment.
E-Readiness
Improved performance on the scoring criteria 8 of
connectivity, cultural environment, and government policy
and vision led to Jamaica moving up five places to 44 on the
Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) E-readiness ranking9 in
2009. The country attained a score of 5.33/10 which exceeded
the average for LAC countries (5.10), but remained closer to
the average ranking attained by the Middle East and Africa.
The only other LAC country in the ranking was Trinidad &
Tobago which also moved up four places to 46. Denmark
overtook the USA to top the ranking.
Of a total of 134 countries, Jamaica ranked 53 on the
Global Information Technology Report 2008/09, Network
Readiness Index10 (NRI). The country slipped seven places
c o m p a r e d w i t h t h e p r e v i o u s y e a r ( Ta b l e 4 . 4 ) .
Notwithstanding, the population’s access to the Internet
increased by two percentage points to 57.1 per cent (Table
4.5). Broadband subscribers totalled 112 299, representing a
penetration rate of approximately 4.2 per cent. The proportion
of households with computers and internet connection was
12.02 per cent with approximately two-thirds being in the
Kingston Metropolitan Area (KMA). The Internet penetration
rate represents the percentage of the population who has
access to and uses the Internet.
The level of tele-density in Jamaica continued to increase
reaching 119/100 population in 2009. As has been the trend
over the last five years, growth in mobile subscriptions
accounted for most of the increase. The number of mobile
 4.8

TABLE 4.4
JAMAICA'S PERFORMANCE IN THE NETWORK READINESS INDEX, 2004-2009

Region/Country 2004 2005 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

Rank
Asia
Hong Kong 7 11 12 11 12
Japan 8 16 14 19 17
Singapore 1 2 3 5 4

Europe
Denmark 4 3 1 1 1
Finland 3 5 4 6 6
Iceland 2 4 8 8 7

Latin America and the Caribbean

Brazil 46 52 53 59 59
Chile 35 29 31 34 39
Barbados na na 40 38 36
Jamaica 49 54 45 46 53
Trinidad and Tobago 59 74 68 82 81
Dominican Republic 78 89 66 75 75

North America
Canada 10 6 11 13 10
United States 5 1 7 4 3

Africa
Tunisia 31 36 35 35 38
South Africa 34 37 47 51 52

Total number of countries in ranking 104 115 122 127 134

na - not available

Source: Global Information Technology Report, 2008/09

phone subscriptions increased to 2.91 million, some 186 592 E-Government

(6.9 per cent) more than in 2008. This yielded a mobile
penetration rate of 107.8 per cent, 9.2 percentage points greater
than the previous year (Table 4.6). The mobile penetration rate
continued to reflect the fact that some subscribers may have
accounts with the three major subscribers. The growth in ICTs
also facilitated the introduction of Third Generation (3G)
wireless technology in the telecommunications market. The
technology allows for wireless voice telephony, video calls, and
wireless data at higher bit rates (up to 14 Mbits/s on the
downlink and 5.8 Mbits/s uplink) in a mobile environment.
The proliferation of ICTs has been contributing to
improvements in business efficiency and customer satisfaction,
as well as to lower processing time and cost within the financial
sector and across other industries. In the financial sector the
total number of Automated Banking Machines (ABMs) in the
country increased to 531, a 6.8 per cent rise relative to 2008
(Table 4.7). Over the last five years (2005-2009) the number of
ABMs has increased by 32.8 per cent. The majority of the
ABMs continue to be located in St. Andrew (34.1 per cent), St.
Catherine (15.0 per cent) and St. James (10.4 per cent),
coinciding with areas of relatively high urban population and
centres of commerce (Appendix 4A). ICT is also being used to
improve the delivery of education, and insecurity devices,
among other things.
Advances were made by the Government of Jamaica (GOJ)
in providing greater inter-government connectivity and
interface between the government and citizens. This is
reflected in a number of public sector entities maintaining
online presence and providing online services. These entities
include the Inland Revenue Department, the Registrar’s
General Department, the National Housing Trust, Jamaica
Customs, Jamaica Trade Board and the Jamaica Trade and
Invest. Among the achievements for the year were the
establishment of the Trade Board Information System; the
installation of two additional Community Access Points
(CAPS) bringing the total to 12; and the expansion of the Tax
Reminder System (TAXREM) by the Tax Administration
Services Department. TAXREM automatically sends text
message reminders and notices with respect to expiry of
certificates related to motor vehicle registration, fitness, tax
compliance, among others.
Other online services introduced by the GOJ in 2009 were
for Pay As You Earn (PAYE); National Insurance (NIS) and
Education Tax payments. Since October 2008, online services
for the filing and payment of General Consumption Tax (GCT)
and Special Consumption Tax (SCT) have been offered
through the online tax portal. Approximately 20 000 users have
utilized the tax portal since it was introduced in 2004 and some
$1.8 billion were collected for FY 2008/09. The ongoing
improvements in E-Government services reflects the GOJ’s
 4.9

pharmaceutical products and originated mainly in the USA

TABLE 4.5 and Germany. Over the last 10 years (2000-2009), 118 patent
INTERNET PEN E TRA TION IN JA MAICA, applications were submitted for Jamaican inventions. Of this
SELECTED YEARS 2000-2009 number, just under one-half were granted. The number of
applications over the period represents approximately 45
Year Users (mill.) % Penetration patents11 per million population, an average of 4.5 per
million/annum. Local filings were 10.8 per cent of total
2000 0.06 2.3 applications filed for 2004-2009. This can be compared with
2002 0.6 22.4 domestic filings of approximately 20.0 per cent in India over
2006 1.07 39.6 the same period. The low domestic or resident patent filings is
2007 1.23 45.5 partly reflective of the consistently low GERD and also
2008 1.5 55.3 contributes to the country having a low patent intensity ratio.
2009 1.54 57.1
Source: InternationalTelecommunications Union Under the National Quality Awards (NQA) Programme,
administered by the BSJ, three major awards were made to
local businesses in 2009 in the categories of excellence in
drive to improve efficiency and service delivery though the use manufacturing, service and small business, respectively.
of ICTs. Awards were also made in five sub-categories: organizational
All public libraries across Jamaica now provide facilities for focus, process management, human resource focus, business
public access to the internet through funding from the Universal results and customer-focus. The NQA Programme is
Access Fund. Nineteen libraries were also provided with results-driven and recognizes and awards Jamaican
specialized software for the hearing impaired. companies that demonstrate excellent quality systems in the
production of goods and the delivery of services.
E-learning Project A team of young Jamaican scientists won the Young
Inventors Award (Upper Junior Category) in the Caribbean
The use of ICT to enhance the teaching/learning process was Young Inventors Innovation and Invention Competition held
expanded during the review period. Under the E-learning in Trinidad & Tobago. Of a total of 18 teams, the Jamaican
project aimed at delivering quality education through the use of team won for their creation of an organic insecticide from the
ICT, computer equipment and networks were installed in 162 castor plant. In the Seniors Category, Jamaica placed third for
public high schools and eight teachers colleges. In addition, 40 the work done on producing ethanol from King Grass. A team
video lectures were produced, 10 each for English Language, from Northern Caribbean University (NCU) won the
Biology, Mathematics and IT. The lectures were uploaded to the Microsoft Imagine Cup for the LAC region. Instructed to
e-LJam web-site and also delivered to schools on DVDs. develop software to address one of the eight Millennium
Audiovisual equipment was delivered to 162 of 166 project Development Goals (MDGs) by Microsoft, the NCU team
schools, eight teacher colleges, five community colleges and six developed software to address MDG 1 which focuses on
special schools (students with learning and physical disabilities) eradicating extreme poverty and hunger.
(see chapter on Education).
PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION
INNOVATION
There was continued partnership among BSJ, SRC and the
Compared with 2008, the number of patent applications Association of Science Teachers of Jamaica (ASTJ) in
received by the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) in spon sorin g science r elated activities such as the
2009 fell by 7.4 per cent to 126 (Table 4.8). Patent standardization summer camps, essay and poster competitions
applications/filings are indicators of innovation, research and and science quizzes. Development of an energy database and
technological developments. Patenting represents the status of energy modeling advanced through collaboration between the
local invention activities and also the introduction of new Ministry of Energy and Mining and two universities, UWI and
products and processes into a local market from foreign UTech. It is expected that this ongoing collaboration will
countries. The majority of the patent applications was for

TABLE 4.6
TELE-DENSITY IN JAMAICA, 2005-2009
Year Population Landlines Mobile Total % Fixed line Penetration % Mobile Penetration

2005 2 660 700 319 000 1 981 464 2 300 464 11.99 74.47
2006 2 673 800 342 692r 2 274 650 2 617 342r 12.82r 85.1
2007 2 683 300 369 656r 2 684 331 3 053 987r 13.78r 100.03r
2008 2 692 400 316 591r 2 723 323r 3 039 914r 11.8r 101.2r
2009 2 698 800 302 336p 2 909 915p 3 212 251p 11.2p 107.8p
p - preliminary
r - revised
Source: Office of Utilities Regulations and STATIN

11 Figure based on the number of patent applications.

 4.10

TABLE 4.7
CUMULATIVE NUMBER OF AUTOMATED BANKING MACHINES BY PARISH, 2005-2009
Parish 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

St. Andrew 133 151 152 166 181

St. Catherine 57 67 70 74 80
St. James 46 52 52 53 55
St. Ann 32 36 37 42 42
Westmoreland 19 21 23 24 24
Manchester 19 21 24 26 27
Kingston 18 18 18 18 20
Clarendon 19 20 20 22 25
St. Elizabeth 14 14 17 20 22
St. Mary 11 13 13 13 14
Hanover 7 8 9 11 13
Portland 6 6 6 7 8
Trelawny 6 7 7 7 8
St. Thomas 4 7 7 8 9
Blanka 1 1 6 8 3

Total 400 452 458 499 531

a - ABMs not assigned to any parish on database

Source: JETS Limited

provide university students with exposure to the field of energy
as well as help to bridge capacity gaps in the Ministry. Efforts to
improve innovation in the wider Caribbean were bolstered with
the Caribbean Council for Science and Technology (CCST), the
Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation, the
NCST and the UWI partnering to build regional capacity in
research and innovation in agriculture. The NCST also
collaborated with Spain, Germany, Trinidad and Tobago and St.
Lucia to implement the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)
Science and Technology Programme – Caribbean Welcome
Project designed to strengthen STI capacity in the Caribbean.
The partnership to develop the small ruminant industry in the
region continued among CARDI, Alumina Partners of Jamaica, the
MAF and farmers. Activities undertaken during 2009 involved the
development and provision of improved breeding stock,
development of sustainable feeds and feeding systems, the transfer
of developed technologies, and monitoring the progress of the
industry.
OUTLOOK
It is expected that expenditure on STI might decline given
Jamaica’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) and related strictures, especially with respect to capital
TABLE 4.8
PATENTS FILED AND GRANTED IN JAMAICA TO SELECTED COUNTRIES, 2004-2009
Country Applications Granted Applications Granted Applications Granted Applications Granted Applications Granted Applications Granted
2004 2005 2006
budgets under which most of STI allocations fall. Despite this,
the expansion and use of ICTs to improve and deliver high
quality services in the public and private sectors should
continue facilitated by increasing access to broadband
services. Enhancement of government services should also be
realized with strategies to boost E-Government at the national
as well as the local levels. The country’s focus on enhancing
the ICT infrastructure should also lead to further
improvements in E-readiness performance.
With agriculture being a national priority, R&D should
continue to improve crop and livestock production and food
quality. The sector should benefit from greater use of
technology and access to data through the Centre of Excellence
for Advanced Technology in Agriculture. With the tabling of
the Energy Policy 2009-2030 and the commencement of a
number of energy projects, efforts are expected to be
concentrated on improving ECE, development of renewable
energy and further diversification of the energy base. The
all-island roll-out of E-10 87 and 90 octane gasoline coupled
with the expected use of renewables should result in reduction
in the country’s expenditure on imported fuel providing global
oil prices remain stable. n
2007 2008 2009

Jamaica 10 2 10 9 21 9 6 6 15 0 16 3
United 23 3 31 12 68 13 56 11 23 30 54 8
States
Canada 3 1 0 2 2 1 4 1 32 0 2 2
Germany 13 4 7 8 12 1 17 0 3 0 20 3
England 8 1 7 1 17 7 25 7 25 8 0 11
Other 15 4 14 10 47 12 55 9 38 10 34 23

Total 72 15 69 42 153 43 163 34 136 48 126 50

Source: Jamaica Intellectual Property Office

 5.1 5.1

CHAPTER 5

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT

INTRODUCTION services was constrained by a 11.4 per cent decline in

F or 2009, real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the

Jamaican econ omy con tracted by an es ti mated 2.7 per
cent to $490 842.3 million (Figure 5A and Table 5.1) representing
the second consecutive annual decline1. This performance com-
pared unfavourably with an annual average real GDP growth of
1.1 per cent recorded for the 2004–2008 period. During the review
period, declines of 8.5 per cent and 0.6 per cent were estimated for
the Goods Producing and Services Industries, respectively. All
Goods Producing Industries recorded lower real value added, with
the exception of Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing which increased
by 12.1 per cent. The Mining & Quarrying industry recorded the
largest decline in real value added (50.2 per cent), stemming
mainly from the closure of three alumina plants due to reduced
global alumina demand. With respect to the Services Industry,
Transport, Storage & Communication registered the largest reduc-
tion in real value added, declining by 4.4 per cent.
The Jamaican economy operated in a challenging
macroeconomic environment due to the adverse effects of the
global economic and financial crisis which intensified during the
last quarter of 2008. Both global and domestic demand were weak
and translated into a decline in economic activity. Domestic
demand contracted in response to a decline in both business and
consumer confidence as there was uncertainty regarding future
prospects which resulted in individuals and firms delaying
spending. In addition, consumers’ ability to purchase goods and
remittance inflows, increased job losses2 and reduced
working hours. The earning capacity of the country was
weakened by falling international demand which led to a
decline in the country’s main exports. Economic
performance was also constrained during the first quarter of
2009 by an unstable exchange rate which increased the cost
of doing business for firms. However, international
commodity prices, in particular crude oil, declined partly in
response to the lower global demand. This augured well for
inflation and the current account of the balance of payments.
ECONOMIC POLICY FRAMEWORK
At the start of FY 2009/10, the Government of Jamaica
(GOJ) framed the macroeconomic programme within the
context of the global economic crisis and its anticipated
severe impact on the domestic economy. As a consequence,
the GOJ affirmed the need to continue pursuing five
strategies which were highlighted in FY2008/09 aimed at
creating a more competitive macroeconomic environment.
These were: (i) strong disciplined approach to debt
management; (ii) tax reform; (iii) reduced bureaucracy; (iv)
investment promotion; (v) development of alternative
energy sources.

4.0
3.0
2.0
PER CENT

1.0
0.0
-1.0
-2.0
-3.0
-4.0

FIGURE 5A: CHANGE IN REAL GDP FOR THE JAMAICAN ECONOMY 2001-2009

1 During 2008, real GDP for the Jamaican economy fell by 0.9 per cent, the first decline since 1998.
2 The average unemployment rate increased to 11.4 per cent in 2009 from 10.6 per cent in 2008.
 5.2 5.2

TABLE 5.1
VALUE ADDED BY INDUSTRY AT CONSTANT (2003) PRICES, 2004-2009
($ MILLION)

2004 2005 2006 2007r 2008r 2009p

GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 131 227.4 131 042.9 133 203.6 133 331.3 127 943.3 117 121

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 25 196.5 23 490.6 27 286.1 25 696.1 24 362.1 27 301.5
Mining & Quarrying 19 659.3 20 212.9 20 395.6 19 863.8 19 370.4 9 643.9
Manufacture 46 245.2 44 214.6 43 224.6 43 541.2 42 924.7 40 790.6
of which: Food, Beverages & Tobacco 24 612.3 24 469.8 23 422.4 24 007.5 23 657.2 22 736.1
Other Manufacturing 21 632.9 19 744.8 19 802.2 19 533.7 19 267.5 18 054.5
Construction 40 126.5 43 124.9 42 297.2 44 230.2 41 286.1 39 385.0

SERVICES INDUSTRY 377 974.8 382 923.3 394 255.8 402 968.6 403 357.4 400 942.7

Electricity & Water Supply 15 761.8 16 416.4 16 949.3 17 043.8 17 197.7 17 570.7
Transport, Storage & Communication 57 546.0 58 068.2 60 651.5 62 664.7 61 250.6 58 560.2
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation 91 017.2 92 329.5 94 402.5 96 039.7 95 877.8 94 725.8
of Machinery
Finance & Insurance Services 54 379.4 54 132.3 55 383.8 57 268.5 57 738.8 58 212.4
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 46 233.9 46 871.2 47 679.2 49 190.1 49 800.9 50 017.1
Producers of Government Services 58 144.2 58 294 58 579.1 59 365.5 59 322.9 59 190.5
Hotels and Restaurants 23 664.4 24 733.5 27 230.4 27 320.6 27 929.9 28 333.8
Other Services 31 228.0 32 078.2 33 380.1 34 075.6 34 238.8 34 332.3

Less Financial Intermediation Services Indirectly 25 577.5 25 482.7 25 713.4 27 050.9 26 879.0 27 221.5
Measured (FISIM)

TOTAL GDP AT BASIC PRICES 483 624.7 488 483.5 501 746.1 509 248.9 504 421.7 490 842.3

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

Precise targets outlined for FY 2009/10 were predicated on the
basis that the global economy would not show signs of recovery
until the second quarter of 2010 and that international commodity
prices remain below FY 2008/09 levels. The specific
macroeconomic targets outlined at the start of FY 2009/10 were:
— Real GDP declining between 2.5 per cent and 3.5 per
cent: This projected out-turn was larger than the 1.6 per
cent contraction recorded for FY 2008/09. Economic
activity was expected to be constrained by the projected
fall in demand for exports, lower capital inflows and re-
duced consumer spending occasioned by reduction in
remittances and increased job losses;
— Fiscal deficit of 5.5 per cent of GDP: This was predi-
cated on a programmed increase in revenue of 16.3 per
cent partly associated with the implementation of a tax
package in May 2009 aimed at raising $2.0 billion. Ex-
penditure was programmed to increase by 15.1 per
cent;
mainly to the expected decline in the value of im-
ported crude oil.
The downside risks to the attainment of these targets
included adverse weather conditions and higher than
expected increases in international commodity prices.
However, the economic performance would be better than
expected if the global economy recovered quicker than
projected.
The global recession highlighted Jamaica’s fundamental
economic structural weaknesses such as a high debt burden
and an inefficient and inequitable tax system. The broad
macroeconomic programme, therefore, reflected initiatives
aimed at addressing some of the pre-existing structural
problems. Consequently, a framework was developed to
address the structural weaknesses. The framework
included:
— managing public sector cash balances and debt;

— Inflation rate of between 11.0 per cent and 14.0 per
cent: Prices were expected to reflect the pass through
effect of depreciation during the first quarter of 2009.
However price movements were projected to be tem-
pered by weak domestic demand and lower interna-
tional commodity prices than what prevailed during FY
2008/09; and
— A narrowing of the current account deficit to ap-
proximately 14.2 per cent of GDP: The current ac-
count deficit was projected to narrow due to an antici-
pated improvement in the Goods sub-account due
— improving central government financial manage-
ment and budget process;
— rationalizing public bodies;
— increasing growth and competitiveness;
— implementing tax policy and administrative re-
form; and
— managing the public sector wage bill.
In an effort to manage public sector cash balances, the
GOJ announced its intention to establish a Central Treasury
Management System. This was aimed at addressing the
 5.3 5.3

current weaknesses in the existing system of managing public
funds.
Additional GOJ initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of
the economic crisis
Expenditure curtailment: The GOJ sought to contain growth
in expenditure mainly through the curtailment of increases in
wages and salaries, the second largest part of the budget
expenditure. Consequently, a two-year wage freeze was
announced for all public sector workers combined with a
postponement of a seven per cent increase in salary which was due
at the start of FY 2009/10. Additionally, the supplementary
budget tabled in September 2009 revealed budget cuts for some
ministries and agencies.
Revenue enhancing measures: Subsequent to the tabling of
the FY2009/10 budget, two additional tax packages were
announced in September and December 2009. These were aimed
at increasing revenues which were significantly lower than
initially programmed due to lower external and domestic demand.
Engaging the International Monetary Fund (IMF): As the
financial crisis intensified, Jamaica’s vulnerability to changes in
the external economic environment was magnified. Foreign
exchange inflows deteriorated due to: (i) reduced earnings from
the bauxite/alumina sub-industry; (ii) declining remittance and
tourism inflows; and (iii) a fall-off in capital inflows. This
situation posed a possible threat of the gross international reserves
falling below the internationally accepted benchmark of 12 weeks
of goods and services imports if alternative resources were
not identified. A possible erosion of investor confidence as
well as potential volatility in the foreign exchange market
would occur if the reserves were allowed to decline below
the benchmark. In addition, the government faced a
financing gap due to falling revenues and the inability to
source funds from the international capital markets.
Consequently, in an effort to increase the stock of
reserves, the GOJ decided to initiate negotiations for a
borrowing relationship with the IMF. An IMF Agreement
would also aid in bridging the Government’s financial gap
through its catalytic influence on other multilateral loan
inflows. Funds from these multilaterals would support the
reform agenda in the public sector, aid in the provision of
economic and social infrastructure and assist the
government in funding a range of programmes that would
improve human development.
The IMF agreement is vital to the medium term
macroeconomic programme as the flow of funds from the
IMF will facilitate an easing of monetary policy, engender
financial system stability, improve confidence and
ultimately establish a platform for sustained economic
growth and development. Based on initial discussions, the
IMF identified areas that would require strengthening if a
platform for medium term macroeconomic sustainability
was to be achieved. Among these were the:

TABLE 5.2
YEAR OVER YEAR CHANGE OF VALUE ADDED BY INDUSTRY AT CONSTANT (2003) PRICES, 2004-2009
PER CENT
Average Contribution to
Growth in 2009
2004 2005 2006 2007r 2008r 2009p 2004 Percentage points
-2008

GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 0.8 -0.1 1.6 0.1 -4.0 -8.5 -0.4 -2.1

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing -11.2 -6.8 16.2 -5.8 -5.2 12.1 -3.0 0.6
Mining & Quarrying 2.2 2.8 0.9 -2.6 -2.5 -50.2 0.1 -1.9
Manufacture 1.4 -4.4 -2.2 0.7 -1.4 -5.0 -1.2 -0.4
of which: Food, Beverages & Tobacco 3.5 -0.6 -4.3 2.5 -1.5 -3.9 -0.1 -0.2
Other Manufacturing -0.9 -8.7 0.3 -1.4 -1.4 -6.3 -2.5 -0.2
Construction 8.4 7.5 -1.9 4.6 -6.7 -4.6 2.2 -0.4

SERVICES INDUSTRY 1.7 1.3 3.0 2.2 0.1 -0.6 1.6 -0.5

Electricity & Water Supply -0.1 4.2 3.2 0.6 0.9 2.2 1.7 0.1
Transport, Storage & Communication 1.4 0.9 4.4 3.3 -2.3 -4.4 1.5 -0.5
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installa- 1.5 1.4 2.2 1.7 -0.2 -1.2 1.3 -0.2
tion of Machinery
Finance & Insurance Services 2.8 -0.5 2.3 3.4 0.8 0.8 1.8 0.1
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 1.9 1.4 1.7 3.2 1.2 0.4 1.9 0.0
Producers of Government Services 0.2 0.3 0.5 1.3 -0.1 -0.2 0.4 0.0
Hotels and Restaurants 4.3 4.5 10.1 0.3 2.2 1.4 4.2 0.1
Other Services 2.4 2.7 4.1 2.1 0.5 0.3 2.3 0.0

Less Financial Intermediation Services Indi- 1.6 -0.4 0.9 5.2 -0.6 1.3 1.3 0.1
rectly Measured (FISIM)

TOTAL GDP AT BASIC PRICES 1.4 1.0 2.7 1.5 -0.9 -2.7 1.1 -2.7

Discrepancies in the contribution to growth section are due to rounding.

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica
 5.4 5.4

TABLE 5.3
CONTRIBUTION TO GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT IN BASIC VALUES AT CONSTANT (2003) PRICES,
2004-2009
PER CENT

2004 2005 2006 2007r 2008r 2009p

GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 27.1 26.8 26.5 26.2 25.4 23.9

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 5.2 4.8 5.4 5.0 4.8 5.6
Mining & Quarrying 4.1 4.1 4.1 3.9 3.8 2.0
Manufacture 9.6 9.1 8.6 8.6 8.5 8.3
of which: Food, Beverages & Tobacco 5.1 5.0 4.7 4.7 4.7 4.6
Other Manufacturing 4.5 4.0 3.9 3.8 3.8 3.7
Construction 8.3 8.8 8.4 8.7 8.2 8.0

SERVICES INDUSTRY 78.2 78.4 78.6 79.1 80.0 81.7

Electricity & Water Supply 3.3 3.4 3.4 3.3 3.4 3.6
Transport, Storage & Communication 11.9 11.9 12.1 12.3 12.1 11.9
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation of Machinery 18.8 18.9 18.8 18.9 19.0 19.3
Finance & Insurance Services 11.2 11.1 11.0 11.2 11.4 11.9
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 9.6 9.6 9.5 9.7 9.9 10.2
Producers of Government Services 12.0 11.9 11.7 11.7 11.8 12.1
Hotels and Restaurants 4.9 5.1 5.4 5.4 5.5 5.8
Other Services 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.7 6.8 7.0

Less Financial Intermediation Services Indirectly Measured 5.3 5.2 5.1 5.3 5.3 5.5
(FISIM)

TOTAL GDP AT BASIC PRICES 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Discrepancies due to rounding

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

— establishment of a medium term debt strategy that
would alleviate the high debt servicing costs;
— con soli da tion of pub lic bod ies through merg ers,
divestments and improvement in efficiency; and
— implementation of measures that would limit the size of
future deficits such as legislating guidelines for fiscal
responsibility and enhancing tax administration.
The GOJ was asked to execute certain measures prior to an
approval of the loan by the IMF Board of Governors. One such
measure to address government finances was the announcement
of a tax package by December 2009 which should yield
approximately 2.0 per cent of GDP. With respect to public debt
management, the IMF requested the following additional prior
actions:
— the implementation of a debt exchange offer in January
2010 aimed at lowering the interest cost and reducing
the number of domestic debt that would mature over the
next two fiscal years; and
— the initiation of plans to liquidate or divest the national
carrier, Air Jamaica, in January 2010.
INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing
The Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing industry had a 12.1 per
cent increase in real value added and contributed 0.6 percentage
point to overall GDP growth (Table 5.2). The industry’s
share of total GDP increased to 5.6 per cent from 4.8 per cent
in 2008 (Table 5.3). According to the Planning Institute of
Jamaica’s Agricultural Production Index, gross output
increased by 11.7 per cent attributable primarily to a 20.0 per
cent and 12.3 per cent growth in the Other Agricultural
Crops and Export Crops categories, respectively. Lower
output of 5.3 per cent and 1.7 per cent was recorded for
Fishing and Animal Farming, respectively.
Production performance was influenced mainly by
improved weather conditions during 2009 relative to 2008
when the industry contracted due to the effects of Hurricane
Dean (August 2007) and Tropical Storm Gustav (August
2008). During 2009, drought conditions existed primarily
during the final six months, however, the impact on the
industry was not as severe as the combined effects of the two
weather systems in 2008.
Increased agricultural output was also influenced by
initiatives introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture to
increase production. These included:
— Production and Productivity Programme which
was aimed at improving best practice methodolo-
gies for farmers engaged in the production of se-
lected domestic crops; and
— programmes which offered farmers increased
support in irrigation, marketing and extension
services.
 5.5
Additionally, the industry benefited from new entrants to the
market, partly due to displaced workers from other industries.
Based on employment data from the Statistical Institute of
Jamaica, on average there were 10 500 more persons employed in
the industry during 2009 relative to 2008.
Mining & Quarrying
In this industry, real value added fell by 50.2 per cent, the
largest decline by an industry during 2009, and detracted 1.9
percentage points from overall GDP growth (see Table 5.2). The
share of Mining & Quarrying in total real GDP declined by 1.8
percentage points to 2.0 per cent. Performance during the year
was influenced mainly by activities in the bauxite/alumina
sub-industry. Total bauxite production declined by 46.3 per cent,
with the production of alumina and crude bauxite falling by 55.6
per cent and 28.1 per cent, respectively. The bauxite/alumina
sub-industry was adversely affected by a decline in global demand
for aluminium products, resulting from the international economic
crisis. This situation, combined with less efficient local plants,
resulted in the closure of three alumina refineries3. The decline in
production was reflected in a lower Alumina Capacity utilization
rate which was 39.0 per cent in 2009 compared with 87.8 per cent
in 2008. The sole remaining alumina plant in production operated
at a capacity utilization rate of 96.1 per cent.
Manufacture
Real value added for the Manufacture industry contracted by
5.0 per cent. Lower output levels in 2009 were influenced by
declines of 3.9 per cent and 6.3 per cent in the Food Beverages &
Tobacco and Other Manufacturing segments, respectively. The
industry contributed minus 0.4 percentage points to overall
economic growth and 8.3 per cent to total GDP. The Manufacture
industry contracted in response to reduced demand both locally
and abroad for its products due to the impact of the global
economic crisis.
Output in the Food, Beverages & Tobacco category fell due
partly to lower production of sugar, molasses, dairy products and
edible fats. The decline in sugar production was linked to, among
other factors, uncertainty concerning the divestment of the
Government owned sugar factories. Within the Other
Manufacturing component, lower output levels were recorded for
Chemicals & Chemical products, Non-Metallic Minerals, Plastic
Products and Petroleum Products. Production in the Chemicals &
Chemical products group was stymied by lower production of
detergent4, sulphuric acid and aluminium sulphate. Production
levels in the Other Manufacturing component was also negatively
impacted by the downturn in the Construction and Mining &
Quarrying industries.
Construction
For the Construction industry, real value added fell by 4.6 per
cent, the second consecutive annual decline (see Table 5.2). This
out-turn compared with an annual average growth of 2.2 per cent
for the 2004–2008 period (see Table 5.2) and was due mainly to
the dampening effect of the global crisis on domestic demand. The
industry contributed minus 0.4 percentage point to overall GDP
3 WINDALCO’s two alumina plants closed on March 31, 2009 while ALPART ceased operations on May 15, 2009. This was in response to
overseas parent companies temporarily closing their less efficient plants given the reduction in global demand.
4 Reduced detergent production was associated with the permanent closure of one local manufacturer in June 2009.
5 Civil Engineering accounts for approximately 80.0 per cent of the other Building Construction segment.
5.5
growth with its share of the economy declining to 8.0 per
cent from 8.2 per cent in 2008.
As the domestic economy contracted, lower levels of
activity were recorded for the three main components:
Building Construction; Other Building Construction; and
Building Installation. The decline in the Building
Construction category stemmed from a reduction in
residential construction as well as other private and public
projects. Reduced activities in the Other Building
Construction category was influenced mainly by a decline in
Civil Engineering activities5 associated with lower sea and
airport expansion activity.
Electricity & Water Supply
Higher levels of activity in the Electricity & Water
Supply industry resulted in a 2.2 per cent increase in real
value added with a 0.1 percentage point contribution to total
GDP growth. The Electricity & Water Supply industry’s
share of real GDP increased for the second consecutive year,
moving to 3.6 per cent from 3.4 per cent in 2008. The
industry’s performance during 2009 was associated with
increased electricity generation and water production.
Electricity generation rose by 2.2 per cent to 4 124.0 GWh,
reflecting growth in electricity demand which was
facilitated mainly by a 7.1 per cent increase in output from
the non-Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo) sources
as generation from JPSCO remained relatively flat. Peak
demand reached its highest level during the July- September
quarter which consequently led to both JPSCo and
non-JPSCo sources recording their highest ever quarterly
generation figures. Record demand during this period was
associated with summer-like temperatures extending into
September, resulting in increased use of cooling systems.
Electricity sales grew by 3.2 per cent with most user
categories recording increases. The National Water
Commission produced 299 285.0 megalitres of water, an
increase of 2.2 per cent. Increased water production
occurred despite drought conditions primarily in the latter
half of 2009.
Transport, Storage & Communication
The Transport, Storage & Communication industry
registered a 4.4 per cent decline in real value added and
accounted for minus 0.5 percentage point of overall growth.
The industry’s share of total GDP declined to 11.9 per cent
from 12.1 per cent in 2008 (see Table 5.3). The downturn in
the industry during 2009 was influenced mainly by the
impact of the global economic crisis on merchandise trade
and travel. Lower value added was recorded for the
Tr a n s p o r t & St o r ag e c o mp o n e n t , h o w e v e r, t h e
Communication segment was estimated to have increased.
The main factors influencing the decline in the Transport &
Storage sub-industry were:
— domestic maritime cargo declining by 28.1 per
cent, reflecting mainly reduced exports of baux-
ite/alumina and sugar as well as a decline in
imports;
 5.6
— a 5.3 per cent reduction in the number of ship calls,
which negatively impacted revenue from port fees;
— total passenger movements at the international airports
falling by 5.1 per cent;
— air cargo movement declining by 26.1 per cent; and
— a 27.6 per cent decline in revenue passenger miles for
Air Jamaica.
Growth in the Communication component was spurred mainly
by increased activity in the telecommunications market.
Increased telecommunication usage was associated with the
introduction of new services, varied marketing initiatives and the
modernization of networks. At the end of December 2009, the
total number of mobile users was estimated at 3.0 million
compared with 2.7 million at the end of 2008. Increased usage in
the mobile segment is partly explained by the effects of intense
competition among players in the market. The number of fixed
lines customers, however, declined by 4.5 per cent to 302 336
customers. Combined, the number of telephone subscribers
increased by 7.7 per cent to approximately 3.3 million.
Wholesale and Retail Trade; Repairs & Installation of Ma-
chinery (WRTRIM)
The WRTRIM industry declined by 1.2 per cent, reflecting
mainly a fall in gross sales. The performance of this industry was
attributable to lower levels of aggregate demand due to the impact
of the global economic crisis. Business and consumer confidence
declined and translated into a general uncertainty and
unwillingness to spend primarily on the part of individuals.
Consumer demand was further constrained by reduced spending
power associated with: (i) a 11.4 per cent decline in remittances;
(ii) increased job losses; and (iii) the impact of new tax measures
on the price of some products. In addition, activities in the
industry were stymied by tightened credit conditions primarily in
the first three months of the year, as well as a 39.4 per cent decline
in the value of merchandise imports. The situation was further
compounded by declines in industries linked to the WRTRIM,
primarily, Construction and Manufacture.
Based on preliminary General Consumption Tax data, five of
the nine goods categories registered lower gross sales. These
included Food, Beverages & Tobacco; Hardware, Building
Supplies & Electrical Goods; and Automobiles, Commercial &
Transport Equipment. Declines in these categories were
consistent with lower import value for Food; Beverages &
Tobacco; Machinery & Transport Equipment; and Manufactured
Goods. The WRTRIM industry contributed minus 0.2 percentage
point to total GDP growth. Despite the industry’s decline, its share
of total GDP increased to 19.3 per cent from 19.0 per cent in 2008.
Finance & Insurance Services
Real value added in the Finance & Insurance Services industry
increased by 0.8 per cent, contributing 0.1 percentage point to
overall growth and accounting for 11.9 per cent of total real GDP.
The industry was influenced positively by a rise in the net interest
income of deposit-taking institutions and increased mortgage
6 Producers of government services are public sector entities engaged in activities such as public administration, defence, education, health,
sanitary and welfare services. National accounting convention measures the value of output of producers of government services as the cost
of providing these services. In addition, operating surplus, by convention, is set at zero so that value added is essentially composed of
compensation to employees. Based on current national accounting methodology, changes in real value added in this industry would be
proportional to changes in employment levels.
5.6
activity. In addition, the industry benefited from a $5.4
billion operating profit by the Bank of Jamaica. However,
the industry was stymied by the downturn in the domestic
economy and the resulting negative impact on consumer and
business confidence; purchasing power of individuals; and
employment levels. As a result, the industry was challenged
by: (i) a reduction in credit, in real terms, to the private sector
by deposit taking institutions due to a slowdown in personal
consumption and investment spending; (ii) an increase in the
stock of non-performing loans; and (iii) a decline in trading
transactions on the Jamaica Stock Exchange.
Producers of Government Services6
During 2009, real value added generated by Producers of
Government Services declined by 0.2 per cent and
accounted for 12.1 per cent of total GDP. This performance
can be attributed to government’s efforts to reduce
expenditure in the public service, primarily for wages and
salaries, given the adverse impact of the global economic
crisis on revenues. In addition, during 2009, the number of
paid government employees averaged 142 550 persons, a
1.8 per cent decline relative to 2008.
Hotels & Restaurants
The Hotels & Restaurants industry grew by 1.4 per cent
due to increased activity in the Hotels sub-industry as there
was an estimated decline in real value added for the
Restaurants component. The industry contributed 0.1
percentage point to overall GDP growth, with its share of
total GDP increasing to 5.8 per cent from 5.5 per cent in 2008
(see Table 5.2 and Table 5.3).
The Hotels sub-industry was positively influenced by a
3.6 per cent increase in stopover arrivals. There was
increased marketing and discounting in the hotel industry in
response to the negative effects of the global economic crisis
on travel. These initiatives may have contributed to the
growth in stopover arrivals during 2009. Despite the
increase in stopovers, growth in the industry was
constrained by the dampening effect of discounting on the
industry’s earnings. For the review period, total earnings
amounted to US$1 939.7 million, a 1.8 per cent decline.
Expenditure by stopovers was recorded at US$1 859.1
million, a 0.7 per cent reduction. Within the Restaurant
component, lower value added was influenced by reduced
demand for restaurant services stemming from, among other
things, the decline in consumer confidence and purchasing
power.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
The Jamaica Debt Exchange (JDX) was launched on
January 14, 2010 as an essential element of the GOJ debt
management strategy, and as a prior action to the approval of
an IMF loan. The JDX is a debt swap between government
and the holders of government bonds which were issued
locally. Bond holders will be issued new bonds with longer
maturity dates at lower interest rates. This programme is
 5.7 5.7

TABLE 5.4
CONTRIBUTION TO TOTAL GOODS AND SERVICES PRODUCTION, IN BASIC VALUES AT CONSTANT
(2003) PRICES 2004-2009
(Per cent)a
2004 2005 2006 2007r 2008r 2009p

GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 25.8 25.5 25.3 24.9 24.1 22.6

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 4.9 4.6 5.2 4.8 4.6 5.3
Mining & Quarrying 3.9 3.9 3.9 3.7 3.6 1.9
Manufacture 9.1 8.6 8.2 8.1 8.1 7.9
of which: Food, Beverages & Tobacco 4.8 4.8 4.4 4.5 4.5 4.4
Other Manufacturing 4.2 3.8 3.8 3.6 3.6 3.5
Construction 7.9 8.4 8.0 8.2 7.8 7.6

SERVICES INDUSTRY 74.2 74.5 74.7 75.1 75.9 77.4

Electricity & Water Supply 3.1 3.2 3.2 3.2 3.2 3.4
Transport, Storage & Communication 11.3 11.3 11.5 11.7 11.5 11.3
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation 17.9 18.0 17.9 17.9 18.0 18.3
of Machinery
Finance & Insurance Services 10.7 10.5 10.5 10.7 10.9 11.2
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 9.1 9.1 9.0 9.2 9.4 9.7
Producers of Government Services 11.4 11.3 11.1 11.1 11.2 11.4
Hotels and Restaurants 4.6 4.8 5.2 5.1 5.3 5.5
Other Services 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.4 6.6

TOTAL GDP AT BASIC PRICES 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

a - Previously presented as "Normalised Contribution to GDP at Constant Prices." This table expresses the constant price
value added of each industry as a share of the total GDP for Goods and Services, excluding Financial Intermediation Servies Indirectly Measured

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

expected to yield interest savings of up to $40.0 billion. With
respect to the other two prior actions, the tax package that was
announced in December 2009 became effective on January 1,
2010 and discussions are underway for the divestment of Air
Jamaica.
Based on the successful completion of the three prior actions,
the Board of Governors of the IMF approved Jamaica’s
application for a 27 month US$1.27 billion Stand By Agreement
(SBA) on February 4, 2010. Subsequent to the approval, the first
tranche of US$640 million was disbursed, which led to the gross
international reserves increasing to US$2.2 billion, representing
16.9 weeks of goods and services imports. The disbursement of
the remaining funds will be linked to the implementation of
additional measures which are geared towards achieving stated
targets. The IMF agreement facilitated loan commitments from
other multilateral agencies totaling US$1.1 billion over the next
two years.
The Government’s Memorandum of Economic and Financial
Policies (MEFP), which accompanied the Letter of Intent to the
IMF, detailed the policies and measures it intended to implement
to address the country’s economic problems. Jamaica’s Medium
Term Economic and Financial Programme FY2009/10 – FY
2013/14 was outlined in the MEFP. The main objectives of the
programme were: (i) placing the debt/GDP ratio on a
sustainable downward trajectory; (ii) embedding fiscal
discipline and accountability; (iii) implementing reforms to
further strengthen the financial system; and (iv) raising real
GDP growth rates. Monetary policy will be aimed at
reducing inflation to mid-single digits and maintaining it at
those levels within the context of a managed floating
exchange rate regime. The Medium Term Economic and
Financial Programme outlined revised targets for
FY2009/10 as well as specific targets for FY 2010/11 – FY
2013/14 (Table 5.6).
OUTLOOK
The performance of the Jamaican economy during 2010
will be influenced by developments in both the international
and domestic market. The global economy is projected to
recover during 2010, with an estimated 3.9 per cent growth
in world output, reversing the 0.8 per cent decline recorded
in 20097. World demand is expected to increase in 2010
facilitated by increased confidence in both the financial
market and real economy. Advanced economies are
anticipated to grow by 2.1 per cent led by Jamaica’s main
trading partner, the United States of America, with a 2.7 per
cent increase in output8. World trade in goods and services is

7 “World Economic Outlook”, IMF January 2010.

8 This contrasts with the 2.5 per cent decline recorded in 2009.
 5.8 5.8

TABLE 5.5
VALUE ADDED BY INDUSTRY AT CURRENT PRICES, 2004-2009
($ MILLION)

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 151 835.3 168 283.8 183 861.0 209 928.2 224 237.7 233 876.8

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 30 984.2 36 452.6 39 723.9 41 318.5 50 078.5 60 302.6
Mining & Quarrying 23 533.4 25 106.3 27 260.4 32 353.2 16 239.5 7 925.4
Manufacture 51 469.7 54 456.0 60 211.1 68 640.3 83 316 87 389.11
of which: Food, Beverages & Tobacco 27 060.6 29 457.8 31 467.7 36 272.0 43 358.3 48 181.14
Other Manufacturing 24 409.2 24 998.2 28 743.4 32 368.3 39 957.7 39 207.99
Construction 45 847.9 52 269.0 56 665.7 67 616.3 74 603.7 78 259.7

SERVICES INDUSTRY 41 6358.1 470 422.8 535 068.3 606 395.2 710 997.1 777 459.7

Electricity & Water Supply 18 290.2 22 304.1 25 960.1 28 814.8 38 126.3 38 239.1
Transport, Storage & Communication 63 850.7 70 397.5 80 494.1 91 920.7 96 394.5 98 945.1
Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation of Machin- 103 107.4 121 100.0 138 090.1 155 760.6 191 980.0 206 884.1
ery
Finance & Insurance Services 56 562.2 61 966.1 66 822.8 76 133.7 87 767.4 98 837.12
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 52 092.7 59 775.9 67 511.0 78 216.8 91 612.1 100 060.9
Producers of Government Services 61 794.0 67 524.9 79 289.7 79 216.8 108 674.5 127 854.0
Hotels and Restaurants 26 202.6 28 644.3 33 353.5 36 178.6 40 419.0 44 886.9
Other Services 34 458.1 38 710.0 43 547.0 48 516.9 56 023.4 61 752.5

Less Financial Intermediation Services Indirectly Measured 26 359.6 29 418.9 31 355.5 35 204.9 41 790.0 49 417.0
(FISIM)

TOTAL GDP AT BASIC PRICES 541 833.8 609 287.7 687 573.8 781 118.5 893 444.7 961 919.5

TAXES LESS SUBSIDIES ON PRODUCTS 78 424.7 86 067.5 98 557.3 112 027.5 124 782.9 129 207.3

GDP AT MARKET PRICES (1) 620 258.5 695 355.3 786 131.2 893 146.0 1 018 227.7 1 091 126.7

NOTE 1 : Total GDP at Market Prices, is the sum of: Total GDP at Basic Prices and Taxes Less Subsidies on Products

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

projected to increase by 5.8 per cent. These developments could
lead to increased demand for Jamaica’s exports.
The domestic macroeconomy is expected to show signs of
improvement during 2010 relative to 2009. This is predicated on,
inter alia, the impact of the approval of the IMF loan. The
approved SBA facilitated: (a) an injection of confidence in the
Jamaican economy; (b) reduction in interest rates due to the
impact of the JDX; (c) an expansion in the gross national reserves
with expectations of further increases; and (d) fiscal
consolidation. These should augur well for stability in the
foreign exchange market throughout 2010 as well as
facilitate a continued downward trend in interest rates,
which in turn should stimulate investment, consumer
demand and output. However, productive activity may be
constrained by the effects of measures implemented as part
of the IMF requirements: These include:
— the contractionary impact of government’s fiscal
policy measures announced in December 2009;

TABLE 5.6
JAMAICA: SELECTED MEDIUM - TERM MACRO-ECONOMIC TARGETS FY 2009/10 - FY 2013/14

FY 2009/10 FY 2010/11 FY 2011/12 FY 2012/13 FY 2013/14

Real GDP (per cent change) -3.5 0.6 1.9 1.9 2.0
Public Sector Deficit (per cent) -12.7 -7.5 -4.5 -2.5 -0.5
Inflation (Annual Point to point) 12.2 7.3 7.0 6.5 6.0
Current Account / GDP (per cent) -9.4 -8.8 -6.6 -5.9 -5.0
Gross Reserves in weeks of imports 14.8 14.6 17.0 16.7 15.8

Source: Jamaica - Memorandum of Economic and Financial Policies

 5.9
— inflationary impulses associated with revenue en-
hancement measures, and increased administrative
costs; and
— further weakened demand stemming from reduction in
real wages.
Given these external and domestic market conditions, the
economy is projected to record marginal growth of between 0.0
per cent and 0.5 per cent during 2010. This performance is
predicated on the combined effects of a reduction in real GDP in
the first six months and increased real GDP in the second half of
2010. Production levels during January–June 2010 may be
stymied by continued weak domestic demand and dampened
global demand for some main exports, primarily alumina.
However, increased productive activity in the July–December
2010 period is expected to be influenced mainly by the recovery in
5.9
the world economy. The industries which are expected to be
the main catalysts for growth during this six month period
are: Hotels & Restaurants; and Transport, Storage &
Communication.
The main sources of uncertainty during 2010 are
downside risks associated with the possibility of:
— adverse weather conditions;
— deviation from quarterly targets outlined in the
Mem o ran dum of Eco nomic and Fi nan cial
Policies;
— higher than anticipated oil prices; and
— slower than anticipated recovery in the global
economy.¢
CHAPTER 6
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS AND
EXTERNAL TRADE
INTRODUCTION
J amaica’s Balance of Payments (BOP) performance during
2009, was mainly influenced by the international economic
crisis which had intensified during the latter part of 2008. World
output declined, in particular, production in Advanced Econo-
mies contracted by 3.2 per cent, reflecting mainly weak global
demand. World trade volume in goods and services fell by 12.3
per cent, contrasting with the 2.8 per cent growth recorded in
20081. Jamaica’s BOP position was negatively affected by the
weak demand globally combined with increased job losses and
reduced investor confidence. This was reflected in:
– a decline in earnings from major exports primarily alu-
mina;
– reduction in remittance inflows; and
– contraction in Private and Official investments.
The decline in global demand resulted in a reduction in
international commodity prices, in particular crude oil, during
2009 compared with 2008. This augured well for the
merchandise trade deficit which contracted due to a decline in
the value of imports associated primarily with the lower cost of
Mineral Fuels. The narrowing of the merchandise trade deficit
was also attributable to a reduction in the volume of some
imports because of a downturn in domestic economic activity. A
consequence of this improvement in the merchandise trade
deficit, was the narrowing of the current account deficit of the
BOP.
The Jamaican dollar depreciated nominally by 10.2 per cent
against the US dollar in 2009. Most of this movement occurred
during the first quarter of 2009 when instability in the foreign
exchange market resulted in a 9.4 per cent depreciation. The
market was volatile during this period primarily because of
heightened demand and falling supply of foreign currency
associated with the global economic crisis. In an effort to stem
the instability, the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ), inter alia, sold
foreign currency to the market. For the remainder of the year the
foreign exchange market was characterized by general stability.
1 “World Economic Output”, IMF January 2010.
Negotiations with the International Monetary Fund
(IMF)
The worsening global economic crisis highlighted
Jamaica’s susceptibility to changes in the international
environment. Although the current account deficit improved,
foreign exchange inflows deteriorated. The reduction in
inflows amplified the risk of the Gross International Reserves
falling below the internationally accepted benchmark of 12
weeks of goods and services imports. Falling below the
benchmark would lead to erosion in investor confidence. As a
result, the Government of Jamaica decided to commence
negotiations for a borrowing relationship with the IMF in an
effort to meet its external debt obligations without depleting
the net international reserves. Additionally, lower than
programmed tax revenues resulted in a financing gap which
was further exacerbated by the closure of the international
capital market. An IMF Agreement would also influence
other multilateral loan inflows which would assist in closing
the financial gaps.
TRADE POLICY AND PROGRAMMES
Jamaica’s trade environment continued to be guided by the
Jamaica Trade Policy 2001, with key objectives of:
– creating new, diversified exports by facilitating the
growth of domestic capital as the basis for diversify-
ing exports and facilitating market penetration;
– displacing imports, i.e., steadily reducing the share of
imports relative to outputs; and
– increasing the flow of net positive returns from over-
seas assets that have been generating significant re-
mittances and other capital flows for Jamaica.
The Vision 2030 Jamaica – National Development Plan
(NDP) was finalized and tabled during the year. One of the
National Outcomes of the NDP is the development of an
Enabling Business Environment including using trade and
foreign relations to create an enabling external environment
for Jamaica’s economic growth.
Another National Outcome is the development of
Internationally Competitive Industry Structures, which
includes five strategies, namely:
– develop company sophistication and productivity;
– develop economic linkages and clusters;
 6.2
1000
500
0
US$ Million
-500
-1000
-1500
-2000
-2500
-3000
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
FIGURE 6A: CURRENT ACCOUNT DEFICIT, 1999 - 2009 (US$M)
– develop economies of scale and scope through collabo-
ration among enterprises in the region;
– enhance the framework for competition among enter-
prises; and
– promote eco-efficiency and the green economy.
This Outcome will target nine productive industries:
Agriculture; Manufacture; Mining & Quarrying; Construction;
Creative Industries; Sport; Information and Communications
Technology; Services; and Tourism.
Consistent with these National Outcomes, the National
Export Strategy focuses on achieving export-led growth
through improved export performance and global
competitiveness. During the medium term the key deliverables
of the strategy includes the creation of higher quality jobs,
economic development, and the sustainable use of resources
through:
– an increase in the share of exports to GDP from one
fifth to one third by 2013;
– an increase in the export sector’s contribution to em-
ployment;
– achieving a greater diversification of exports through,
- increasing the value of non-traditional exports;
- increasing the contribution of services to overall
exports; and
- increasing penetration in existing markets and
accessing new and emerging markets
The major trade policy developments during the year
included the provisional application of the CARIFORUM –
European Community (EC) Economic Partnership Agreement
(EPA) and the approval of the waiver for an extension of the
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA).
The CARIFORUM-EC EPA which was signed at the end of
2008 was provisionally applied during 2009. The EPA is an
essential component of CARIFORUM’s strategy in
confronting the changing international trading environment
which is characterized by trade agreements which are
compatible with the World Trade Organizations (WTO) rules
on trade. The EPA covers all areas of trade between the
CARIFORUM countries and the EC including Trade in Goods,
Services and Investment; Competition Policy; Innovation and
Intellectual Property; Transparency in Public Procurement;
Environment and Personal Data Protection. The EPA
Agreement is WTO compatible and secures continued duty
free access of exports from CARIFORUM to the EC market.
The two regions hosted their first Business Forum during the
year. This event focused on:
– opportunities and challenges associated with doing
business within the regions, particularly in the area of
export of services; and
– ways in which to use the EPA as a tool to expand trade
between the two regions.
In May 2009, the WTO Council of Trade in Goods
approved a waiver request from the USA on the Caribbean
Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA). The waiver will
remain in effect until 2014 and permits specific CARICOM
goods duty free entry to the USA market. The Agreement
under the Act provides non-reciprocal trade preferences to
CARICOM and is therefore not WTO compliant. It therefore
requires a waiver agreed by all other WTO members to remain
in force. This arrangement which started with the Caribbean
Basin Initiative (CBI) in 1983, was later expanded in the
Caribbean Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) in 2000. The main
exports from Jamaica which are facilitated under this
agreement include Ethanol and Sugar.
 6.3

TABLE 6.1
BALANCE OF PAYMENTS, 2002 - 2009
(US$ Million)
2009/2008 2009/2008
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p Abs. %
Change Change

1. Current Account -1 074.4 -772.6 -501.9 -1 071.5 -1 182.9 -2 038.2 -2 793.3 -912.4 1 880.9 -67.3

A. Goods -1 870.5 -1 942.6 -1 943.5 -2 581.3 -2 943.4 -3 841.3 -4 802.9 -3 123.4 1 679.5 -35.0
Exports 1 309.1 1 385.6 1 601.6 1 664.3 2 133.6 2 362.6 2 743.9 1 386.1 -1 357.8 -49.5
Imports 3 179.6 3 328.2 3 545.1 4 245.6 5 077.0 6 203.9 7 546.8 4 509.5 -3 037.2 -40.2

B. Services 3 14.7 552.3 578.2 607.3 627.6 424.8 428.1 751.9 323.8 75.6
Transportation -245.6 -143.6 -143.6 -266.6 -426.5 -540.4 -644.7 -373.5 271.2 -42.1
Travel 950.3 1 102.7 1 151.5 1 295.7 1 596.6 1 611.9 1 707.7 1 721.7 14.0 0.8
Other Services -390 -406.7 -429.7 -421.8 -542.6 -646.7 -634.9 -596.4 38.5 -6.1

C. Income -605.5 -571.4 -582.7 -675.9 -615.7 -661.6 -568.3 -586.3 -18 3.2
Compensation of Employees 82.1 70.7 84.5 88.5 96 64.8 83.7 58.6 -25.1 -29.9
Investment Income -687.6 -642.1 -667.2 -764.4 -711.7 -726.4 -651.9 -644.9 7.0 -1.1

D. Current Transfers 1 086.9 1 189.1 1 446.1 1 578.4 1 748.6 2 039.9 2 149.8 2 045.5 -104.3 -4.9
General Government 107.6 105.2 159.9 137 145.4 133 100.7 148.7 48.1 47.7
Other Sector 979.3 1083.9 1286.2 1 441.4 1 603.2 1 906.9 2 049.1 1 896.8 -152.3 -7.4

2. Capital & Financial Account 1 074.4 772.6 501.9 1071.5 1 182.9 2038.2 2 793.3 912.4 -1 880.9 -67.3
A. Capital Account -16.9 0.1 2.2 -18.3 -27.7 -35.5 18.1 10.4 -7.7 -42.5
Capital Transfers -16.9 -0.3 2.2 -18.3 -27.7 -35.5 18.1 10.4 -7.7 -42.5
General Government 0.2 0.1 13.8 0.3 4.1 0.7 48.6 45.3 -3.3 -6.8
Other Sector -17.1 -0.4 -11.6 -18.6 -31.8 -36.2 -30.5 -34.9 -4.4 14.4
Acq/Disp. of Non-produced 0 0.4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Non-fin. Assets

B. Financial Account 1091.3 772.5 499.7 1 089.8 1 210.6 2 073.7 2 775.2 902 -1 873.2 -67.5
Official Investment (incl. Govt. 101.1 -367.2 507.5 448.3 590.3 653 518.6 249.4 -269.2 -51.9
Reserves)
Central Government 81.6 -362.2 480.2 103.6 72 105.8 188.4 -215.6 -404.0 -214.5
Other Official Investment 19.6 -4.9 27.3 344.7 518.3 547.2 330.2 465 134.8 40.8
Private Investment (incl. Errors & 746.4 707.6 685.8 870.4 850.4 980.9 2 151.8 609 -1 542.8 -71.7
Omissions)
Reservesa 243.7 432.1 -693.6 -228.9 -230.1 439.8 104.8 43.6

r - revised
p - preliminary

a - According to Balance of Payments Convention, minus reserves means an increase in reserves and vice versa.

Source: Bank of Jamaica

BALANCE OF PAYMENTS DEVELOPMENTS
Current Account
During 2009, the Current Account deficit narrowed by US$1
880.9 million to reach US$912.4 million (Table 6.1). This
represents the first annual improvement since 2004 when the
current account deficit narrowed by US$270.7 million2 (Figure
6A). For 2009, the Current Account deficit was 7.4 per cent of
Gross Domestic Product compared with 19.4 per cent in 2008.
The contraction in the Current Account deficit stemmed from
improvements in the Goods and Services sub-accounts.
The deficit on the Goods sub-account narrowed by US$1
679.5 million to US$3 123.4 million and was the primary
reason for the Current Account improvement. This improved
performance in the Goods sub-account resulted from a US$3
037.2 million decline in the value of imports which
outweighed the US$1 357.8 million reductions in the value of

2 The narrowing of the Current Account deficit in 2004 resulted primarily from an expansion of the surplus position of the Current
Transfers sub-account. Higher gross private inflows occurred in the context of significant relief assistance, donations and
reinsurance inflows, associated with the passage of Hurricane Ivan in the latter part of 2004.
 6.4

2500

2000

US$ Million
1500

1000

500

0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Year

FIGURE 6B: STOCK OF NET INTERNATIONAL RESERVES, US$ MILLION, (1999 - 2009)

exports. The decline in the value of imports was influenced
mainly by the fall in expenditure on Mineral Fuels associated
with the lower crude oil prices relative to 2008. Lower export
receipts resulted primarily from a decline in alumina earnings.
There was a US$323.8 million increase in the surplus
position on the Services sub-account. This resulted mainly from
the Transportation category improving by US$271.2 million
due to reduced freight cost associated with the fall-off in
imports (see Table 6.1).
The deficit on the Income sub-account increased to
US$586.3 million from US$568.3 million (see Table 6.1). This
deterioration was due mainly to the decline in compensation of
employees. For the review period, the surplus position of the
Current Transfers sub-account worsened by US$104.3 million
to US$2 045.5 million and was due to a decline in net private
transfers which was consistent with lower remittance inflows.
Capital and Financial Account
The Capital & Financial Account recorded a net decline of
US$1 880.9 million to reach US$912.4 million (see Table 6.1).
This reduction emanated from declines in both the Capital
Account and the Financial Account. The Capital account
contracted by US$7.7 million to reach US$10.4 million and
was due to the combined effect of net inflows from official
sources declining by US$3.3 million and net private outflows
increasing by US$4.4 million. The balance on the Financial
Account declined to US$902.0 million from US$2 775.2
million in 2008. This was due to Net Official Investments
declining by US$269.2 million and Net Private Investment
falling by US$1 542.8 million. During the review period,
flows from both private and official sources were not sufficient
to finance the deficit on the Current Account. Consequently
there was a US$43.6 million drawdown of the Net
International Reserves (NIR).
At the end of December 2009, the stock of NIR was US$1
729.35 million compared with US$1 772.90 million at the end
of December 2008 (Figure 6B). In August 2009, the stock of
NIR was supplemented by an increase in Jamaica’s Special
Drawing Rights (SDR)3 quota. Given the adverse effects of the
global recession on IMF member countries, the IMF Board of
Governors approved the increase in general allocation of SDR.

40
30
20
10
0
Per Cent

-10
-20
-30
-40
-50
-60
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Exports Imports

FIGURE 6C: GROWTH IN EXPORTS AND IMPORTS (%) 1999-2009

3 The SDR is an interest bearing international reserve asset created by the IMF to supplement the official reserves of member
countries.
 6.5

TABLE 6.2
MERCHANDISE TRADE BY SITC SECTION, 2008, 2009
(US$ MILLION)

2009/2008 2009/2008
2008r 2009p Absolute Change
Imports Exports Balance Imports Exports Balance Imports Exports

TOTAL 8 361.0 2 682.9 -5 678.1 5 065.7 1 320.2 -3 745.5 -3 295.3 -1 362.7

Food 886.3 259.7 -626.6 802.3 236.9 -565.4 -84.0 -22.8

Beverages and Tobacco 93.5 93.6 0.2 79.9 101.9 22.0 -13.6 8.2
Crude Materials 73.4 1 373.4 1 300.0 54.9 470.4 415.5 -18.6 -903.1
Mineral Fuels 3 354.8 435.4 -2 919.4 1396.6 213.8 -1 182.8 -1 958.2 -221.6
Animal and Vegetable Oils 53.9 0.1 -53.9 33.9 0.2 -33.7 -20.1 0.1
Chemicals 951.0 449.2 -501.8 740.3 203.9 -536.3 -210.7 -245.3
Manufactured Goods 883.6 14.6 -868.9 555.8 25.6 -530.2 -327.7 11.0
Machinery and Transport 1 264.3 36.6 -1 227.6 820.2 41.0 -779.2 -444.0 4.4
Equipment
Misc. Manufactured Articles 682.0 20.2 -661.8 461.6 20.5 -441.1 -220.4 0.3
Other 118.3 0.0 -118.3 120.3 5.9 -114.4 2.1 5.9

r - revised
p - preliminary
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

As a result, SDR 250 billion was approved to be distributed
among all member countries. Jamaica’s share of this allocation
translated into approximately US$330.8 million.
Gross International Reserves at the end of December 2009
amounted to US$1 751.85 million, approximately 13.2 weeks of
goods and services imports. This compares with Gross
International Reserves of US$1 795.44 million, the equivalent
of 9.5 weeks of goods and services imports at the end of
December 2008.
EXTERNAL TRADE
Merchandise Trade
For 2009, Jamaica’s merchandise trade deficit with the rest
of the world was US$3 745.5 million, a US$1 932.6 million
decline compared with 2008. This narrowing of the trade deficit
stemmed from the decrease in expenditure on imports by US$3
295.3 million, which offset the US$1 362.7 million fall- off in
the value of merchandise exports (Table 6.2).
Merchandise Exports
Total export earnings fell by 50.8 per cent to US$1 320.2
million (Figure 6C and Table 6.3). Of this amount, US$1 243.2
million was Domestic Exports while the remaining US$77.0
million was Re-Exports. Domestic exports which accounted for
94.2 per cent of total export earnings, declined by US$1 377.4
million or 52.6 per cent. This decline resulted from reductions
in both Traditional and Non-Traditional exports.
Traditional Exports
The total value of Traditional Exports amounted to
US$616.3 million a decline of US$913.6 million or 59.7 per cent
(see Table 6.3). Lower receipts were recorded from the
Mining & Quarrying and Manufacture categories as the value
of Agriculture exports increased (see Table 6.3). Mining &
Quarrying exports grossed US$453.6 million, a US$ 894.5
million decline. This reduction accounted for 97.9 per cent of
the decline in Traditional Exports. Receipts from the Mining
& Quarrying category fell due to lower alumina and bauxite
earnings which declined by US$862.5 million and US$29.1
million, respectively4. A decline of US$26.4 million, or 17.6
per cent, was recorded for Manufacture exports due solely to a
US$31.9 million reduction in sugar exports. Lower earnings
from this product may be explained by a reduction in price as
well as a decline in sugar cane reaped because of uncertainty in
the sugar cane sub-industry stemming from negotiations to
divest government owned factories. Agriculture exports grew
by 22.9 per cent to US$39.1 million as a result of higher
earnings for coffee and cocoa exports.
Non-Traditional Exports
Earnings from Non-Traditional exports were US$626.9
million during 2009 compared with US$1 090.7 million in
2008. The main contributing factor to this reduction was a
U S $ 4 5 9 . 5 mi ll io n d e c li n e in t h e ca t eg o r y O th e r
Non-Traditional Export (see Table 6.3). Lower receipts from
this category were influenced mainly by reduced earnings
from Mineral Fuels, Ethanol and Chemical exports. Mineral
Fuels exports were valued at US$213.6 million , a US$220.8
million decline resulting from a fall in global fuel prices.
Ethanol exports grossed US$170.4 million, a decline of
US$224.9 million and was influenced by the temporary
cessation of exports during January – March 2009. No ethanol
was exported due to the decline in the price of the product on
the world market which led to plant closures during this three
month period. The government-owned plant was, in addition,

4 As a result of the lower demand and price of alumina on the world market associated with the global crisis, three alumina plants
closed in the first half of 2009.
 6.6

TABLE 6.3
TRADITIONAL AND NON - TRADITIONAL EXPORTS, 2008 - 2009
(US$ '000)
Jan-Dec. 2009/2008
2008r 2009p Abs. Change % Change

TRADITIONAL EXPORTS 1 529 918 616 275 -913 643 -59.7

Agriculture: 31 788 39 061 7 274 22.9
Banana 37 6 -31 -82.9
Citrus 1 821 1 710 -111 -6.1
Coffee 26 777 33 815 7,038 26.3
Cocoa 1 034 1 778 743 71.8
Pimento 2 119 1 753 -366 -17.3

Mining: 1 348 125 453 586 -894 539 -66.4

Bauxite 114 501 85 406 -29 095 -25.4
Alumina 1 230 492 367 996 -862 496 -70.1
Gypsum 3,132 184 -2 948 -94.1

Manufacture: 150 005 123 628 -26 377 -17.6

Sugar 104 251 72 331 -31 920 -30.6
Rum 43 662 48 597 4 935 11.3
Citrus Products 259 521 262 100.9
Coffee Products 1 331 1 503 172 12.9
Cocoa Products 501 676 174 34.8

NON-TRADITIONAL EXPORTS 1 090 715 626 922 -463 793 -42.5

Food: 118 669 119 469 801 0.7
Pumpkins 365 356 -9 -2.6
Other Vegetables & Preparations thereof 2 433 2 384 -50 -2.0
Dasheens 1 565 1 396 -169 -10.8
Sweet Potatoes 2 456 2 516 60 2.4
Yams 20 410 18 718 -1 692 -8.3
Papayas 2 341 2 867 525 22.4
Ackee 8 890 13 558 4 668 52.5
Other Fruits & Fruit Preparations 5 153 6 243 1 090 21.1
Meat & meat Preparations 3 119 2 844 -275 -8.8
Dairy products & Bird's Eggs 7 384 6 509 -874 -11.8
Fish, Custaceans & Molluscs 8 240 4 738 -3 501 -42.5
Baked Products 10 662 10 790 128 1.2
Juices excluding Citrus 8 383 6 854 -1528 -18.2
Animal feed 2 474 5 220 2,746 111.0
Sauces 11 008 10 588 -419 -3.8
Malted Extract & Preparations thereof 4 106 3 771 -335 -8.2
Other Food Exports 19 680 20 117 437 2.2

Beverages & Tobacco (excl. Rum): 49 638 53 092 3 453 7.0

Non-Alcoholic Beverages 9 778 8 561 -1 217 -12.4

Alcoholic Beverage (excl. Rum) 39 657 44 475 4 818 12.1
Tobacco 203 56 -147 -72.2

Crude Materials: 25 224 16 706 -8 519 -33.8

Limestone 1 191 1,076 -115 -9.7
Waste and Scrap Metal 21 131 12 630 -8 501 -40.2
Other 2 903 3 000 97 3.4

Other: 897 183 437 655 -459 528 -51.2

Mineral Fuels, etc. 434 355 213 568 -220 787 -50.8
Animal & Vegetable Oils & Fats 56 185 129 230.4
Chemicals (excl. Ethanol) 51 400 28 928 -22 472 -43.7
Ethanol 395 363 170 416 -224 947 -56.9
Manufactured Goods 4 785 15 793 11 009 230.1
Machinery and Transport Equipment 1 277 1 750 472 37.0
Wearing Apparel 1 493 1 465 -28 -1.9
Furniture 903 771 -131 -14.6
Other Domestic Exports 7 551 4 778 -2 773 -36.7
TOTAL DOMESTIC EXPORTS 2 620 632 1 243 197 -1 377 436 -52.6
RE-EXPORTS 62 247 77 019 14 772 23.7
TOTAL EXPORTS 2 682 879 1 320 215 -1 362 664 -50.8

p - preliminary
r - revised
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica
 6.7

TABLE 6.4
CARICOM TRADE, 2008- 2009
US$ MILLION

2009/2008 2009/2008
2008r 2009p Abs.Change
Imports Exports Balance Imports Exports Balance Imports Exports

TOTAL 1 597.2 66.1 -1 531.1 737.7 66.4 -671.3 -859.4 0.3

Food 122.3 25.6 -96.7 109.6 25.1 -84.5 -12.7 -0.5

Beverages and Tobacco 40.7 7.0 -33.7 36.6 6.4 -30.2 -4.1 -0.6
Crude Materials 1.0 0.8 -0.2 0.3 0.7 0.4 -0.7 0.0
Mineral Fuels 1 335.9 0.9 -1 335 515.1 0.3 -514.8 -820.8 -0.6
Animal and Vegetable 1.1 0.0 -1.1 1.0 0.0 -1.0 -0.1 0.0
Oils
Chemicals 35.9 19.0 -17.0 28.4 15.3 -13.1 -7.6 -3.7
Manufactured Goods 37.0 4.8 -32.2 29.6 8.1 -21.4 -7.4 3.4
Machinery and Transport 9.1 2.2 -6.9 3.8 4.9 1.1 -5.3 2.7
Equipment
Misc. Manufactured 14.1 5.8 -8.3 13.3 5.1 -8.2 -0.8 -0.6
Articles
Other 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.4 0.4 0.0 0.4

r - revised
p - preliminary

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

affected by uncertainty associated with the divestment process.
Chemical exports were valued at US$28.9 million, a 43.7 per
cent decline and is attributable partly to reduced demand for
aluminium sulphate5 due to low rainfall levels in the region. The
other main Non-Traditional Export category which declined
was Crude Materials. (See Table 6.3). Reduced receipts of
US$8.5 million from the exports of Waste and Scrap Metal was
the main reason for the decline in Crude Materials. The
downturn in the global economy and the associated decline in
world demand partly influenced the fall-off in Waste and Scrap
Metal exports.
Export earnings from the Food and Beverages & Tobacco
categories grew by US$0.8 million and US$3.5 million,
respectively ( see Table 6.3). The increase in the value of Food
Exports was led by higher receipts from the export of Ackee
which grew by US$4.7 million, Animal Feed by US$2.8 million
and Other Fruits & Fruit Preparations by US$1.1 million.
Beverages & Tobacco exports grossed US$53.1 million
reflecting a 7.0 per cent growth due to a US$4.8 million increase
in the value of Alcoholic Beverages as earnings from
Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco declined.
Merchandise Imports
Total Merchandise Imports amounted to US$5 065.7
million, a decline of US$3 295.3 million (see Table 6.2). The
reduction in the value of imports stemmed from declines in all
product groups with the exception of Other which increased by
US$2.1 million. Expenditure on Mineral Fuel imports was
US$1 396.6 million declining by US$1 958.2 million, the
largest absolute reduction. Lower international crude oil
prices and reduced domestic demand for heavy fuel oil mainly
explained the decline in expenditure for Mineral Fuels
imports6. The product group with the second largest decline
was Machinery and Transport Equipment which fell by
US$444.0 million to US$820.2 million. The general downturn
in the domestic economy may have resulted in reduced
demand for Machinery and Transport Equipment. The cost of
Manufactured Goods imports totalled US$555.8 million, a
decline of US$327.7 million which was associated with lower
consumer demand occasioned by the global economic crisis.
CARICOM TRADE
Jamaica’s trade deficit with CARICOM narrowed by
US$859.8 million to reach US$671.3 million. This
improvement resulted from the combined effect of a US$859.5
million decline in the value of imports and a US$0.3 million
increase in export earnings (Table 6.4). Total imports from
CARICOM were valued at US$737.7 million, a US$859.5
million fall-off. Most import groups declined with Mineral
Fuels recording the largest reduction of US$820.8 million.
Expenditure on Food, Chemicals and Manufactured Goods
imports registered declines of US$12.7 million, US$7.6
million and US$7.4, respectively. The main import
commodities from the region were Mineral Fuels and Food
which accounted for 69.8 per cent and 14.9 per cent,
respectively of the total CARICOM import bill. Total
merchandise exports were valued at US$66.4 million, a

5 Aluminium Sulphate is used in water treatment.

6 Heavy fuel oil is used in the Mining & Quarrying industry. As a result, reduced imports of this product is associated with the
downturn in the industry.
 6.8

Table 6.5
JAMAICA'S REMITTANCE FLOWS 2007 - 2009 (US$ MILLION)
Ab.Change % Change
Main Channels of Remittancea 2007 2008 2009 2009/2008 2009/2008

Remittance Companies 1 166.7 1 536.9 1 526.9 -10.0 -0.7

Other Remittances 797.6 484.4 265 -219.4 -45.3
Total Inflows 1 964.3 2 021.3 1 791.9 -229.4 -11.3
Total Outflows 303.2 313.2 237.4 -75.8 -24.2
Net Remittances 1 661.1 1 708.1 1 554.5 -153.6 -9.0

a: This table was previously presented showing Building Societies as a third channel for remittances. However,
regulatory changes which now require Building Societies to apply for a Remittance Company Licence have
resulted in modifications on how data on remittance flows are presented. Building Societies are currently
captured in the Remittance Companies category.

Source: Compiled from data obtained from the Bank of Jamaica

US$0.3 million increase. This improvement in the value of
merchandise exports was influenced mainly by a rise in
earnings for exported Manufactured Goods and Machinery and
Transport Equipment. Values for these categories grew by
US$3.4 million and US$2.7 million, respectively.
THE FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET
At the end of December 2009, the exchange rate was $89.60
per US$1.00 compared with $80.47 at the end of December
2008. This represented a nominal depreciation of 10.2 per cent
and real depreciation of 2.7 per cent7. Most of the depreciation
observed during the year occurred in the January – March
quarter when the exchange rate depreciated by 9.4 per cent in
nominal terms. During the first three months of 2009 the foreign
exchange market came under inordinate pressure due to
heightened demand and falling supply of foreign currency
associated with the international economic crisis8. Foreign
currency demand rose due to the impact of increased
uncertainty throughout the international financial market and
tightened global credit markets. Contractions in the global
credit market resulted in terminations or reductions in credit
lines to the productive industry by foreign banks. In addition,
there were increased margin calls9 on Jamaican financial
institutions.
Demand for foreign currency also increased due to waning
investor confidence and the expectation of a possible
downgrade of Jamaica’s sovereign debt by international rating
agencies. Consequent on the impact of these uncertainties as
well as expected declines in foreign exchange earnings, the
market responded by forward purchasing, thus further
increasing the demand for foreign currency.
On the supply side, the foreign exchange market was
negatively influenced by the fall- off in earnings from major
exporting industries such as bauxite/alumina and tourism. In
addition, inflows were constrained by a decline in remittances
and a reduction in Private and Official investments.
These demand and supply factors led to significant
imbalances in the foreign exchange market and resulted in
heightened instability. Consequently, during the first quarter
of 2009, the BOJ introduced additional measures10 aimed at
moderating the volatility. Some of the initiatives included:
– the establishment of a foreign exchange facility for
public sector bodies which was aimed at centralizing
the supply of foreign currency to meet the demand of
these entities in an organized manner to moderate fluc-
tuations in the market;
– moral suasion through more frequent dialogue with
market participants. This resulted in (i) authorized
cambios and dealers agreeing to restrain their over the
counter and contract bids to purchase foreign ex-
change; and (ii) commercial banks and cambios agree-
ing to submit 15.0 per cent and 10.0 per cent, respec-
tively of US dollar purchases to the foreign exchange
facility for public sector entities; and
– BOJ increasing the domestic cash reserve ratio for de-
posit taking institutions by three percentage points to
14.0 per cent.
The rate of depreciation moderated throughout the
remaining three quarters of 200911. Stability in the market was
also underpinned by relatively weak domestic demand.
Additionally, demand pressures were tempered by the Central

7 For 2008, the value of the Jamaican dollar vis-a-vis the US dollar declined by 12.24 per cent in nominal terms.
8 The volatility in the foreign exchange market started during October- December 2008 when the global economic crisis intensified.
The demand for foreign currency increased considerably while there was a significant fall out in foreign currency inflows resulting in
a nominal depreciation of 9.7 per cent.
9 This refers to a call for additional funds or securities in a margin account either because the value of equity in the account has fallen
below a required minimum (also termed a maintenance call) or because additional securities have been purchased. If you get a
margin call, you must deposit additional cash or securities to meet the call, bringing the balance of the account back up to the required
level.
10 During October –December 2008, the BOJ established a US$300 million Special Loan Facility for securities dealers and deposit
taking institutions. This was established to help facilitate the repayment of margin calls that were collaterized with GOJ global
bonds.
11 Nominal depreciation for April – June 2009, July – September 2009 and October – December 2009, were 0.29 per cent, 0.01 per cent
and 0.58 per cent, respectively.
 6.9

2500.0

2000.0

US$Million
1500.0

1000.0

500.0

0.0
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 6D: ANNUAL REMITTANCE INFLOWS 2003-2009

Bank selling foreign currency in the market to augment supply.
Throughout the year, the market continued to be constrained by
lower export earnings and declining remittance inflows.
However, foreign exchange supply was supplemented in August
2009 by Jamaica’s receipt of an increased allocation of IMF
SDR, the equivalent of US$ 330.8 million.
For 2009, total purchases of foreign exchange by Cambios
and Authorized Dealers totalled US$6 324.9 million. This was
US$2 210.3 million less than the amount purchased in 2008.
Total sales by these sources to the public amounted to US$6
246.1 million, 26.5 per cent or US$2 255.6 million lower than in
2008. Their sales to the BOJ fell by US$206.2 million to
US$313.4 million in 2009.
REMITTANCE FLOWS
During 2009, total remittance inflows declined to US$1
791.9 million from US$2 021.3 million in 2008 (Table 6.5 and
Other
8.8%
Cayman
5.4%
Canada
10.0%
USA
54.5%
Figure 6D). This 11.4 per cent reduction resulted mainly from
the adverse effect of the global economic recession.
Remittance Inflows to the island were curtailed by the decline
in income in the major source countries, due to increased job
losses and a decline in wealth from stocks and equities. Lower
inflows were recorded for all months of the year, except in
November and in December12. Inflows through Remittance
Companies were US$1 526.9 million a 0.7 per cent decline
compared with 2008 (Table 6.5). The category Other
Remittance sources realized inflows of US$265.0 million, a
decline of 45.3 per cent.
The United States of America continued to be Jamaica’s
main source country with US$977.2 million in inflows,
representing 54.5 per cent of total remittance inflows (Figure
6E). Inflows from the United Kingdom and Canada amounted
to US$380.1 million and US$179.8 million, respectively, the
second and third largest share of total remittance inflows.
Remittance outflows for 2009 totalled US$237.4 million
compared with US$313.2 million in 2008 (see Table 6.5).
OUTLOOK
The Board of Governors of the IMF approved Jamaica’s
application for a 27 month US$1.27 billion Stand By
Agreement on February 4, 2010. The loan will assist the
government in achieving inter alia the following:
– a debt management strategy that will reduce the debt
servicing cost13;

UK
– reforms to the financial sector in an effort to reduce
21.2%
risks; and
– a fiscal consolidation strategy aimed at streamlining
expenditure and reforming the public sector which in-
cludes the divestment of some non-core public bodies.
The approval of the IMF loan facilitated the following:
FIGURE 6E: SHARE OF REMITTANCE INFLOWS BY
SOURCE COUNTRY DURING 2009

12 Remittance inflows increased by 5.2 per cent in November 2009, the first monthly increase since September 2008 when a growth of
8.6 per cent was recorded.
13 The strategy includes the successful completion of the Jamaica Debt Exchange (JDX). The JDX is a debt swap between government
and the holders of government bonds which were issued locally. Bond holders would be issued new bonds with longer maturity
dates at lower interest rates. This programme is expected to yield interest savings of up to $40 billion.
 6.10
– the disbursement of the first tranche of US$640 million
by the IMF which resulted in the gross international re-
serves increasing to US$2.2 billion representing 16.9
weeks of goods and services import;
– improved confidence in the Jamaican economy;
– further reduction in interest rates14; and
– the expected rise in foreign exchange inflows of
US$1.1 billion from other multilateral agencies.
These should aid in the stability of the foreign exchange
market throughout 2010.
For 2010, world output and trade in goods & services are
projected to increase by 3.9 per cent and 5.8 per cent,
respectively15. This performance is predicated on a recovery in
the global economy following declines in output in 2009.
Global demand is expected to increase in 2010 as confidence
rebound in both the financial market and real economy.
Jamaica’s main trading partner, the United States of America, is
expected to register a 2.7 per cent increase in output, a reversal
of the 2009 performance when a decline of 2.5 per cent was
recorded.
The projected improvement in global economic conditions
during 2010 will have varied effects on Jamaica’s current
account balance. Increased global demand should result in
higher inflows associated with anticipated increases in (i)
demand for some of Jamaica’s merchandise exports; (ii)
tourism earnings; and (iii) remittance inflows16. However, the
expansion in global demand is projected to result in higher
international commodity prices. This would have a negative
effect on the Goods sub-account as expenditure for Mineral
fuels would increase. Despite an expected growth in global
14 On February 8 , 2010 the BOJ reduced the rate offered on the 30 day open market instrument by 50 basis points to 10.0 per cent.
Some deposit taking institutions have subsequently announced reductions in their lending rates.
15 “World Economic Outlook”, IMF January 2010.
16 Remittance inflows for January 2010 increased by 1.5 per cent to US$136.2 million relative to January 2009. This out-turn
represented the third consecutive monthly increase.
17 These plants are projected to remain closed as they operate at the top end of the global cost curve.
aluminium demand, export earnings from the local
bauxite/alumina industry are expected to continue contracting
as three alumina plants are projected to remain closed17.
The Current Account balance is also projected to be
impacted by developments in the local economy. Domestic
economic activity is projected to improve towards the latter
part of 2010 in response to the recovery in the global economy.
The consequent increase in aggregate demand may have to be
satisfied by increased volume of imports, in particular
Machinery & Transport Equipment as well as Manufactured
Goods. This would have two expansionary effects on the
Current Account deficit: an increase in the value of imports in
the Goods sub-account; and a rise in transportation cost in the
Services sub–account stemming from an increase in freight
cost.
For 2010, the Financial Account should be positively
impacted by increased inflows that are projected from the IMF
and other multilateral agencies, associated in part with the
approval of the IMF loan. As a prior action to the approval of
the IMF loan, the GOJ initiated plans to divest Air Jamaica.
Proceeds from this expected sale of Air Jamaica, combined
with the possible sale of government-owned sugar factories,
are also projected to augment the flow of funds to the Financial
Account. In addition, the Financial Account should also
benefit from higher private investment inflows that are
anticipated, based on the expected recovery in international
financial capital markets.
The merchandise trade balance, will be positively impacted
by a projected increase in the export of some commodities
however, the anticipated rise in the value of imports may lead
to an expansion in the trade deficit.n
 8.1 8.1

CHAPTER 8

FISCAL ACCOUNTS
INTRODUCTION During the fiscal year, in an effort to close the budgetary

W ith the expectation of a continuation of the slowdown in

the global economy during fiscal year (FY) 2009/10,
Central Government budget was formulated with the assumptions
of:
— Gross domestic product (GDP) contracting within the
range of 2.5 per cent to 3.5 per cent;
— inflation within the range of 11.0 per cent to 14.0 per
cent; and
— a current account deficit of 14.2 per cent of GDP.
The targets established in FY 2009/10 projected an
expenditure budget of $555.0 billion. Debt servicing at $309.4
billion accounted for 55.7 per cent of the total budget. Of the total
debt servicing cost, Amortization Payments accounted for $150.4
billion. The other major expenditure categories were Education
(12.6 per cent), National Security (8.2 per cent) and Health (5.3
per cent). Intake from Revenue & Grants was projected at $339.2
billion. Loan receipts as well as additional flows from new
revenue and administrative measures were expected to close the
gap between revenue and expenditure and result in a fiscal deficit
of 5.5 per cent of GDP.
The Debt Management Strategy for FY 2009/10 continued to
emphasize obtaining the lowest possible financing cost for the
Government. Additionally, the debt strategy sought to reduce long
term financing costs and maintain a sustainable level of risk.
shortfall, additional tax revenue were introduced as a result
of the worsening impact of the crisis on the fiscal accounts
which resulted from:
— larger than expected shortfall in revenue intake;
and
— contraction in funding available from the inter-
national capital market.
Central Government operations for the period, April –
December 2009, generated a fiscal deficit of $96.3 billion
which was $18.1 billion (23.1 per cent) higher than budgeted
(Figure 8A). This higher than planned fiscal deficit was the
net result of Revenue & Grants being $23.4 billion (10.1 per
cent) lower than expected and Expenditure which was $5.4
billion (1.7 per cent) below targeted levels.
Loan receipts for the period April – December 2009
amounted to $201.5 billion which was $24.9 billion above
budgeted levels. Of the total loan receipts, $188.2 billion
was from domestic sources, with the remainder ($13.2
billion) from external sources. The higher loan uptake by
Central Government was due in part to lower than
programmed revenue receipts and higher than anticipated
amortization during the period. Amortization payments at
$102.0 billion were $3.9 billion (3.9 per cent) higher than
programmed. Loan receipts were sufficient to meet
amortization payments and the fiscal deficit resulting in an
overall surplus of $2.9 billion.

400

300

200
J$ billion

100

-100

-200
2000/01 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

Fiscal Surplus/Deficit Expenditure Revenue

FIGURE 8A: FISCAL EXPENDITURE, REVENUE AND SURPLUS/DEFICIT FOR APRIL - DECEMBER
2000/01 - 2009/10
 8.2 8.2

TABLE 8.1a
SUMMARY OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT FISCAL OPERATIONS, 2005/06- 2009/10
($ Million)
Budget
Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec % Change
2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 2008/2009r 2009/2010p 2009/2010 FY 09/10-
Budget

i Revenue & Grants 127 833.1 148 353.5 174 485.4 196 438.0 207 579.5 231 003.5 -10.1
Tax Revenue 113 521.3 132 388.5 155 387.3 176 354.2 185 898.2 207 948.2 -10.6
Non-Tax Revenue 8 114.3 9 560.0 9 974.1 11 984.5 13 061.8 12 218.0 6.9
Bauxite Levy 2 374.0 3 038.2 3 987.0 4 150.4 1 498.0 104.5 1 333.5
Capital Revenue 3 440.6 1 876.9 3 895.3 1 106.9 1 360.3 1 971.9 -31.0
Grants 382.8 1 489.9 1 241.6 2 842.1 5 761.1 8 760.9 -34.2

ii Expenditure 157 292.1 186 712.7 214 535.0 253 313.0 303 854.0 309 222.8 -1.7
Recurrent Expenditure 145 669.6 168 880.8 188 237.9 233 543.8 280 134.2 280 730.1 -0.2
Programmes 30 754.8 36 350.7 47 286.9 54 258.5 53 183.9 61 590.6 -13.6
Wages & Salaries 47 176.9 58 265.7 63 521.3 83 273.7 94 192.6 95 307.3 -1.2
iii Interest 67 737.9 74 264.4 77 429.9 95 011.6 132 757.8 123 832.1 7.2
Domestic 50 689.5 53 986.9 53 366.2 67 942.5 96 991.7 89 148.4 8.8
External 17 048.5 20 277.5 24 063.7 27 069.2 35 766.1 34 683.7 3.1

Capital Expenditure 11 622.5 17 831.8 26 297.1 20 769.2 23 719.8 28 492.8 -16.8

Capital Programmes 11 622.5 17 831.8 26 297.1 20 769.2 23 719.8 28 492.8 -16.8

iv Fiscal Balance (Surplus + / Deficit -) (i - ii) -29 459.1 -38 359.2 -40 049.6 -56 875.0 -96 274.6 -78 219.3 -23.1
(Excludes Amortisation Payments)

v Primary Surplus/Deficit (i - ii + iii) 38 278.9 35 902.5 37 380.3 38 136.6 36 483.2 45 612.8 -20.0

vi Loan Receipts 137 439.7 135 654.8 118 780.9 135 169.6 201 465.7 176 612.7 14.1
External 3 6240.1 8 075.3 14 820.6 38 236.0 13 222.4 14 875.6 -11.1
Domestic 101 199.6 127 579.5 103 960.3 96 933.6 188 243.3 161 737.0 16.4

vii Divestment - -

viii Amortisation 105 968.9 93 771.5 88 388.2 92 838.7 102 033.2 98 167.2 3.9
External 28 300.0 13 211.0 29 129.9 20 889.3 18 978.8 17 262.6 9.9
Domestic 77 668.9 80 560.5 59 129.9 71 949.4 83 054.4 80 904.6 2.7

ix Overall Balance (Surplus +/Deficit -) - in- 2 012.0 3 524.2 -9 656.9 -14 544.1 3 157.9 226.2 1 296.1
cludes loan receipts and amortisation pay-
ments (iv + vi - viii)

Memo Items
Recurrent Surplus/Deficit (total revenue -21 277.1 -22 404.2 -17 647.8 -38 222.6 -73 915.0 -51 698.5 -43.0
and grants excluding capital revenue minus
recurrent expenditure)

Debt Servicing (iii + viii) 173 706.9 168 035.9 165 818.1 187 850.3 234 791.0 221 999.3 5.8
External 45 348.5 33 488.5 53 322.0 47 958.5 54 744.9 51 946.3 5.4
Domestic 128 358.4 134 547.4 112 496.1 139 891.9 180 046.1 170 053.0 5.9

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

FISCAL POLICY AND PROGRAMMES
Fiscal Policy
The Fiscal Responsibility Framework (FRF) has been
approved by Cabinet. The rationale behind this piece of legislation
requires the Government to act in a fiscally prudent manner
through legally binding principles of responsible fiscal
management. The FRF reviews Jamaica’s current fiscal
challenges and recommends that the subsequent legislative
framework should require the Government to conform to a
three-layered strategy: (i) Fiscal Responsibility Statement,
(ii) Fiscal Strategy Paper; and (iii) Debt Management
Ceiling (on annual new borrowing). It is worth noting that
the FRF Report includes limits on borrowing and
government guarantees, as well as strong measures for
discontinuing unbudgeted expenditure, with both
disciplinary provisions and an increased involvement of the
Public Accounts Committee of Parliament.
The Debt Management Strategy (Ministry Paper No.
25) presented to Parliament mentions that drafting
instructions were given for amendments to be made...“to
 8.3
streamline the public debt legislation”. In FY 2009/2010,
preparations will be made “for the enactment of new legislation
governing public debt management”.
Gross issuance of debt in FY 2009/2010 was programmed at
$215.8 billion (against $212.1 billion in FY2008/2009), including
J$29.4 billion for external debt (a 52.2 per cent decrease on the
external borrowing ceiling (from $ 56.4 billion in FY 2008/2009),
which demonstrates a positive trend for debt containment and
sustainability). The Debt Management Strategy’s component
dealing with an increased recourse to lower-cost of borrowing
through intensified engagement of multilaterals, has so far been
quite successful, with a combined total of US$951 million in loans
secured from the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank
and the Caribbean Development Bank.
The Public Bodies (PBs) Rationalisation Plan was drafted
for submission to Cabinet. It now lists 200 Active PBs and 74
Non-Active PBs. They are all categorised as Fully Financed or
Partially Financed by the Consolidated Fund or Self-Financed.
When rationalisation actions are contemplated, they fall in the
four following types:
— to be divested;
— to be merged with another or several other (designated)
PB;
— to be wound up;
— to be turned into an Executive Agency.
Building on past rationalisation achievements by which Public
Enterprises were merged, sold or reorganised, an Action Plan was
developed in May 2008, identifying three ways of dealing with the
existing portfolio of Public Enterprises:
— winding up of inactive entities;
— privatisation of entities of a commercial nature;
— mergers or other actions for improving efficiency.
A Quarterly Contracts Award (QCA) Report Regime is in
place, by which public contracts of $250 000 to under $4 000 000
are reported on to the Office of the Contractor General (OCG).
This has greatly enhanced transparency and accountability in the
use of public funds, as well as the potential for scrutiny from all
interested watch groups. The list of all National Contracts
Committee that are vetted, approved and registered contractors is
published and continuously updated on the OCG’s website, as
well as the particulars of all PBs referred to the Director of Public
Prosecution (DPP) by the OCG for breaches to, or failures to
comply with, the provisions of the Contractor General Act. Links
to prominent Anti-Corruption Websites are also constantly made
available on the OCG website. Plans are now being prepared for
putting all public expenditures on-line in real time.
The Public Procurement Regulations (December 12, 2008)
has been passed and will ensure the timely reporting on
compliance. Improvements in inventory management of
government assets through efficient disposal or redeployment
were achieved for 95.0 per cent of all surveyed assets by March 31,
2009.
FISCAL PROGRAMMES
Expenditure
The Expenditure Budget was targeted at $555.0 billion, a
nominal increase of $47.1 billion (9.3 per cent) compared with the
8.3
revised estimates for FY 2008/09. Debt servicing at $309.4
billion accounted for 55.7 per cent of the actual out-turn
compared with $274.0 billion or 54.8 per cent for the FY
2008/09 budget.
Debt servicing, the largest budgeted expenditure
allocation for FY 2009/10 was 12.9 per cent $35.4 billion
higher than the actual out-turn for FY 2008/09. This
increased allocation was predicated on among other factors,
a higher debt stock, depreciation of the Jamaican dollar and
the Government’s continued assumption of contingent
liabilities.
Budgeted Recurrent Expenditure allocation was $363.8
billion, 17.3 per cent higher than the actual out-turn for FY
2008/09. Allocation for Interest Payments of $159.0 billion
accounted for 43.7 per cent of Recurrent Expenditure (Table
8.1b). Non-debt expenditure (Wages & Salaries and
Programmes) amounted to $204.8 billion and includes a
$5.2 billion contingency for the wage settlement (retroactive
pay) for teachers and the Jamaica Defence Forces.
Projected Capital Expenditure for FY 2009/10 was
$191.3 billion, with amortization payments accounting for
$150.4 billion (1.1 per cent higher) while capital spending of
$40.9 billion was $517.5 million (1.3 per cent lower) for
capital programmes. Some of the major projects targeted to
receive funding FY 2009/10 included:
— $2.4 billion to the Constituency Development
Fund for projects in all 60 constituencies;
— $1.3 billon for the Montego Bay Convention
Centre;
— $1.1 bil lion to the Ja maica So cial In vest ment
Fund (JSIF) to as sist in its man date to de liver
basic services and infrastructure to the poor; and
— $0.4 billion for commencement of work on five
bridges in four parishes.
Revenue
The financing of the FY 2009/10 budget was designed
against the background of the global recession and falling
commodity prices. Tax Revenue was targeted to grow by
11.7 per cent over the actual intake for FY 2008/09, to
$274.9 million through the utilization of enhanced
collection mechanisms as well revenue measures. Tax
administration mechanisms included:
— improving compliance;
— enforcement;
— improving information and communication tech-
nology; and
— improving organization and management.
Additionally, the Government broadened the GCT base
and increased the taxes on fuel. These measures were aimed
at supplementing the revenue shortfall occasioned by
expected lower tax revenue from bauxite as well as lower
intake from tourism and remittances.
The FY2009/10 incorporated an additional revenue
package which was anticipated to generate an additional
$18.2 billion in revenue. This package incorporated: a)
increase on 1 000 sticks of cigarettes to $8 500 from $6 000;
b) a revision of the taxes on alcoholic beverages; and c) an
 8.4
additional $8.75 per litre on the Special Consumption Tax (SCT)
on petrol with a portion (20.0 per cent) of the collection used to
supplement the maintenance of the road network.
Capital revenue was targeted at $20.3 billion compared with
$1.9 billion collected in FY 2008/09. Higher collections are
predicated on anticipated proceeds from divestment of
government entities, loan repayments from the Development
Bank of Jamaica, and receipts from the Financial Institution
Services.
Grants flows were projected at $10.2 billion, 35.2 per cent
higher than the actual out-turn for the previous fiscal year. The
major grant-funded projects budgeted for FY 2009/10 are:
— Northern Coastal Highway (Segment III), $0.7 billion
– European Union (EU);
— Sugar Transformation, $0.9 billion – EU
— Tropical Storm Gustav Rehabilitation/Improved Gov-
ernance, $0.6 billion
— USAID; and
— Banana Support, $0.7 billion – EU.
With the expected continued decline in output from the
bauxite/alumina industry, Bauxite Levy receipts were anticipated
to total $0.1 billion, 96.9 per cent lower than the actual out-turn
2008/09. Revenue intake from Non-tax Revenue was expected to
total $16.9 billion, 4.8 per cent higher than the outturn for
FY2008/09 and is predicated on the following:
— increased collection from Custom User Fee (CUF); and
— higher departmental and miscellaneous revenue sys-
tem.
Loan receipts of $215.8 billion was $3.6 billion (1.7 per cent)
higher than the previous fiscal year with domestic borrowing
totalling totalled $186.4 billion. The programmed external
borrowing of $29.4 billion is expected from investment project
loans and policy based/development policy loans. (See Table
8.1b)
Other
18.1%
Health
5.3%
Security
8.2%
Education
12.6%
FIGURE 8B: BUDGETARY ALLOCATION FY2009/10
8.4
Supplementary Budget
Despite the original revenue enhancing package, tax
revenue remained inadequate in relation to planned
expenditure. In an effort to close budgetary shortfall and
generate additional tax revenue inflows, a Supplementary
Estimate with enhanced revenue measures was presented on
September 23, 2009 and was expected to generate $1.709
billion over the period October 2009 to March 2010. The
measures include: (1) an increase in the departure tax
to $1 800 from $1 000 for travel originating in Jamaica
which was anticipated to yield approximately $609 million
between October 2009 – March 2010; and (2) an increase in
the rate of GCT on telephone calls and instruments to 25.0
per cent from 20.0 per cent which was expected to generate
an additional $1.1 billion for the period, October 2009 –
March 2010.
In recognition of the continued underperformance of tax
revenue and in order to satisfy a Prior Action for the IMF
Agreement, a second tax package was presented on
December 17, 2009 for implementation on January 1, 2010.
This was intended to generate an additional $4.4 billion
(annualized $21.8 billion) for the remainder of the fiscal
year. These measures were revised on December 23 2009,
with the withdrawal of the widened GCT base. However,
other revenue measures were added to supplement the
expected loss in General Consumption Tax (GCT) revenue
(Table 8.4).
Debt Management Strategy
The Debt Management Strategy for FY 2009/10
continued to focus on minimizing the cost associated with
raising financing government operations. The strategy will
incorporate among other things:
— aspects of liability management geared towards
refinancing of the debt at lower rates;
Debt
55.8%
 8.5 8.5

— increase the fixed rate proportion of the domestic debt
portfolio;
— minimize the foreign exchange risk of the domestic
debt portfolio;
— increase transparency and predictability of debt issu-
ance operations; and
— continued engagements of bilateral and the re-engage-
ment of multilateral institutions.
Additionally, strategies will be implemented to ensure the
long-term sustainability of the public debt and reduce the
Government’s exposure to risk.
Functional Classification of Expenditure
The total recurrent non-debt budget expenditure for FY
2009/10 was budgeted at $204.8 billion, 10.8 per cent higher
than the out-turn of $184.8 billion for FY 2008/09.
Education, National Security and Health remained the main
priority areas of policy, collectively accounting for 26.2 per
cent compared with the previous year allocation of 27.2 per
cent of the total budget and 70.9 per cent ($145.2 billion) of
non-debt expenditure ($204.8 billion).
Education (recurrent and capital) was allocated $70.2
billion, accounting for 12.6 per cent of the total budget. Of
the total allocation for Education, $66.2 billion was for

TABLE 8.1b
SUMMARY OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT FISCAL OPERATIONS, 2005/06- 2009/10
($ Million)

Budget
2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008r 2008/2009r 2009/2010p 2009/2010

i Revenue & Grants 186 684.2 211 364.5 256 640.7 276 199.8 229 310.0 339 253.7
Tax Revenue 162 575.9 188 353.5 219 517.6 246 216.6 205 800.4 291 674.5
Non-Tax Revenue 11 802.4 14 048.5 18 235.0 16 081.3 14 414.1 16 857.2
Bauxite Levy 3 124.6 4 169.9 4 998.3 4 446.7 1 503.9 139.4
Capital Revenue 8 464.1 3 293.3 9 350.4 1 878.5 1 406.4 20 336.8
Grants 717.2 1 499.3 4 539.4 7 576.7 6 185.3 10 245.8

ii Expenditure 207 724.1 248 011.7 294 279.6 351 521.4 335 436.3 404 642.6
Recurrent Expenditure 192 250.0 224 505.3 252 877.9 310 149.5 310 371.7 363 788.2
Programmes 40 846.3 48 026.5 64 918.7 73 310.4 58 600.7 79 026.5
Wages & Salaries 63 108.1 78 660.5 86 235.8 111 533.9 104 421.4 125 754.2
iii Interest 88 295.7 97 817.9 101 723.4 125 305.2 147 349.7 159 007.4
Domestic 65 394.6 71 295.9 70 022.8 89 522.8 109 064.3 112 512.2
External 22 901.0 26 522.0 31 700.7 35 782.4 38 285.4 46 495.2

Capital Expenditure 15 474.1 23 506.4 41 401.7 41 371.9 25 064.6 40 854.4

IMF #1 a/c 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Capital Programmes 15 474.1 23 506.4 41 401.7 41 371.9 25 064.6 40 854.4

iv Fiscal Balance (Surplus + / Deficit -) (i - ii) -21 039.9 -36 647.2 -37 638.8 -75 321.6 -106 126.3 -65 388.9
(Excludes Amortisation Payments)

v Primary Surplus/Deficit (i - ii + iii) 67 255.8 61 170.7 64 084.6 49 983.5 41 223.4 80 718.5

vi Loan Receipts 184 708.9 161 297.2 135 240.3 212 148.6 238 910.8 215 786.4
External 53 788.5 32 348.3 16 835.5 56 362.5 13 781.0 29 407.9
Domestic 130 920.4 128 948.9 118 404.8 155 786.1 225 129.8 186 378.5

vii Divestment

viii Amortisation 139 971.2 122 049.7 106 115.4 148 733.2 122 332.5 150 397.5
External 33 116.7 16 934.3 37 293.4 49 826.1 21 576.0 30 234.5
Domestic 106 854.5 105 115.4 68 822.1 98 907.2 100 756.5 120 163.0

ix Overall Balance (Surplus +/Deficit -) - includes 23 697.8 2 600.3 -8 514 -11 906.1 10 452.0 -12 900.0
loan receipts and amortisation payments (iv + vi
- viii)

Memo Items
Recurrent Surplus/Deficit (total revenue and -14 029.9 -16 488.1 -5 587.6 -35 828.2 -80 732.9 -44 871.3
grants excluding capital revenue minus recurrent
expenditure)

Debt Servicing (iii + viii) 228 266.9 219 867.6 207 838.8 274 038.4 269 682.2 309 404.9
External 56 017.7 43 456.2 68 994.0 85 608.5 59 861.4 76 729.7
Domestic 172 241.1 176 411.4 138 844.8 188 429.9 209 820.8 232 675.3

p - data includes actual figures for April -January 2009/10

r - revised

Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

 8.6 8.6

TABLE 8.2
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF RECURRENT AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
FY 2005/2006 - 2009/2010
$ Million
2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 r 2009/10e
Total Total Total Total Total
A. GENERAL SERVICES
1 General Administration
963.7 1118.0 1 399.9 1 622.9 1 823.9
224 507.5 220 374.2 210 853.0 268 252.1 309 404.9
Foreign Services 1 560.2 2 224.4 2 334.4 2 610.4 2 605.4
Personnel Administration 2 058.6 2 094.8 3 019.6 3 178.3 2 947.6
Economic & Fiscal Management 5 499.5 6 555.5 6 988.3 9 868.6 10 745.3
Other General Services 11 721.6 13 195.3 17 119.1 17 934.8 18 992.5
Total General Administration 246 311.1 245 562.2 241 714.3 303 467.1 346 519.6

2 Security Services
Defence 3 804.3 5 099.8 6 004.6 9 802.8 10 018.9
Justice 2 414.5 2 654.5 2 916.0 3 757.6 3 695.7
Police 12 184.1 17 493.8 20 602.2 27 274.0 28 047.4
Correctional Services 2 826.8 2 782.9 3 001.2 3 750.4 3 970.9
Total Security Services 21 229.8 28 031.1 32 524.0 40 227.0 45 732.9

TOTAL A - General Services 267 540.9 273 593.3 274 238.3 343 694.1 392 252.5

B. SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

1 Education and Cultural Development 37 410.6 44 736.0 52 079.4 63 776.9 70 191.2
2 Health 14 281.0 18 910.4 23 349.4 28 859.0 29 291.4
3 Social Security and General Welfare 2 734.6 3 248.0 3 948.2 5 127.6 5 875.3
4 Housing 159.1 319.5 314.8 369.9 429.9
5 Water Supplies 702.7 938.0 1 946.4 2 008.0 2 136.6
6 Information and Broadcasting 363.4 396.4 478.7 714.6 606
7 Other Social and Community Services 5 131.3 8 434.2 9 209.3 7 624.6 6 936.0

TOTAL B - Social and Community Services 60 782.7 76 982.6 91 326.2 108 480.6 115 466.4

C. ECONOMIC SERVICES
1 Agriculture
3 359.9 4 083.3 5 897.1 7 670.2 9 540.2
2 Industry and Commerce 1 146.7 1 065.0 1 924.6 2 173.2 2 079.1
3 Transport and Communication 4 017.5 3 270.2 5 952.4 4 456.5 4 942.9
4 Roads 5 078.7 6 516..4 15 265.3 11 384.3 8 372.4
5 Fuel and Power 247.3 274.8 382.1 3 426.6 4 048.5
6 Environmental Protection 384.5 549.8 561.9 690.2 636.7
7 Other Economic Services 6 009.4 6 490.2 13 115.5 33 746.2 21 621.2

TOTAL C - Economic Services 20 243.9 15 733.4 43 098.9 63 547.2 51 241.0

D. MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES

1 Miscellaneous - - - - -
2 Other Unallocatable Expenditure - - - - -

TOTAL D - Miscellaneous Services - - - - -

GROSS TOTAL 348 567.5 366 309.2 408 663.4 515 721.9 558 959.9

Less Appropriation-in-Aid 2 289.3 3 025.2 3 374.6 7 749.9 3 919.8

NET TOTAL 346 278.3 363 284.0 405 288.8 507 972.1 555 040.1

e - estimated
r - revised
Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service:Financial Statement and Revenue estimates 2009/2010

recurrent expenditure, 11.1 per cent higher than the revised — Police - $28.0 billion;
estimates for FY 2008/09.
— Jamaica Defence Force - $10.0 billion;
Security Services was allocated $45.7 billion, 8.2 per cent of
the total budget and 22.3 per cent of the non-debt budget. Of this — Justice - $3.7 billion; and
allocation, $43.1 billion was for recurrent expenditures compared — Correctional Services - $4.0 billion.
with the revised estimate of $37.7 billion for FY 2008/09. The
recurrent allocations to the Security Services were:
 8.7
Health Services were programmed to receive $29.3 billion
which represented 5.3 per cent of the budget and 14.3 per cent of
the non-debt budget. Of the total budget for Health, $28.3 billion
was for recurrent expenditure, $0.5 billion higher than the revised
estimates for FY 2008/09.
FISCAL PERFORMANCE
Budget versus Actual Outcome
Central Government operations for April – December 2009
generated a deficit of $96.3 billion, which was $18.1 billion more
than programmed (Table 81a). This deviation resulted from a
$22.1 billion shortfall in Revenue & Grants which outweighed the
$5.4 billon lower than expected spending. This shortfall in
Revenue and Grants was due mainly to the downturn in economic
activity associated with the impact of the global financial and
economic crises.
Revenue & Grants at $207.6 billion was 10.1 per cent lower
than expected. (Table 8.3a) This lower inflow was due to shortfalls
in all categories with the exception of Non-tax revenue,
Environmental Levy and Bauxite Levy which were $0.8 billion,
$0.2 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, higher than budgeted.
The performance by Bauxite Levy was due mainly to the payment
of arrears dating back to 2008. For Environmental Levy, the
improved performance was related to the fact that the Levy is
applicable to virtually all imports.
Income and Profit taxes, which stood at $78.8 billion was 4.0
per cent ($3.3 billion) lower than anticipated. The largest absolute
short-fall was recorded by Other Companies and Other
Individuals which were $1.9 billion (11.5 per cent) and $1.6
billion (47.8 per cent), respectively, lower than planned. The
under-performance by Other Companies was related to the lower
than expected level of economic activity and the resultant fall in
companies profits. Collections from PAYE and Tax on Interest
were $0.3 billion and $0.6 billion, respectively higher than
expected. The higher Tax on Interest can be related to the higher
than expected interest rates during the first half of the year as well
as higher interest costs, due in part to the higher debt stock.
Tax receipts from Production & Consumption were $8.7
billion (14.8 per cent) lower than budget. This out-turn was mainly
due to GCT (Local) and Special Consumption Tax (SCT) (Local)
being $4.6 billion and $2.4 billion lower than anticipated as a
result in deeper than expected declines in consumption which
resulted in part from the slowdown in economic activities as well
as the decline in remittance flows. Additionally, the lower level of
collections from Stamp Duty ($1.6 billion lower) was linked to the
down-turn in activity in the Real Estate sector and the earlier than
planned adjustment to Stamp duty and Transfer taxes. The
reduction in stamp duty and transfer taxes was programmed for
January 2010 but was fast-forwarded to September in order to
positively influence the real estate market.
Inflows from International Trade taxes were $10.2 billion
(15.7 per cent) lower than expected due to reduced intake from all
sub-categories except Travel Tax. Travel tax receipts were
buoyed in part by the adjustment to travel tax in September as
indicated in the Supplementary Budget. The largest negative
deviation was due mainly to reductions in the intake from GCT
imports ($5.6 billion), Custom Duty ($2.9 billion) and SCT import
($1.7 billion).
For April - December 2009, Central Government expenditure
was $303.9 billion, 1.7 per cent ($5.4 billion) lower than
budgeted. Expenditure associated with Wages & Salaries of $94.2
billion was $1.1 billion (1.2 per cent) lower than budgeted.
8.7
Programmes expenditure (pension payments, utility,
stationery, etc) at $53.2 billion was $8.4 billion (13.6 per
cent) below target (see Table 8.1a). The lower than
anticipated Programmes expenditure (excluding pension
payments) reflected a commitment by the Government to
reduce expenditure associated with non-debt expenditure as
interest payments was $8.9 billion (7.2 per cent) above
expectation due to both domestic and external cost
exceeding projected levels. Domestic interest payments at
$97.0 billion were $7.8 billion (8.8 per cent) higher than
targeted as a result of the higher than anticipated interest
costs. External interest payments were $1.1 billion (3.1 per
cent) higher than planned due to unplanned payment on
behalf of National Road Reconstruction Operating
Company (NRROC). Capital expenditure at $23.7 billion
was $4.8 billion (16.8 per cent) lower than budgeted due to
the slower pace of project activity and lower than expected
revenue flows.
Actual Outcome April – December 2009 versus Ac-
tual Outcome April – December 2008
The fiscal deficit generated for April – December 2009
was $39.4 billion (69.3 per cent) higher than the
corresponding period of 2008. This resulted from a $50.5
billion (20.0 per cent) increase in Expenditure which
outweighed the $11.1 billion (5.7 per cent) increase in
Revenue & Grants. The primary surplus was $1.7 billion
(4.3 per cent) lower than the corresponding period of 2008.
The higher out-turn for total Expenditure for April –
December 2008 was due mainly to Recurrent Expenditure
increasing by $47.6 billion (20.5 per cent). Increases were
recorded in all sub-categories except Programmes which
was $1.1 billion lower. Wages & Salaries was $10.9 billion
(13.1 per cent) higher due in part to retroactive pay to
teachers and performance related adjustments to wages and
salaries for public sector workers. Interest payments
increased by $37.7 billion (39.7 per cent) with Domestic and
External interest costs increasing by $29.0 billion and $8.7
billion respectively, compared with the corresponding
period of 2008. The increased external cost was due to the
higher external debt stock as well as movements in the
foreign exchange rate. The higher domestic debt was
attributable mainly to the increased reliance on the domestic
market for budgetary support given the global credit crunch,
occasioned by the financial crisis which impacted the
international capital markets.
Preliminary out-turn of Central Government’s fiscal
operations for April – December 2009 indicated that the
higher receipts of $11.1 billion relative to the corresponding
period in 2008 was due to increases in all sub-groups with
the exception of Bauxite Levy. Tax Revenue was $9.6 billion
(5.4 percent) higher than the corresponding period in 2008
and was due mainly to higher intake by the Sub-groups
International Trade (up $5.0 billion) and Income & Profits
(up $4.9 billion). The increased intake from International
Trade was due mainly to increases in SCT imports (up $7.5
billion). This increase was due to the higher tax on petroleum
products as a result of the tax measure introduced in April
2009. The improved performance in Income & Profits taxes
was due mainly to Tax on interest and PAYE increasing by
$5.8 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively. Tax on interest
was impacted by the higher than anticipated domestic
interest costs while PAYE was impacted by the higher salary
level.
 8.8 8.8

TABLE 8.3a
TAX REVENUE COLLECTIONS, 2005/06 - 2009/10
J$Million
Budget % Change
Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec Apr-Dec FY2009/10
2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008p 2008/2009r 2009/2010p 2009/2010 - Budget

TOTAL REVENUE & 127 833.1 148 353.5 174 485.4 196 438 207 579.5 231 003.5 -10.1
GRANTS

i) TAX REVENUE 113 521.3 132 388.5 155 387.3 176 354.2 185 898.2 207 948.2 -10.6

Income and Profits 43 393.4 51 334.9 63 039.6 73 896.2 78 789.1 82 051.4 -4.0
Bauxite/Alumina 421.8 509.4 722.1 0.2 19.2 0.0 -
Other Companies 7 564.2 9 923.8 11 183.2 15 690.5 14 274.5 16 137.2 -11.5
PAYE 24 453.9 29 031.4 33 598.4 41 020.6 42 124.4 41 841.3 0.7
Tax on Dividend 124.7 150.9 1 865.4 152.1 218.8 1 016.1 -78.5
Other Individuals 1 073.9 1 160.3 1 461.2 2 386.0 1 696.3 3 249.3 -47.8
Tax on Interest 9 754.9 10 559.1 14 209.3 14 646.6 20 455.9 19 807.5 3.3

Environmental Levy 1 081.9 1 788.8 1 641.7 1 484.8 10.6

Production and Consumption 35 793.3 41 698.2 46 808.2 50 675.0 50 478.8 59 213.9 -14.8
SCT 2 524.8 2 304.6 2 757.7 2 859.4 3 520.0 5 927.8 -40.6
Motor Vehicle Licenses 702.7 712.4 759.6 1 225.7 1 277.2 1 317.7 -3.1
Other Licenses 118.3 211.5 244.9 299.4 371.2 299.8 23.8
Betting, Gaming and Lottery 748.3 786.7 856.4 982.9 1 095.2 1 029.6 6.4
Education Tax 5 161.2 6 531.8 7 221.0 8 442.0 8 855.3 9 072.1 -2.4
Contractors Levy 343.7 570.3 642.0 562.9 588.9 610.6 -3.6
GCT(Local) 20 709.2 24 308.1 26 996.7 29 661.1 30 069.7 34 632.9 -13.2
Stamp Duty(Local) 5 485.1 6 272.7 7 329.9 6 641.8 4 701.3 9 323.4 -49.6

International Trade 34 334.6 39 355.4 44 457.6 49 994.5 54 988.7 65 198.1 -15.7

Customs Duty 11 709.2 12 487.7 14 245.1 15 572.3 14 796.3 17 705.4 -16.4
Stamp Duty 796.5 815.0 834.3 911.7 929.5 1 054.8 -11.9
Travel Tax 1 464.9 1 488.7 1 612.8 1 177.5 1 261.3 1 115.1 13.1
GCT(Imports) 14 334.8 18 089.5 21 710.3 22 653.7 20 833.6 26 474.7 -21.3
SCT (Imports) 6 029.2 6 474.5 6 055.2 9 679.3 17 168.0 18 848.1 -8.9

ii) NON-TAX REVENUE 8 114.3 9 560.0 9 974.1 11 984.5 13 061.8 12 218.0 6.9

iii) BAUXITE LEVY 2 374.0 3 038.2 3 987.0 4 150.4 1 498.0 104.5 1333.5

iv) CAPITAL REVENUE 3 440.6 1 876.9 3 895.3 1 106.9 1 360.3 1 971.9 -31.0

v) GRANTS 382.8 1 489.9 1 241.6 2 842.1 5 761.1 8 760.9 -34.2

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

Collections from Production & Consumption were $0.2
billion lower than the corresponding period in 2008, due mainly to
Stamp Duty which declined by $1.9 billion and out-weighed
increases recorded by other items in this category.
Financing
Loan Receipts for April – December 2009 was $201.5 billion,
$24.9 billion (14.1 per cent) higher than budgeted and $66.3
billion (49.0 per cent) above the April – December 2008 out-turn.
The higher than planned Loan Receipts were due mainly to higher
domestic borrowing which was $26.5 billion above budget and
$91.3 billion above the comparable period in 2008. The increased
reliance on the domestic market to raise amounts to finance the
budget resulted from a shortfall in tax revenues. External
borrowing at $13.2 billon was 11.1 per cent lower than
programmed and 65.4 per cent below 2008 borrowing, due to
unfavourable external financial climate which resulted from
the global financial meltdown.
Amortization payments at $102.0 billon was $3.9 billion
(3.9 per cent) higher than budgeted levels. The higher than
planned amortization resulted mainly from:(a) higher than
projected repayments of $2.1 billion for domestic payment;
and (b) external payments which was approximately $1.7
billion more than expected. Loans Receipts for the review
period was sufficient to cover amortization payments and
the fiscal deficit and resulted in an Overall surplus of $3.2
billion. The Primary Surplus at $36.5 billion was $9.1 billion
(20.0 per cent) less than the programmed levels for April –
December 2009 (see Table 8.1a).
 8.9 8.9

TABLE 8.3b
TAX REVENUE COLLECTIONS, 2005/06 - 2009/10
J$Million
FY2009/10
2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008r 2008/2009r 2009/2010p Budget

TOTAL REVENUE & GRANTS 186 684.2 211 364.5 256640.7 276 199.8 229 310.0 339 253.7

i) TAX REVENUE 162 575.9 188 353.5 219 517.6 246 216.6 205 800.4 291 674.5

Income and Profits 66 492.7 76 321.1 92 625.7 107 394.9 86 523.0 119 241.1
Bauxite/Alumina 887.8 1 413.3 731.5 0.2 19.2 -
Other Companies 15 016.7 16 872.8 20 463.3 26 859.5 14 727.9 29 086.4
PAYE 34 553.0 40 965.8 48 160.1 57 473.1 47 275.8 58 715.4
Tax on Dividend 276.6 213.3 1 926.8 163.3 315.4 1 517.3
Other Individuals 2 008.6 2 386.4 3 305.3 4 155.7 1 858.6 4 835.7
Tax on Interest 13 750.0 14 469.6 18 038.6 18 743.1 22 326.1 25 086.2

Environmental Levy - - 1 698.0 2 293.2 1 774.5 2 084.6

Production and Consumption 50 100.2 58 457.0 64 268.9 69 253.2 57 030.2 81 365.9

SCT 3 238.9 4 042.8 3 523.7 4 611.8 4 458.4 8 483.0
Motor Vehicle Licenses 953.7 964.5 1 020.3 1 682.3 1 414.5 1 815.8
Other Licenses 178.9 276.5 313.4 379.9 392.3 410.0
Betting, Gaming and Lottery 1 048.5 1 145.2 1 243.8 1 285.7 1 232.8 1 387.7
Education Tax 7 357.0 9 209.2 10 261.0 11 773.6 10 062.3 12 801.5
Contractors Levy 506.6 834.9 814.3 785.7 647.3 848.0
GCT(Local) 29 436.0 33 306.0 37 446.9 40 415.7 33 683.7 47 201.9
Stamp Duty(Local) 7 380.6 8 677.9 9 645.6 8 318.5 5 138.9 8 418.0

International Trade 45 983.0 53 575.3 60 925.0 67 275.3 60 472.7 88 983.0

Customs Duty 15 388.0 16 881.9 19 207.5 20 823.0 15 947.1 23 970.3
Stamp Duty 1 094.5 1 128.5 1 190.8 1 274.6 1 022.7 1 390.5
Travel Tax 2 017.5 2 019.7 2 247.6 1 569.9 1 421.9 1 519.6
GCT(Imports) 19 124.3 24 333.1 29 250.1 29 352.7 22 964.4 35 972.2
SCT (Imports) 8 358.6 9 212.1 9 029.0 14 255.2 19 116.5 26 130.4

ii) NON-TAX REVENUE 11 802.4 14 048.5 18 235.0 16 081.3 14,414.1 16 857.2

iii) BAUXITE LEVY 3 124.6 4 169.9 4 998.3 4 446.7 1 503.9 139.4

iv) CAPITAL REVENUE 8 464.1 3 293.3 9 350.4 1 878.5 1 406.4 20 336.8

v) GRANTS 717.2 1 499.3 4 539.4 7 576.7 6 185.3 10 245.8

p - data includes actual figures for April -January 2009/10

r - revised

Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

Debt Stock
The total stock of debt at the end of December 2009 was $1
344.8 billion, an increase of 20.1 per cent compared with the stock
of debts at the end of December 2008. This increase in the stock of
debt was mainly due to the stock of domestic debt increasing by
23.8 per cent. The stock of external debt denominated in United
States dollar increased by 3.9 per cent.
The increase in the stock of external debt was due mainly to
higher stock owed to Multilateral and Bilateral Creditors as the
stock owed to private creditors declined by 6.0 per cent to US$4.1
billion. The stock owed to multilateral increased by 18.4 per cent
to $1.4 billion while that owed to Bilateral creditors ($6.6 billon)
increased by 3.9 per cent.
Total domestic debt at the end of December 2009 was $754.0
billion, 23.8 per cent higher than at the end of December 2008.
This increase was mainly due to the stock of Investment
Debentures/Bonds at $449.4 billion which was 49.5 per cent
higher.
OUTLOOK
For the period, April - January of FY 2009/10, Central
Government operations generated a fiscal deficit of $106.1
billion which was $22.3 billion higher than planned.
Revenue& Grants was $29.1 billion less than expected while
total expenditure was $6.7 billion lower than budgeted. The
lower Revenue & Grants flows were due mainly to a $27.8
billion shortfall from Tax Revenue. With respect to recurrent
expenditure, the lower spending on programmes (down 14.0
per cent) and wages and salaries (down 1.0 per cent) was
offset by higher interest costs (up 8.0 per cent), resulting in
recurrent expenditure being 0.1 per cent above target.
 8.10
TABLE 8.4
OVERALL SUMMARY OF ENHANCED REVENUE MEASURES
December 17, 2009
Measure $ billion
Increase in the Standard Rate of GCT to 17.5 per cent from 3.6
16.5 per cent
Re-introduction of the Ad Valorem Component of the SCT 9.4
on fuel.
Removal of the Exempt GCT Status of Electricity for on us- 1.2
age exceeding 200 kilowatt hours of electricity per month for
residential customers
Increase in SCT on Cigarettes to $10 500 per 1 000 sticks 1.41
from $8 500.
Expansion of the GCT Base 6.2
Total Revenue 21.81
Capital spending of $25.1 billion was $7.0 billion (21.9 per cent)
below target.
OTHER DEVELOPMENT
The decline in foreign exchange inflows to the export sectors
of the economy, the negative impact on tax revenues stemming
from the economic downturn, and the unfavourable external
borrowing environment, resulted in the Government of Jamaica
initiating talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a
27-month Stand-By Agreement (SBA). An initial step towards
this Agreement entailed the completion of three prior actions
performance criteria which were:
— the implementation of a tax policy package by Decem-
ber 2009 aimed at yielding revenue amounting to ap-
proximately 2.0 per cent of GDP;
— the implementation of a debt exchange programme by
January 2010. On January 14, 2010 Jamaica Debt Ex-
change (JDX) Programme was launched. The JDX in-
volved a voluntary exchange of existing domestic
bonds1 for new bonds of the same principal value, but
which have lower interest rates and longer maturities.
The $700 million JDX programme is expected to yield
in ter est sav ings to the Gov ern ment of Jamaica of up
to $40.0 billion; and
1 Excluding Treasury Bills
8.10
December 23, 2009
Measure $ billion
Increase in the Standard Rate of GCT to 17.5 per cent from 3.6
16.5 per cent
Re-introduction of the Ad Valorem Component of the SCT 9.4
on fuel.
10 per cent rate of GCT charge on residential customers for 1.453
usage exceeding 200 kilowatt hours of electricity per month.
10 per cent rate of GCT to supply electricity to Commercial
Customers per month.
Increase in SCT on Cigarettes to $10 500 per 1 000 sticks 1.4
from $8 500.
Increase in the rate of GCT Appilcable to the Tourism Sector 1.2
Pre-payment of GCT at a rate of 22.5 per cent for commer- 2.9
cial imported goods at Customs
Increase in Income Tax for High earners 1.317
Increase in Licence Fees for Luxury Vehicles 0.032
The Removal of certain organization from the Third 0.025
SchedulePart Three, Item 8 to the Custom Act
Increase in CET rate on certain Items 0.485
Total Revenue 21.812
Source: Minisrty of Finance and the Public Sector
— initiate plans for the divestment or liquidation of
the national airline, Air Jamaica.
As a result of the successful completion of these prior
actions, the Board of Governors of the IMF on February 4,
2010 approved Jamaica’s application for a 27-month SBA
loan which will assist the government in completing the
following:
— a debt management strategy that will reduce the
debt servicing costs;
— reforms of the financial sector in an effort to re-
duce risks; and
— the development of a fiscal consolidation strategy
aimed at streamlining expenditure and reforming
the public sector, including the divestment of
some non-core public bodies.
Following the approval of the SBA by the IMF, the first
tranche of US$640 million was disbursed. The signing of the
SBA loan facilitated the following:
— improved confidence in the Jamaican economy;
— receipt of the first IMF tranche which increased
the gross international reserves to US$2.2 billion
representing 16.9 weeks of goods and services
imports;
 8.11 8.11

TABLE 8.5
JAMAICA: MEDIUM TREM MACRO-ECONOMIC TARGETS

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14

GDP (Real) (% Change) 0.6 -1.6 -3.5 0.6 1.9 1.9 2.0
GDP @ Current Market Prices 923.0 1 037 1 071 1 194 1 317 1 445 1 582

Inflation
Annual (point-to-point) 19.9 12.4 12.2 7.3 7.0 6.5 6.0
Annual Average 12.4 20.2 9.0 11.2 7.1 6.7 6.3

Balance of Payments
Current Account/GDP -16.9 -18.0 -9.4 -8.8 -6.6 -5.9 -5.0

NIR 2 083 1 629 1 378 1 078 1 325 1 450 1 761

Gross Reserves 2 106 1 664 2 051 2 151 2 598 2 640 2 579
Gross Reserves in weeks of imports 12.1 12.8 14.8 14.6 17.0 16.7 15.8

Fiscal Balance -3.8 -1.3 -10.0 -6.5 -4.3 -2.6 -0.7

Primary Balance 7.8 4.8 6.2 7.0 7.7 8.3 9.1

Ministry of Finance and the Public Service

— a further rate reduction of 50 basis points on the 30-day
open market instruments from 10.5 per cent per annum
to 10.0 per cent per annum; and
— the expected increase in foreign exchange inflows of
US$1.1 billion from other multilaterals.
Further disbursements will be dependent on successful
completion of the accompanying conditionality. The
medium term targets for the IMF Stand-By Agreement are
listed in Table 8.5.¢
CHAPTER 9

FINANCE & INSURANCE SERVICES

INTRODUCTION POLICY DEVELOPMENTS

R eal value added for the Finance & Insurance Services in-
dustry grew by 1.0 per cent during 2009 (Figure 9A).
This performance was due in part to:
– increased interest income; and
– increased mortgage activity at building societies.
Growth in the industry was, however,stymied by the
negative effect of the global financial and economic crisis on the
Jamaican economy. This led to a decline in economic activities;
a decline in business and consumer confidence; tightening in the
access to credit on the international market; and higher
unemployment. As a consequence of these effects:
– income earning assets of FIA Institutions1 declined due
to reduced loans and advances;
The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) and the Financial Services
Commission (FSC) continued to strengthen their regulatory
framework in order to maintain stability in the industry,
particularly in the context of the global financial and economic
crisis, as well as to conform to new developments in
international standards.
LEGISLATIVE DEVELOPMENTS
Bank of Jamaica Act (Amendment) Act
During 2009, the Bank of Jamaica (Amendment) Act was
passed in the Houses of Parliament. This amendment
increased the number of coins that constitute legal tender in a
transaction. The new limit permits a maximum of 50 coins, in
any combination of denominations currently in circulation.

– there was an increase in the non-performing loans to to-
tal loans ratio;
– disruption of credit lines extended to local financial in-
stitutions led to margin calls; and
– the number of trading transactions on the Jamaica Stock
Exchange (JSE) declined.
Deposit Insurance (Amendment) Act
A second draft of the Bill to amend the Deposit Insurance
(Amendment) Act was circulated to stakeholders following
review of the Act and incorporation of amendments proposed
by stakeholders.

8
6
cent
ent

4
Per C
Per

2
0
-2
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

Year
Year

FIGURE 9A: REAL VALUE ADDED GROWTH FOR FINANCE & INSURANCE SERVICES, 2000-2009

1 These are licensees under the Financial Institutions Act (FIA).

 9.2

Insurance (Amendment) Act The Pensions (Superannuation Fund and Retirement

Legislation was drafted to facilitate amendments to the
Insurance Act, to ensure that it addresses the new developments
in the insurance industry. The first draft of the Bill to amend the
Insurance (Amendment) Act was circulated to stakeholders for
review. The Bill seeks to address weaknesses identified in the
legislation and to harmonize the procedures for hearings,
appeals and unclaimed balances with other financial industry
legislation.
Enactment of Credit Report Legislation
The legislative process to facilitate the establishment of a
Credit Bureau advanced with the completion of a review of the
Credit Reporting Bill by a Joint Select Committee of
Parliament. The discussion ended in December 2009 and the
Committee report tabled in the Lower House of Parliament.
Legislation on credit information is expected to assist financial
institutions to improve their assessment of the credit risk of their
clients.
Industrial and Provident Societies Act
Amendments to the Industrial and Provident Societies Act
and accompanying Regulations were finalized. The Act and
Regulations were being amended to strengthen the supervisory
framework governing these societies and to update the schedule
of fees.
Schemes) Act, 2004
During 2009, the FSC submitted additional drafting
instructions through the Ministry of Finance and the Public
Service to the Chief Parliamentary Counsel regarding
conditional approval for the registration of Superannuation
Funds and Retirement Schemes. This was done in an effort to
expedite the registration process. These amendments will
allow the FSC to approve a Fund or Scheme once specific
requirements for approvals are met. The Funds and Schemes
will then be given a time period within which to satisfy the
remaining conditions stipulated at the time of approval.
Granting conditional approval by the FSC will bring the Funds
and Schemes within the full regulatory remit of the FSC.
Money Laundering Financial Investigations Division
(FID) Bill
The Bill having been tabled in Parliament in 2008, during
2009 a Joint Select Committee of Parliament reviewed the
presentations made by stakeholder groups, including the
Jamaica Bankers Association and the Bar Association of
Jamaica, as well as a representative from the Norman Manley
Law School.
Reform of the National Payment System2
During the period under review, the legislative process to
facilitate the regulation of Jamaica’s national payment system
was further advanced following the submission of National

TABLE 9.1
A SUMMARY OF LEGISLATIVE DEVELOPMENTS, 2005- 2009
2009
The Bank of Jamaica (Amendment) Act 2009 - revision of section 16 now reflects that payments made in coins of an amount not exceeding the face value of a
maximum of 50 coins in any combination of denominations constututes legal tender.
2008
The Credit Bill was tabled in Parliament in July 2008.
The Financial Investigation Division Bill was tabled in Parliament on November 12, 2008.
2007
The Proceeds of Crime Act was passed in Parliament in March 2007 and came into effect during May 2007
Anit-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism Guidance Notes were revised, incorporating gaps identified during the Caribbean Financial Action
Task Force 2005 Anti-Money Laundering Country Review and issued to the industry in March 2007.
2006
In March 2006, four regulations were passed in the Houses of Parliament, allowing the Financial Services Commission to begin active supervision of the
pensions industry.
In August 2006, the sale, issue and distribution of "stored valued cards" were designated as "banking business".
Anit-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism Guidance Notes were amended.
2005
The Pensions (Superannuation Fund and Retirement Schemes) Act was made effective in March 2005.
The Companies Act, 2004 became effective in February 2005.
The Financial Services Commission (Overseas Regulatory Authority) (Disclosure), Regulations 2005, became effective on May 6, 2005.
The Anti-Money Laundering / Counter-Financing of Terrorism came into effect on February 3, 2005.

Source: Compiled by Planning Institute of Jamaica

2 The National Payment System comprises a set of payment instruments, procedures and rules whereby funds are transferred among a
defined group of participants to facilitate the circulation of money within the country and internationally.

Payments System Bill to the Legislation Committee of Cabinet
for consideration. After the Legislation Committee approves the
Bill, Cabinet’s approval will be sought to have it tabled in the
Houses of Parliament, in keeping with legislative procedure.
Combating Financing of Terrorism
The Terrorism Prevention (Reporting Entities) Regulations,
which deals with preventing financial support for terrorism, was
re-drafted for further review by stakeholders. The next step is for
the Bill to be finalized and tabled in the Houses of Parliament.
The Regulations impose various reporting requirements that
financial institutions must meet under the Terrorism Prevention
Act. In accordance with the Regulations and the Act, the
Financial Investigation Division (FID) of the Ministry of
Finance and Public Service will be responsible for enforcing
these requirements.
Financial Services Commission (FSC)
Bulletins & Guidelines3
During 2009, a number of bulletins and guidelines were
released by the FSC. These included:
Pensions Industry
– Bulletin: Accredited Actuarial Associations Recog-
nised by the Financial Services Commission under Sec-
tion 2 of The Pensions (Superannuation Funds and Re-
tirement Schemes) Act, 2004 and Regulation 11 of The
Pen sions (Su per an nu a tion Funds and Re tire ment
Schemes) (Governance) Regulations, 2006 March 2009
AR-GEN-09/03-0004: This bulletin provides a list of
Actuarial Associations that are recognized by the FSC.
– Bulletin: Leases PR-GUID-09/04-0013: This bulletin
provides insight to the accounting standards and legisla-
tive requirements relating to the treatment of leases.
– Bulletin: Content of the Business Plan
PR-GUID-09/04-0014: This bulletin establishes the
minimum standard regarding the content of the Busi-
ness Plan to be provided to the FSC setting forth how an
applicant intends to manage its pensions business.
– Information Bulletin: Statutory Filings for Administra-
tors and Investment Managers PR-GUID-09/04-0015:
This guideline alerts Administrators and Investment
Managers of the timelines for the admission of certain
documents to the FSC.
– Information Bulletin: Statutory Filings for Trustees
PR-GUID-09/04-0016: This guideline serves to alert
Trustees of the timelines for the submission of certain
documents to the FSC. It is intended to assist Trustees in
discharging their duty to ensure that actions are taken to
achieve compliance with the regulatory requirements.
– Guideline on Conversion PR-GUID-09/04-0017: This
serves to guide plan conversions from a defined benefit
plan to a defined contribution plan and outlines the
3 Bulletins and guidelines are used by the Commission to provide information and guidance to licensees, registrants and the general
public. They are circulated to relevant industry entities and posted on the Commission’s website for comments and feedback.
9.3
FSC’s expectations regarding the approaches which
may be adopted.
Insurance Industry
– Discussion Paper on the Criteria for the Use of Catas-
trophe Models for Solvency Assessment under Jamai-
can Minimum Capital Test February 2009 AR-CON-
SUL-09/03-0004: This discussion paper illustrates the
proposed requirements that an insurer must satisfy to
use the model-generated method for solvency assess-
ment under the Jamaican Minimum Capital Test.
– Stress Testing – Gen eral In sur ance Com pa nies
IR-CONSUL-09/04-0004: This guideline deals with
the importance of developing stress testing mecha-
nisms to mitigate the various risks facing General
Insurance companies.
– Guidelines on Market Conduct for all insurers and in-
termediaries registered to conduct insurance business
in Jamaica IR-CONSUL-09/04-0005: The purpose of
this guideline is to reinforce the provision of the exist-
ing laws and regulations in order to ensure that insur-
ers and intermediaries develop and adopt standards
that will ensure sound conduct in the market.
– Draft Guidelines for Business Plans to be Submitted
to the Financial Services Commission on an Annual
Basis IR-CONSUL-09/04-0006: This guideline estab-
lishes the minimum standard regarding the content of
the Business Plan to be provided to the FSC, setting
forth how an insurance company intends to manage its
business.
– Information Bulletin: Filing Requirements for an As-
sociation of Underwriters IR-GUID-09/04-0011: The
purpose of this bulletin is to provide a listing of infor-
mation that is required to be filed with the FSC by an
association of underwriters, registered to conduct
insurance business in Jamaica.
– Draft Guidelines on the Criteria for Auditors and Ac-
tu ar ies to Func tion in the In sur ance In dus try
IR-GUID-09/06-0012: This draft guideline discusses
the criteria required by auditors and actuaries to func-
tion in the insurance industry and for actuaries and au-
ditors to be approved by the Commission before com-
mencement of duties with an insurance entity.
– B u l l e t i n o n E a r l y Wa r n i n g R a t i o s
IR-ADVI-09/08-0001: This bulletin provides an out-
line of the proposed changes to some of the original
early warning ratios so as to allow the FSC to better as-
sess the financial reports that are submitted.
– Bulletin: Definition of Persons to be Registered as
Sales Representatives IR-ADVI-09/08-0002: This
guideline discusses specific scenarios under which a
person in an insurance entity is required to be regis-
tered as a ‘sales representative’, i.e. a person who may
lawfully solicit or negotiate insurance business. This
guideline further clarifies the FSC’s expectations re-
garding the minimum standards to be adhered to by
 9.4
general insurance companies in seeking registration for
their sales representatives.
– Market Conduct Guidelines on Best Practice for Motor
Insurance Claims IR-GUID-09/08-0013: The Claims
Best Practice Guidelines promulgated in this document
clarify the FSC’s expectations regarding the minimum
standards to be observed by general insurance compa-
nies in the settlement of motor vehicle claims.
– Instructions: Minimum Capital Test for General Insur-
ance Companies and Branches of Foreign Companies
Carrying on General Insurance Business in Jamaica
September 2009 AR–GUID-09/11-0011: This consulta-
tive paper provides the general framework for the cal-
culation of the Minimum Capital Test (“MCT”) which
is based on the Canadian insurance regulator’s MCT
and assesses the riskiness of assets and policy liabilities
by applying various factors and margins. It is an “ex-
cess of cap ital” measure which compares capital
available to capital required.
Securities Industry:
– Securities Industry Advisory: New Requirements for
Unit Trusts August 21, 2009 SR-ADVI-09/08-0003:
This advisory outlines the new requirements that will
come into effect once the regulation governing unit
trusts has been promulgated into law.
Anti-Money Laundering Framework
The FSC continued to function in keeping with its statutory
mandate and that of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
pursuant to Jamaica being signatory to the 1988 UN
Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances. Activities in respect to regulated
entities were as follows:
– Assessment of the Anti-Money Laundering Systems of
Licensees: On-site and off-site assessments of the
anti-money laundering systems for registrants and li-
censees in the insurance and securities sectors contin-
ued, with deficiencies being identified, noted in writ-
ing, and communicated to the entity in breach for the
necessary corrective actions. Follow-up assessments
were conducted to ensure that appropriate corrective
ac tions were taken, and will con tinue un til all
deficiencies are satisfactorily addressed.
– Training for Regulated Entities: On March 25, 2009 the
FSC hosted its third annual Financial Crime Mitigation
Workshop involving approximately 120 representa-
tives from the securities, insurance, and pensions sec-
tors, as well as from the general public. The presenta-
tions afforded participants the opportunity to consider
global perspectives and recent trends in financial
crimes, the significance of the role that financial institu-
tions play, and the impact of financial crime on the
economy. There were also discussions on fraud and on
methods to improve coordination of activities between
the regulated entities and the designated authority
(FID).
– Re vi sion to the Anti-Money Laun der ing/Coun ter-
Financing of Terrorism Guidelines: Revision of the
Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Ter-
rorism Guidelines, (“Guidelines”) continued to ensure
consistency between the Proceeds of Crime Act, 2007,
the Proceeds of Crime Regulations, 2007, and the Pro-
ceeds of Crime (Money Laundering Prevention) Reg-
ulations, 2007. The modified guidelines are to be for-
warded to the Minister of National Security for review.
– Notices: The FSC continued to circulate notices on a
periodic basis in conjunction with the Ministry of For-
eign Affairs and Foreign trade to advise stakeholders
of international developments, particularly in respect
of persons and organizations included on the UN Se-
curity Council Consolidated List.
Investigations & Enforcement
During 2009, the FSC received a total of 194 complaints
regarding Commercial Banks, Building Societies and FIA
Institutions compared with 208 in 2008. Of the total complaints
received, 45 were resolved.
The Commission carried out 70 investigations, 37 fewer
than in 2008. Of this total, there were 20 each for Unregistered
Securities Entities and Unregistered Issuers of Securities; 17
for Fit & Proper status; six were investigations of Unregistered
Insurance Intermediaries; and two related to Placement with
Unregistered Insurer.
In an effort to ensure compliance with legislation
administered by the Commission, the FSC took more stringent
enforcement measures. This resulted in litigation against four
financial institutions, three of which were Unregulated
Financial Organizations (UFOs). In the cases against these
UFOs judgment was given in favour of the FSC.
PERFORMANCE
The Bank of Jamaica
For 2009, the Bank of Jamaica posted operating profit of
$5.4 billion. Total assets at the Bank of Jamaica at the end of
December 2009, was $318.2 billion, 14.9 per cent more than at
the end of 2008 (Table 9.2). The growth in assets was due to
increases in Foreign and Local Assets of 8.1 per cent and 22.3
per cent, respectively. The increase in Foreign Assets was the
result of expansion in Bonds & Other Long Term Securities,
which grew by 10.0 per cent. There was also growth in the IMF
Holding of Special Drawing Rights, which went up by $29.4
billion to facilitate Balance of Payment support. The expansion
in Local Assets was brought about by increases in all asset
types with the exception of Items in The Process of Collection,
which declined by $0.5 million.
The 14.9 per cent growth in assets was reflected in
increases in Total Demand Liabilities, by 17.4 per cent; Total
Other Liabilities, 12.6 per cent; and Total Capital & Reserves,
24.5 per cent. Deposits by the Public Sector, Other and Open
Market Instruments were the only liabilities that declined;
changing by 30.4 per cent, 14.1 per cent and 15.4 per cent,
respectively.
 9.5

TABLE 9.2
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES OF THE BANK OF JAMAICA AT DECEMBER 2008-2009
(J$ 000)
2008 2009 % change

FOREIGN ASSETS 144 066 571 155 750 499 8.11

Bonds & Other Long Term Securities 46 184 671 50 778 010 9.95
Time Deposits & Other Cash Resources 97 874 228 75 589 025 -22.77
IMF - Holding of Special Drawing Rights 7 672 29 383 464 382896.14

LOCAL ASSETS 132 911 780 162 487 715 22.25

Government Obligations
Holdings of GOJ Treasury Bills 32 3 361 10403.13
Holdings of GOJ Investment Debentures 732 883 9 994 943 1263.78
Holdings of Other Marketable Securities 86 655 918 97 980 592 13.07
Advances and Other GOJ Receivables 170 113 2 603 605 1430.52
Advances to Financial Institutions 19 622 634 22 523 747 14.78
Items In The Process of Collection 494 5 -98.99
Other Assets 25 729 706 29 381 462 14.19

TOTAL ASSETS 276 978 351 318 238 214 14.9

LIABILITIES, CAPITAL AND RESERVES

DEMAND LIABILITIES
Notes & Coins in Circulation 51 885 826 53 319 382 2.76
Deposits
Public Sector 11 831 376 8 240 363 -30.35
IMF(GOJ) 79 044 97 549 23.41
Commercial Banks and Other LFIs 53 383 587 76 387 772 43.09
Other 1 533 553 1 317 584 -14.08
TOTAL DEMAND LIABILITIES 118 713 386 139 362 650 17.39

OTHER LIABILITIES
IMF - Allocation of Special Drawing Rights 5 020 558 34 786 044 592.87
Foreign Liabilities 47 314 273 552 478.16
Open Market Instruments 129 656 783 109 758 424 -15.35
Amounts Due to Government of Jamaica 9 473 741 14 579 023 53.89
Other Liabilities 8 760 124 12 872 814 46.95
TOTAL OTHER LIABILITIES 152 958 520 172 269 857 12.63

CAPITAL AND RESERVES

Capital authorised and paid up by
Government of Jamaica 4 000 4 000 -
General Reserve Fund 20 000 20 000 -
Contingency Reserves and Provisions 5 282 445 6 581 707 24.6
TOTAL CAPITAL & RESERVES 5 306 445 6 605 707 24.48
TOTAL LIABILITIES,CAPITAL & RESERVES 276 978 351 318 238 214 14.9

Source: Bank of Jamaica

Jamaica Deposit Insurance Corporation4 (JDIC)
In the context of the global financial crisis, deposit insurance
schemes rose to prominence as part of a financial safety net. As
such, the JDIC continued to enhance its institutional capacity to
respond to indicators of bank insolvency and illiquidity. In this
regard, the JDIC focused on the administration of liquidity or
capital support measures and strengthening cross-border
co-ordination.
At the end of 2009, the total number of institutions covered
under the Deposit Insurance Scheme remained at 14. The
deposit insurance coverage limit remained at $600 000 and
there was also no change in the annual premium assessment
rate of 0.15 per cent of insurable deposits charged to policy
holders.
The Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) grew by 35.0 per cent to
$6.3 billion. This increase resulted from growth in Premium
Income and Net Premium Income, which totalled $649.7
million and $970.3 million, respectively.
In 2009, the JDIC intensified its preparation for admission
of the Credit Unions to the Deposit Insurance Scheme. In
addition, the Corporation commenced activities in

4 over 90.0 per cent of depositors are covered by the JDIC at the present limit of $600 000.
 9.6

TABLE 9.3
INSTITUTIONS IN THE JAMAICAN FINANCIAL SYSTEM 2005-2009
Institutions 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Deposit-Taking Institutions:
Commercial Banks 6 6 6 7 7
FIA Institutions 5 5 4 3 3
Building Societies 4 4 4 4 4
Credit Unions 48 47 47 46 45

Non-Deposit-Taking Institutions:
Insurance Companies 17 17 18 17 17
Developmental Banks 5 4 4 4 4
Securities Dealers 47 48 50 48 47

Source: Compiled by the Planning Institute of Jamaica

TABLE 9.4
SELECTED KEY INDICATORS OF DEPOSIT-TAKING INSTITUTIONS PERFORMANCE, 2004-2009
Dec 2004r Dec 2005r Dec 2006r Dec 2007r Dec 2008p Dec 2009p

Real GDP- Financial Sector ($million) 54 379.0 54 132.0 54 384.0 57 269.0 57 739.0 58 219.0
Contribution to Real GDP (%) 11.2 11.1 11.0 11.2 11.4 11.9
Growth Rate (%) 2.4 -0.2 1.7 3.4 1.7 1.0
Average Employment (000) 58.3 59.5 62.5 67.6 72.5 73.8
Total Assets ($million) 472 054.0 497 965.0 578 245.0 657 119.0 718 153.0 758 293.0
Total Deposits ($million) 298 418.0 322 481.0 370 528.0 422 629.0 441 764.0 480 208.0
Total Loans ($million) 149 501.0 177 288.0 208 372.0 268 276.0 333 145.0 350 661.0
Capital Base ($million) 40 757.0 48 927.0 55 373.0 61 743.0 70 445.0 80 752.0
Past Due Loans ($million) 4 487.0 5 131.0 5 438.0 6 208.0 9 786.0 16 438.0
Loan Arrears/Total Loans (%) 3.0 2.9 2.6 2.3 2.9 4.7
Capital Base to Total Assets (%) 8.5 9.6 9.4 9.2 9.6 10.4
Loan Arrears: Capital Base+Provisions (%) 9.8 9.5 8.9 9.1 12.4 17.6
Pre Tax Profit Margin (%) 22.1 26.5 24.8 26.7 26.1 21.1

r: revised
p: preliminary

Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica and Bank of Jamaica

collaboration with the Financial Services Commission towards
the establishment of Compensation Schemes to provide
protection to eligible claimants in the Insurance (Life and
General) Securities and Pensions industry.
DEPOSIT-TAKING INSTITUTIONS
The total number of institutions supervised by the Bank of
Jamaica5 at the end of 2009 remained at 14 (Table 9.3). Total
assets of deposit-taking institutions at the end of December
2009 amounted to $758.3 billion, 58.6 per cent more than at the
end of 2008 (Table 9.4). Total loans, which accounted for 46.2
per cent of total assets, grew by 5.3 per cent to $350.7 billion.
Based on prudential indicators at the end of September
2009, there was deterioration in the quality of loan portfolios.
This was reflected by an increase in the loan arrears to total loan
ratio from 2.9 per cent to 4.7 per cent. Total loan arrears
increased by $ 6.7 billion. This deterioration in the quality of
loans was evident in all three types of institutions: commercial
banks, FIA-licensees and building societies (Figure 9B).
Total deposits grew by 8.7 per cent to $480.2 billion,
reflecting increased deposits held at Commercial Banks and
Building Societies. The Commercial Banks accounted for
approximately 74.4 per cent of total deposits and 60.2 per cent
of the overall increase in total deposits.
Commercial Banks
At the end of December 2009, total assets in Commercial
Banks amounted to $572.2 billion, 4.9 per cent more than at the
end of December 2008 (Table 9.5). The expansion was
primarily the result of growth in Loans & Advances; Foreign
Assets; and Balances with BOJ (see Table 9.5). The increase in
Loans & Advances, driven by loans to private sector,
accounted for approximately 86.8 per cent of the total
expansion in assets.

5 The deposit taking institutions supervised by the BOJ include Commercial Banks, FIA Institutions and Building Societies.
 9.7

8
7
6

Per cent
5
4
3
2
1
0
De De De De De De
c- 0 c- 0 c- 0 c- 0 c- 0 c- 0
4 5 6 7 8 9
Commercial Banks Year Building S ocieties
FIA's Institutions Systems Total

FIGURE 9B: PAST DUE LOANS TO TOTAL LOANS RATIO, 2004 – 2009

The share of Loans & Advances to total assets went up by 5.2
percentage points relative to 2008 and accounted for 44.8 per
cent of total assets. Foreign Assets, the second highest share,
contributed 20.0 per cent to total assets.
The stock of Loans & Advances at the end of 2009 was
$256.4 billion. This represented a nominal increase of 4.2 per
cent and a real decline of 5.5 per cent. The real decline in loan
stock reflected lower credit inflows to the Services and
Consumption categories, which outweighed the increase for the
Goods Producing category. Within Services, four of the eight
subcategories declined. (Table 9.6) For the Consumption
category the decline was due mainly to the sub-item, Local
Residents, which at $82.2 billion registered a decline of 12.1 per
cent. The stock of Loans & Advances to the Goods Producing
Industry was $35.2 billion, an increase of 16.3 per cent. This was
due in part to the 40.1 per cent increase for the sub-category
Construction & Land Development.
Financial Institutions Act (FIA) -Licensees
Total Assets at FIA-Licensees at the end of December
2009 was $33.3 billion, representing a 1.5 per cent increase
(Table 9.7). This higher stock of assets mainly reflected
increased loans to all asset types with the exemption of Loans
& Advances, which declined by 11.6 per cent.
Total loans as a share of assets decreased by 3.9 percentage
points and accounted for 29.1 per cent of total assets. The fall
in the stock of Loans & Advances was due to declines by
Goods Producing and Consumption (Table 9.8). The category
with the largest absolute decline was Consumption, which was
35.8 per cent below 2008, and accounted for 33.0 per cent of
the total decrease. Loans to all Goods Producing industries
declined. Within the Services industry, increases were
recorded for Tourism; Public Sector; and Professional & Other
Services, which grew by $176.4 million, $$8.3 million and
$499.5 million, respectively.

TABLE 9.5
ASSETS OF COMMERCIAL BANKS
STOCK OF ASSETS($ Million) % PERCENTAGE SHARE
Dec 2005 Dec 2006 Dec 2007 Dec 2008 Dec 2009 Change Dec 2005 Dec 2006 Dec 2007 Dec 2008 Dec 2009
09/08

Cash 6 014.4 6 536.5 6 545.7 7 029.9 7 241.4 3.0 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.3 1.3
Balances with BOJ 57 748.0 72 120.8 69 208.5 81 762.9 84 640 4.2 15.7 16.8 14.1 14.9 14.8
Foreign Assets 75 443.8 96 277.1 109 103.8 104 184.8 114 421.4 9.4 20.6 22.4 22.2 19.0 20.0

Loans & Advances 132 095.3 153 449.2 195 075.1 246 167.5 256 389.7 5.2 36.0 35.7 39.7 44.9 44.8
Outstanding
Private Sector 99 544.2 125 512.2 163 411.9 215 392.1 222 491.5 4.3 27.1 29.2 33.3 39.3 38.9
Public Sector 32 551.1 27 937.0 31 663.2 30 775.4 33 898.2 9.9 8.9 6.5 6.4 5.6 5.9
Treasury Bills 957.4 1 246.1 2 109.2 751.3 578.8 -8.2 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.1 0.1
L.R.S. 39 866.5 33 196.4 29 469.9 28 196.6 24 380.2 -13.0 10.9 7.7 6.0 5.1 4.3
Other Securities 15 294.0 23 748.6 31 916.1 28 743.2 38 741.9 31.3 4.2 5.5 6.5 5.2 6.8
Cheques in the course 3 472.3 4 133.5 6 146.8 2 425.2 2 664.1 3.9 0.9 1.0 1.3 0.4 0.5
of Collection
Other Assets 36 184.7 39 261.0 41 412.7 49 080.1 43123.1 -14.4 9.9 9.1 8.4 9.0 7.5
Total 367 076.4 429 969.2 490 987.8 548 341.6 572 180.6 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Source: Bank of Jamaica

 9.8

TABLE 9.6
COMMERCIAL BANKS LOANS AND ADVANCES 2005-2009
($'000)
Real Percentage Change
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 % change 2006/05 2007/06 2008/07 2009/08

GOODS PRODUCING 12 274 941 16 852 695 17 913 661 27 493 719 35 232 506 28.1 29.9 -9.0 31.3 16.3
AGRICULTURE 1 831 629 2 298 384 2 163 730 4 588 066 5 504 006 20.0 18.7 -19.4 81.4 8.9
(1) Production 1 518 900 1 836 524 1 939 686 4 349 087 5 369 332 23.5 14.3 -9.6 91.9 12.0
(2) Marketing 111 521 144 781 114 691 238 581 134 276 -43.7 22.8 -32.2 78.0 -48.9
(3) Land Acquisition 201 208 317 079 109 353 398 398 0.0 49.1 -70.5 -99.7 -9.2

MINING 252 988 643 469 513 411 700 889 422 854 -39.7 140.6 -31.7 16.8 -45.2

MANUFACTURE 4 678 013 5 865 305 6 259 150 9 302 646 9 389 948 0.9 18.6 -8.6 27.2 -8.4
(1) Sugar, Rum & Molasses 340 702 285 618 209 033 528 707 422 804 -20.0 -20.7 -37.3 116.4 -27.4
(2) Food, Drink & Tobacco 1 892 400 1 869 739 2 026 115 4 238 414 2 562 415 -39.5 -6.5 -7.2 79.0 -45.1
(3) Paper, Printing & Publishing 230 440 268 972 157 561 115 242 132 431 14.9 10.4 -49.8 -37.4 4.3
(4) Textile, Leather and 151 628 188 159 123 615 113 905 152 889 34.2 17.4 -43.8 -21.2 21.8
Footwear
(5) Furniture, Fixtures & Wood 89 809 130 708 259 794 260 740 465 735 78.6 37.7 70.2 -14.1 62.1
Products
(6) Metal Products 216 348 271 784 319 223 345 183 355 426 3.0 18.8 0.6 -7.5 -6.5
(7) Cement & Clay Products 370 052 869 018 701 321 851 910 1 003 793 17.8 122.2 -30.9 3.9 6.9
(8) Chemicals & Chemical 135 930 70 449 101 468 337 751 943 525 179.4 -51.0 23.3 184.8 153.5
Products
(9) Other 1 250 704 1 910 858 2 361 020 2 510 794 3 350 930 33.5 44.5 5.8 -9.0 21.1

CONSTRUCTION & LAND 5 512 311 8 045 537.0 8 977 370 12 902 118 19 915 698 54.4 38.1 -4.5 23.0 40.1
DEVELOPMENT
(1) Construction 5 149 328 7 586 534 7 881 569 11 242 811 18 439 894 64.0 39.4 -11.1 22.1 48.9
(2) Land Development 136 490 204 380 783 482 1 299 337 1 239 189 -4.6 41.7 228.2 1127.9 -13.4
(3) Land Acquisition 226 493 254 623 312 319 359 970 236 615 -34.3 6.3 5.0 -1.4 -40.3

SERVICES 78 840 132 80 638 981 103 413 376 127 810 309 131 901 733 3.2 -3.2 9.8 5.8 -6.3
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS 871 528 1 425 759 749 734 1 160 368 1 027 752 -11.4 54.8 -55.0 32.4 -19.6

TRANSPORT,STORAGE & 5 209 236 3 705 753 8 191 314 11 468 156 7 807 980 -31.9 -32.7 89.2 19.8 -38.2
COMMUNICATION

ELECTRICITY, GAS & 746 328 190 098 2 405 317 3 353 462 4 882 390 45.6 -75.9 983.3 19.3 32.1
WATER

GOVERNMENT SERVICES 32 564 973 27 936 979 31 663 196 30 775 417 33 898 240 10.1 -18.8 -3.0 -16.8 -0.03
(1) Central Government 7 994 575 5 934 608 6 090 695 5 627 468 12 639 417 124.6 -29.8 -12.1 -20.9 103.8
(2) Local Government 3 890 941 348 4 517 6 982 54.6 -77.1 -68.3 1010.7 40.3
(3) Public Entities 12 991 349 10 223 061 13 275 144 15 790 131 19 995 953 26.6 -25.6 11.2 1.8 14.9
(4) Other Public Entities 11 575 159 11 778 369 12 297 009 9 353 301 1 255 888 -86.6 -3.7 -10.6 -34.9 -87.8

DISTRIBUTION 8 637 150 13 569 699 18 728 731 23 099 567 25 497 112 10.4 48.6 18.1 5.5 0.2

TOURISM 22 917 677 24 282 298 29 562 840 40 769 013 39 647 933 -2.7 0.2 4.2 18.0 -11.7

ENTERTAINMENT 274 146 291 237 285 748 414 752 530 771 28.0 0.5 -16.0 24.2 16.1

PROFESSIONAL & OTHER 7 619 094 9 237 158 11 826 496 16 769 574 18 609 555 11.0 14.7 9.6 21.3 0.7
SERVICES

CONSUMPTION 41 175 795 55 957 491 73 748 109 90 863 496 89 255 498 -1.8 28.6 12.8 5.4 -10.8

PERSONAL 41 175 795 55 957 491 73 748 109 90 863 496 89 255 498 -1.8 28.6 12.8 5.4 -10.8
(1) Local Residents 41 159 389 55 921 595 73 702 003 84 877 324 82 210 557 -3.1 28.5 12.8 -1.5 -12.1
(2) Overseas Residents 16 406 35 896 46 106 5 986 172 7 044 941 17.7 107.0 10.0 11 009.7 6.8

TOTAL 132 290 868.0 153 449 167.0 195 075 146 246 167 524 256 389 737 4.2 9.7 8.8 8.0 -5.5

Source: Bank of Jamaica

 9.9

TABLE 9.7
ASSETS OF INSTITUTIONS LICENSED UNDER THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS ACT, 2005-2009

STOCK OF ASSETS ($Million) PERCENTAGE SHARE OF TOTAL ASSETS

Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec % Dec Dec Dec Dec Dec
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Change 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Cash & Deposits with Banks & Other 915.0 1 068.0 1 185.5 1 077.3 1 242.1 13.3 2.0 2.3 2.5 3.3 3.7
Institutions
Foreign Assets 23 928.0 22 986.0 21 017.7 13 754.1 14 628.4 6.0 53.7 50.0 45.1 42.0 44.0
Loans & Advances 8 670.0 11 147.0 14 207.2 10 817.9 9 691.4 -11.6 19.5 24.3 30.5 33.0 29.1
Jamaican Government Securities 6 397.0 4 617.0 4 046.6 886.0 1 161.4 23.7 14.4 10.0 8.7 2.7 3.5
Other Assets 4 625.0 6 139.0 6 186.4 6 227.7 6 533.5 4.7 10.4 13.4 13.3 19.0 19.6
Total 44 535.0 45 957.0 46 643.4 32 763 33 256.8 1.5 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Source: Bank of Jamaica

Based on prudential indicators, there was a deterioration in Credit Unions

the quality of loan portfolios shown by an increase in the loan
arrears to total loan ratio to 7.0 per cent from 5.7 per cent. This
partly reflected conditions created by the global economic and
financial crisis.
Building Societies
Total assets was $160.3 billion (Table 9.9), 15.2 per cent
more than at the end of 2008. The expansion during the period
was due to increases in all asset types except Foreign Assets
which declined by 3.7 per cent. The share of all assets within the
institutions’ portfolios declined except for Cash & Deposit and
Other Assets. The share of Cash & Deposit increased by 2.6
percentage points to 9.3 per cent, reflecting the impact of higher
reserve requirements. The share of Other Assets increased by
1.7 percentage points to 18.7 per cent. The stock of loans totalled
$84.6 billion, 11.1 per cent more than at the end of 2008.
TABLE 9.8
LOANS & ADVANCES OUTSTANDING TO LICENSEES UNDER THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS ACT
($000)
Dec 2007
There were 45 credit unions operating in Jamaica at the end
of 2009 compared with 46 at the end of 2008 (see Table 9.3).
This decline was a result of the merger between COK
Co-operative and Sodality Co-operative in November 2009.
All the performance indicators for the Credit Union group
improved compared with 2008. There was an 11.8 per cent
growth in their asset base to $56.5 billion, due partly to the
expansion in the loan stock. The stock of loans was $36.2
billion, an increase of 6.3 per cent compared with 2008. Total
membership grew by 1.5 per cent to reach 967 781 persons and
savings grew by 11.4 per cent to $44.1 billion.
Interest Rates
The general cost of loan funds as indicated by the overall
weighted average loan rates of commercial banks, was 16.19
Dec 2008 Dec 2009 % change

Goods Producing 4 536 391 2 954 038 2 603 075 -13.5

(a) Agriculture 1 029 566 28 351 18 672 -51.8
(b) Mining, Quarrying & 10 233 47 261 32 294 -46.3
Processing
(c) Manufacturing 519 109 363 530 340 430 -6.8
(d) Construction & Land 2 977 483 2 514 896 2 211 679 -13.7
Development

Services 6 130 726 4 591 741 4 678 308 1.9

(e) Transport Storage & 842 151 443 362 259 706 -70.7
Communication
(f) Electricity, Gas & Water 14 596 207 558 14 503 -1331.1
(g) Distribution 1 762 956 1 276 589 1 184 517 -7.8
(h) Tourism 810 654 283 505 459 862 38.3
(I) Entertainment 89 297 24 515 21 311 -15.0
Financial Institutions 641 290 627 408 501 867 -25.0
Public Sector 435 392 126 883 135 144 6.1
(j) Professional & Other 1 534 390 1 601 921 2 101 398 23.8
Services

Consumption 3 540 090 3 272 135 2 410 001 -35.8

Personal 3 540 090 3 272 135 2 410 001 -35.8

TOTAL 14 207 207 10 817 914 9 691 384 -11.6

Source: Bank of Jamaica

 9.10

TABLE 9.9
ASSETS OF BUILDING SOCIETIES
$'000
PERCENTAGE SHARE
Dec-05 Dec-06 Dec-07 Dec-08 Dec-09 % Change Dec-05 Dec-06 Dec-07 Dec-08 Dec-09

Cash & Deposit 2 099.1 2 236.0 2 413.8 9 368.9 14 931.9 59.4 2.3 2.1 2.0 6.7 9.3
Foreign Assets 19 188.0 23 590.9 29 145.3 20 212.4 19 469.4 -3.7 21.3 22.2 23.6 14.5 12.1
Loans 36 551.2 44 035.7 58 981.8 76 098.1 84 580.3 11.1 40.7 41.5 47.7 54.7 52.8
Govt. Securities 8 397.0 9 530.2 10 054.3 9 935.8 11 322.4 14.0 9.3 9.0 8.1 7.1 7.1
Other Assets 23 674.1 26 826.4 22 965.7 23 625.1 30 035.2 27.1 26.3 25.3 18.6 17.0 18.7

TOTAL 89 909.4 106 219.2 123 560.9 139 240.3 160 339.2 15.2 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Source: Bank of Jamaica

per cent, 0.6 percentage point lower than at the end of 2008
(Table 9.10). The weighted average loan rates of all credit types
declined except those related to Installment Credit, which was
1.1 percentage points higher than at the end 2008.
The overall weighted average deposit rate at the end of 2009
was 4.59 per cent (Table 9.11), 0.6 percentage point less than at
the end 2008, reflecting lower Demand, Savings and Time
deposit rates. The interest rate spread was 11.6 per cent, 0.02
percentage point lower than that recorded for 2008 (Figure 9C).
NON-DEPOSIT-TAKING INSTITUTIONS
Development Financing by Local Institutions6
Total disbursement from the Development Bank of Jamaica
and the National Export-Import Bank of Jamaica (EX-IM) was
$5.7 billion, 5.5 per cent more than in 2008. This increase was
due to higher disbursements to the Agriculture, Mining &
Quarrying, Manufacturing and Services industries.
Life Insurance Companies
The total number of life insurance companies remained at
five. Net Premium Income was $23.8 billion, 4.8 per cent less
than in 2008. The total number of policies sold increased by
138 419 to 260 070 policies. The increase was mainly due to
188 177 policies sold during the second half of 2009.
General Insurance Companies
The total number of general insurance companies was 12
during 2009. Unaudited Financial Statements at the end of
2009 revealed increases of 6.2 per cent and 5.7 per cent,
respectively in the Assets and Liabilities at General Insurance
companies. Net premium income increased by 0.7 per cent to
$12 331.0 million. (Table 9.13).
Funds Under Management (FUM)
The total number of securities dealers was 47, two fewer
than in 2008. Total FUM at the end of December 2009 was

TABLE 9.10
COMMERCIAL BANKS' WEIGHTED AVERAGE MONTHLY LOAN RATES 2008 - 2009
Instalment credit Mortgage credit Personal Credit Commercial Public Entities Central Govt. Overall
Credit

End of 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009
Period

January 20.86 20.35 7.52 7.56 25.20 25.53 13.75 13.3 13.79 11.84 15.07 22.88 17.44 16.94
February 20.79 20.4 7.52 7.98 25.29 24.83 13.79 13.66 10.79 10.69 15.36 16.53 17.19 16.93
March 20.72 20.48 7.51 9.64 25.27 24.06 13.79 13.33 10.92 11.28 15.23 15.72 17.33 16.58
April 20.67 20.5 7.49 8.33 25.37 24.26 13.42 13.01 10.43 11.04 15.30 15.12 16.99 16.44
May 20.63 20.64 7.48 9 25.18 23.16 13.89 12.64 10.26 10.66 15.25 13.53 17.10 15.89
June 20.48 21.17 7.47 7.72 25.23 24.24 13.61 13.06 11.08 10.8 14.71 14.55 16.97 16.49
July 20.51 21.18 7.46 8.18 25.11 24.39 13.40 12.9 10.98 9.74 14.55 14.43 16.74 16.42
August 20.50 21.25 7.52 8.16 24.86 24.49 12.71 12.89 10.60 10.6 14.83 14.38 16.30 16.46
September 20.49 21.33 7.51 6.23 24.40 24.44 12.69 12.69 13.26 10.1 15.09 13.61 16.46 16.3
October 20.46 21.33 7.59 6.2 23.52 24.2 12.74 12.7 10.64 10.57 16.23 13.59 16.22 16.29
November 20.46 21.43 7.58 6.92 24.68 24.28 12.89 12.57 10.67 10.7 15.99 13.58 16.39 16.25
December 20.39 21.47 7.40 6.95 24.93 23.99 13.01 12.67 13.33 10.69 22.33 13.55 16.78 16.19

Source: Bank of Jamaica

6 Data collected represent information from two of the four Development Financing Institutions.
 9.11

13

12.5

12

Per Cent
11.5

11

10.5

10

9.5

r
ay
ry

ly

r
y

ch

ne

t
r il

er
s

be

be
be
ar

Ju
Ap

gu
ua

ob
M
ar

Ju
nu

em

em
em
Au
br

ct
Ja

ov

ec
Fe

pt
Se

D
Month

2008 2009

FIG URE 9C: MONTHL Y IN TER EST RATE SPREADS, 2 008 - 200 9

$859.9 billion, an increase of 11.0 per cent compared with the
corresponding period of 2008. This performance for the year
was due to increased funds managed by Securities Firms,
Insurance Companies and Other Securities Firms. FUM at the
Securities Firms was $714.4 billion and Insurance Companies,
$114.7 billion;, respectively $67.1 billion and $15.2 billion
more than at the end of December 2008.
The Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE)
The JSE Index declined by 4.5 per cent in 2009. This
resulted from 16 029 transactions on the Exchange compared,
with 30 312 for the period January – December 2008. The
volume of stocks traded for 2009 was 1.7 billion - representing a
decline of 27.6 per cent. Stock prices were affected by:
– weak performances of some of the major listed com-
panies due in part to increasing operational cost; and
– weakened consumer confidence resulting from the
global financial crisis and an increasing unwillingness
to take risks.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
In May 2009, the Bank of Jamaica officially launched the
$5000 note on the 84th birthday of Hugh Lawson Shearer
(Prime Minister of Jamaica, 1967- 1972), the person whose
image is on the new note.

TABLE 9.11
COMMERCIAL BANKS MONTHLY WEIGHTED AVERAGE DEPOSIT RATES
Percentages

Demand Savings Time Overall A/W Rates

End of Period 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009

January 2.56 2.35 4.41 4.33 7.00 7.23 4.86 5.01

February 2.53 2.38 4.41 4.35 6.88 7.24 4.85 5.03
March 2.64 2.43 4.33 4.33 6.82 6.99 4.75 4.89
April 2.54 2.33 4.26 4.37 6.93 7 4.76 4.99
May 2.52 2.26 4.38 4.4 6.77 7.18 4.84 5.04
June 2.63 2.1 4.35 4.31 6.94 7.08 4.85 4.96
July 2.51 2.06 4.22 4.31 6.91 6.89 4.79 4.79
August 2.45 2.24 4.40 4.33 6.94 6.9 4.94 4.88
September 2.59 2.21 4.48 4.31 7.03 6.69 5.02 4.81
October 2.90 2.26 4.47 4.32 7.16 6.48 5.18 4.78
November 2.51 2.3 4.48 4.15 7.25 6.39 5.16 4.64
December 2.45 2.22 4.48 4.09 7.37 6.4 5.16 4.59

Source: Bank of Jamaica

 9.12

earning capacity for the financial system. Growth for the

TABLE 9.12 industry will, therefore, be predicated on:
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS OF THE LIFE
INSURANCE INDUSTRY, 2003 -2009 – increased fees and commission income due to in-
creased utilization of financial services throughout the
Year Number of Policies Net Premium Income
industry given the lower rates; and
Sold – improvements in the insurance industry and Funds
$Million Under Management.
2003 64 767 8 302.8
2004 97 543 11 060.7 JDIC is set to take key initiatives to further its pubic
2005 74 801 12 360.4 education towards increasing awareness of effective
2006 110 231 16 866.9 resolution processes and mechanisms. Specifically, JDIC in
2007 120 261 17 283.1 association with CARTAC (Caribbean Regional Technical
2008 121 951 24 975.4 Assistance), will be hosting a conference in March 2010
2009 u 260 070 23 845.1 entitled: “Bank Insolvency in the Caribbean- Law and Best
Practice”, subtitled ‘Detecting and Managing Banking Crisis:
u - Unaudited Statement Assessment of the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-2009’.
The most recent draft of the Pensions (Superannuation
Source: Financial Services Commission Fund and Retirement Schemes) Act 2004 was received by the
FSC on January 6, 2010. The amendments to the Act seek to
provide for:
OUTLOOK – the revision of the licence fees to be paid by invest-
The performance of the Finance & Insurance Services ment managers on the initial grant of a licence and on
Industry in 2010 is predicated on the level of adaptability subsequent renewals;
resulting from the Jamaica Debt Exchange Programme (JDX). – conditional registration in certain circumstances of a
The JDX involved a voluntary exchange of existing domestic superannuation fund or retirement scheme; and
bonds7 for new bonds of the same principal value, but which
have lower interest rates and longer maturities. The $700 – the revision of the contribution limits for members’
million JDX programme is expected to yield interest savings to and sponsors contributions to approved superannua-
the Government of Jamaica, and the lower lending rates. tion funds.n
However, it has negative implications in the form of lower

TABLE 9.13
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR THE GENERAL INSURANCE INDUSTRY 2003-2009
$ Million

Year Assets Liabilities Net Premium Income Profit/Loss (Net)

2003 26 959.3 17 949.9 6 458.1 2 384.4

2004 40 359.7 29 942.1 7 129.2 253.3
2005 33 573 23 357.9 7 392 371.1
2006 35 195.2 22 726.9 8 251.7 1 144.1
2007 40 496 26 840.5 10 400.5 1 605.9
2008 43 565.5 28 927.9 11 947.4 2 430.8
2009u 44 740.2 28 474.1 12 349.1 2 086.3

u - Unaudited Statement
Source: Financial Services Commission

7 Excluding Treasury Bills

CHAPTER 10

AGRICULTURE

INTRODUCTION – new entrants to the industry due in part to the down-

turn in other areas of the economy. Based on employ-

F
or calendar year 2009, real value added for Agriculture,
Forestry & Fishing grew by 12.1 per cent (Figure 10A)
contributing 5.6 per cent to overall GDP compared with 4.8 per
cent in 2008. The improved performance in the industry re-
flected recovery from the effects of Hurricane Dean (2007) and
Tropical Storm Gustav (2008), both of which affected produc-
tion during 20081. The increase in real value added was
attributed to:
– the Ministry of Agriculture’s Production and Productiv-
ity Programme aimed at improving best practice meth-
odologies among groups of farmers engaged in the pro-
duction of selected domestic crops;
– other government programmes which offered farmers
increased support in the areas of marketing, irrigation
and extension services; and
ment data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica, on
average, there were 10 500 more persons employed in
the industry during 2009 relative to 2008.
Gross output for the industry, as indicated by the Planning
Institute of Jamaica’s Agricultural Production Index,
increased by 11.7 per cent (Table 10.1). Other Agricultural
Crops2, the most heavily weighted sub-industry in the index
increased by 20.0 per cent while Export Crops grew by 12.3
per cent. However, Animal Farming, Fishing and Post Harvest
Activities declined by 1.7 per cent, 5.3 per cent and 10.1 per
cent, respectively. Earnings from exports of Traditional
Agricultural commodities amounted to US$39.1 million
compared with US$31.8 million in 2008.

20
Tropical storm Gustav
15
Percentage Change

10
5
0
-5
-10
Hurricane Dean
-15
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Years

FIGURE 10A: REAL VALUE ADDED GROWTH FOR AGRICULTURE,FORESTRY & FISHING

1 In 2008, Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing declined by 5.2 per cent (revised).
2 The other Agricultural crops category comprise mainly Domestic Crops with a weighting of 56.5 per cent..
 10.2

POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES
Vision 2030 Jamaica – National Development Plan
The Agriculture Sector Plan, which is one of the strategic
priority areas of the Vision 2030 Jamaica –National
Development Plan, was finalized in 2009. The main goals for
the agriculture industry are to:
– create an efficient, competitive, diversified value
added industry;
– establish strong marketing systems for domestic and
export crops;
– ensure that human resources are competent and ade-
quate;
– establish an enabling and facilitating framework, infra-
structure and support services;
– create an environmentally sustainable industry; and
– strengthen the contribution of the industry to long-term
development and national food security.
The Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy Framework
(MTF) 2009-2012 which is aligned to the overall vision, goals
and outcomes of Vision 2030 Jamaica, outlines the operations
of the Agriculture Sector Plan. The main strategies outlined in
the MTF to achieve the goals in the Agriculture Sector Plan are
to:
– improve and rationalize farm roads;
The progress made in 2009 towards achieving the
strategies includes the following:
– allocation of funds and identification of priority farm
roads for rehabilitation;
– commencement of work to develop a comprehensive
programme to address the problem of praedial larceny;
– signing of a memorandum of understanding with the
European Commision and the Food and Agriculture
Organization for the strengthening of Jamaica’s Food
Security initiatives;
– completion of the development of the Jamaica Agri-
culture sub-industry strategy for Fruits and Vegeta-
bles; Roots and Tubers; and Spices. This is aimed at
developing a diversified range of agricultural produc-
tion, including higher value-added products;
– restructuring of the Ministry of Agriculture including
initiating the process for the establishment of the Fish-
eries Divison and Forestry Department as Executive
Agencies;
– expansion in the number and training of extension of-
ficers; and
– development of a new policy framework and a com-
prehensive plan of action for the sugar and banana
sub-industries.
Sub-Industry Policies
(a) Banana and Plantain

– strengthen agricultural research institutions;
– develop a diversified range of agricultural production
including higher value added production;
– implement development plans for key agricultural
sub-industries;
– promote national food security;
– strengthen the capacity of Government to play a sup-
porting role in the development of the agriculture sec-
tor; and
– strengthen efforts to reduce praedial larceny.
A banana and plantain policy was developed in 2009 in
response to challenges experienced in the industry, which
culminated in the suspension of exports by the major exporter
of bananas. This policy will serve as the platform for the
restructuring and re-orientation of these sub-industries. The
policy is aimed at: (a) increasing production and productivity
in the banana and plantain sub-industries in a sustainable
manner; (b) increasing banana and plantain consumption
locally to drive increased production; and (c) improving the
quality of life of banana farmers and their communities. The
policy covers all aspects of banana and plantain production,
regulation, marketing, processing and consumption as well as

TABLE 10.1
AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION INDEXr
2003=100
SUB-INDUSTRIES

YEAR EXPORT OTHER ANIMAL FISHING POST TOTAL

CROPS AGRICULTURAL FARMING HARVEST
CROPS ACTIVITIES
2003 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
2004 83.8 83.3 98.6 110.7 80.0 87.3
2005 48.9 80.7 101.0 115.9 69.8 79.4
2006 89.0 94.7 101.1 172.9 94.1 99.4
2007 69.7 86.3 100.1 135.3 71.6 87.8
2008 56.8 82.2 102.7 128.2 78.4 83.1
2009 63.8 98.6 101.0 121.4 70.5 92.8

% Change 2009/2008 12.3 20.0 -1.7 -5.3 -10.1 11.7

r - revised
Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica
 10.3

TABLE 10.2
VALUE OF AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS, 2005 - 2009
(US$' 000)
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2009/2008

Traditionals
Bananas 4 692 13 412 9 222 37 6 -83.8
Citrus (Fresh Fruit) 1 480 986 1 847 1 821 1 710 -6.1
Coffee 16 334 29 649 27 158 26 777 33 815 26.3
Cocoa 318 1 002 1 985 1 034 1 778 72.0
Pimento 2 856 1 410 2 077 2 119 1 753 -17.3

TOTAL 25 680 46 459 42 290 31 788 39 063 22.9

p - preliminary

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

the role and responsibilities of the Government, producers and
other stakeholders.
(b) Sugar Cane
The implementation of the Jamaica Country Strategy: 2006
– 2015 continued in 2009, with the key objective being the
development of a sustainable private-sector led sugar cane
industry by 2015. The Government was successful in
privatizing two of its five factories (St. Thomas Sugar Company,
Trelawny Sugar Company) and continued efforts to privatize
the remaining three (Frome, Monymusk, Bernard Lodge).
PERFORMANCE OF THE AGRICULTURE,
FORESTRY & FISHING INDUSTRY
Following two consecutive years of downturns, the
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing industry grew by 12.1 per
cent. Based on the Planning Institute of Jamaica’s Agriculturel
Production Index, gross output increased by 11.7 per cent.

TABLE 10.3
PRODUCTION STATISTICS: SUGAR CANE AND DERIVATIVES, 2005 - 2009

PARTICULARS UNIT OF 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

MEASURE

Cane Milled
Total '000 tonnes 1 368.7 1 745.3 1 968.0 1 652.0 1 334.6
Farmers 572.0 719.1 783.9 644.0 576.9
Estates 796.7 1 026.2 1 184.1 1 008.0 757.7

Sugar Production (Commercial)

Calendar Year '000 tonnes 122.1 141.2 158.0 140.4 126.0
Crop Year '000 tonnes 120.3 142.3 159.4 140.9 121.5

Acreages Reaped Industry '000 hectares 27.6 30.0 30.8 29.9 26.2
Farmers 11.6 12.6 13.1 13.5 10.8
Estates 16.0 17.4 17.7 16.4 15.4

Tonnes Cane Per Hectare

Industry 49.6 58.2 63.9 55.3 51
Farmers 49.4 57.2 60.1 47.7 53.52
Estates 49.8 58.9 66.8 61.5 49.2

Tonnes Cane Per Commercial Sugar 11.38 12.26 12.35 12.12 10.98
Tonnes Cane Per 96 Sugar* 11.02 11.88 11.97 11.73 10.61
Tonnes Sugar Per Hectare 4.5 4.9 5.34 4.71 4.8

Molasses
Production '000 tonnes 60.4 74.5 79.7 62.9 57 679
Export '000 litres 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Value US$'000 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

* 96 sugar refers to a standard quality sugar as measured by a polariscope

Source: Sugar Industry Authority
 10.4

TABLE 10.4
SUGAR EXPORTS BY DESTINATION, 2005 - 2009
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

DESTINATION Quantity Value Quantity Value Quantity Value Quantity Value Quantity Value
(tonnes) (fob) (tonnes) (fob) (tonnes) (fob) (tonnes) (fob) (tonnes) (fob)
US$m US$m US$m US$m US$m

EUROPEAN UNION 110 064 73.5 135 426 87.8 147 035 98.6 136 048 104.7 120 180 75.6
USA 2 823 1.2 5 007 2.5 5 987 2.6 0 0.0 0 0.0
OTHER 41 0.03 12 0.01 31 0.03 22 0.02 30 28

TOTAL 112 928 74.7 140 445 90.3 153 053 101 246 136 070 104.7 120 210 75.7

Source: Sugar Industry Authority

Other Agricultural Crops, which grew by 20.0 per cent and
Export Crops by 12.3 per cent outweighed the performances of
Animal Farming, Fishing and Post Harvest Activities, which
declined by 1.7 per cent, 5.3 per cent and 10.1 per cent,
respectively. The improved performance was attributed to the
introduction of government programmes aimed at improving
production and productivity as well as new entrants to the
industry. In addition, more favourable weather conditions
prevailed in 2009 relative to 2008 when the industry was
negatively impacted by two weather systems. Although drought
conditions were reported during the year, the impact was
mitigated by the increased use of lands by farmers in areas
served by irrigation, as well as by the more effective and
efficient use of irrigation water through the use of drip systems.
EXPORT CROPS
Gross output for Export Crops grew by 12.3 per cent (see
Table 10.1). Crops in this group which recorded increases were
Banana, Coffee and Cocoa due in part to more favourable
weather conditions. Earnings from Export Crops for 2009
amounted to US$39.1 million compared with US$31.8 million
in 2008 (Table 10.2).
Sugar Cane
For the 2008/2009 crop year (November 2008-October
2009), some 1 334 579 tonnes of sugar cane were milled
producing 121 501 tonnes of sugar (Table 10.3). This
compared with the previous crop year when 1 652 047 tonnes
of sugar cane were milled, yielding 140 871 tonnes of sugar.
The 23.8 per cent decline in the volume of sugar cane reaped
was due mainly to uncertainty surrounding the divestment of
the five government-owned sugar factories. Investments in the
field and factory operations were stymied as the government
was unable to conclude negotiations with the Infinity
Bio-Energy company and was forced to reopen the bidding
process in February 2009. This had a negative impact on
production. The Bernard Lodge Sugar Factory was closed due
to the unavailablility of the required investments to improve
efficiency. This led to the overall decline in sugar cane
production.
Despite the downturn in sugar cane production, the
quantity of sugar cane required to produce one tonne of sugar
(tc:ts ratio) improved to 10.61 tonnes from 11.73 tonnes in the

TABLE 10.5
PRODUCTION OF SELECTED TRADITIONAL EXPORT CROPS, 2005 - 2009
% Change
PARTICULARS CROP-YEAR UNIT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009/2008

1. Bananas January - December Tonnes n/a n/a n/a 36 200 52 765 45.8

2. Citrus
Estimated Total Production July - June Tonnes 125 635 120 092 124 553 122 291 128 241 4.9
Sweet Orange 111 501 106 852 112 632 112 701 118 440 5.1
Grapefruit 1 136 1 826 1 607 701 1 200 71.2
Ortanique 7 584 8 402 8 598 6 448 6 613 2.6
Ugli 6 414 3 012 1 716 2 433 1 988 -18.3

3. Coffee (Cherry) August - July

Estimated Total Production Tonnes 8 897 12 390 15 117 9 035 12 456 37.9
Blue Mountain 6 434 10 428 12 939 7 802 10 042 28.7
Non- Blue Mountain 2 463 1 962 2 178 1 233 2 414 95.8

4. Cocoa October - September

a) Deliveries to Processing Plants Tonnes 550 595 1 915 1 015 1 108 9.2
b) Out-turn from Processing Plants Tonnes 220 238 768 406 463 14.0

5. Coconut January - December millions 95.8 96.2 95.4 95.3 95.0 -0.3

Source: Commodity Boards

 10.5

TABLE 10.6
FARMGATE PRICES OF SELECTED TRADITIONAL EXPORT CROPS, 2005 - 2009
% Change
PARTICULARS UNIT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2009/2008

1. Sugar J$/Tonne 32 943 35 874 37 936 43 344 46 424 7.1

2. Bananas
Price to Growers J$/Tonne 21 483 27 753 36 871 39 600 44 000 11.1

3. Citrus
Oranges J$/Tonne(Solids) 130 390 145 600 168 000 145 600 127 680 -12.3
Ortaniques J$/Tonne(Solids) 130 390 145 600 168 000 145 600 127 680 -12.3
Grapefruits J$/box 152 160 185 185 185 0.0

4. Coffee
Price to Growers
- Blue Mountain J$/Tonne 110 230 119 415 124 726 124 986 124 986 0.0
- Non-Blue Mountain J$/Tonne 55 115 58 789 58 789 67 975 73 560 8.2

5. Cocoa J$/Tonne 59 006 64 006 114 006 146 006 146 006 0.0

6. Pimento J$/Tonne 242 506 242 506 242 506 163 400 174 838 7.0

7. Coconut
Seeds J$/Seed 26 30 32 40 35 -12.5

1 box grapefruit - 80 lbs

p - preliminary

Source: Based on data supplied by Commodity Boards and the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries

previous crop year. This was influenced by improved weather
conditions which increased the rate of sucrose extraction.
For the 2008/09 crop year, the ex-factory price for sugar was
$46 424 per tonne (Table 10.6) compared with $43 344 per tonne
in the previous crop year. The proportionate allocation of the
ex-factory price between sugar cane growers and manufacturers
was maintained at a ratio of 62:38.
The volume of sugar exported for the calendar year 2009
was 120 210 tonnes valued at US$75.7 million compared with
136 070 tonnes in 2008 valued at US$104.7 million (Table
10.4). The reduction in earnings was due to the reduced volume
of exports as well as a reduction in the price of sugar. The
European Commission agreement had established a 36.0 per
cent reduction in the price paid for raw sugar from African,
Caribbean and Pacific Countries over a four-year period starting
in 2006. In 2006, a 5.1 per cent cut was implemented with no
further cuts in 2007 and a 12.0 per cent cut in 2008. The final cut
of 18.9 per cent was implemented in 2009.
Banana
The quantity of bananas produced in Jamaica was estimated
at 52 765 tonnes compared with 36 200 tonnes in 2008 (Table
10.5). Relatively more favourable weather conditions prevailed
in 2009 giving rise to the increase in production3. The
weather-related shocks led Jamaica’s largest exporter
(accounting for 80.0 per cent of exports) to cease exports from
Jamaica in 2008. As a result, only 1.6 tonnes of the fruit was
exported in 2009 compared with 32 428 tonnes in 2006
(exports in 2007 and 2008 were affected by the hurricane and
tropical storm).
Coffee
The volume of coffee berries delivered to processing
plants during the 2008/09 crop year (August 2008 – July 2009)
increased by 37.9 per cent to 12 456 tonnes compared with the
previous crop year (Table 10.5). The improved yields were
influenced by more favourable weather conditions as the 40.2
per cent decline in production in the previous crop year was
attributed to Hurricane Dean which caused damage to the
coffee industry estimated at $855.0 million.
Deliveries of Blue Mountain cherry coffee increased by
28.7 per cent to 10 042 tonnes while Non-Blue Mountain
coffee increased by 95.8 per cent to 2 414 tonnes. The
weighted average farmgate price paid for Blue Mountain
cherry coffee and Non-Blue Mountain coffee was $124 986.69
per tonne and $73 560.15 per tonne, respectively. The value of
coffee exported during 2009 amounted to US$ 35.7 million
compared with US$26.5 million in 2008.

3 Banana production is very susceptible to hurricane conditions and in 2007, Hurricane Dean destroyed 85 per cent of the existing crop
followed by Tropical Storm Gustav in 2008 which destroyed 80 per cent of the then crop.
 10.6

TABLE 10.7
DOMESTIC CROP PRODUCTION, 2005 - 2009
UNIT OF % Change
PARTICULARS MEASUREMENT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2009/2008

DOMESTIC FOOD CROPS Tonnes 391 708 467 802 427 306 400 110 489 672 22.4

Legumes Tonnes 4 905 5 499 5 644 4 458 4 820 8.1

Gungo Peas 583 934 868 668 874 26.8
Red Peas 686 622 554 506 768 51.7
Peanut 3 175 3 413 3 728 2 825 2 704 -4.3
Other Legumes 461 529 494 438 474 8.2

Vegetables Tonnes 145 721 167 050 149 173 144 595 173 589 20.1
Cabbage 20 223 25 676 22 110 20 648 25 896 25.4
Callaloo 11 847 13 708 12 192 11 184 12 939 15.7
Carrot 20 533 22 887 19 365 18 925 25 437 34.4
Cho Cho 2 605 3 032 2 534 2 596 3 162 21.8
Cucumber 13 712 12 967 11 252 11 217 11 428 1.9
Lettuce 4 776 6 405 6 300 6 010 7 325 21.8
Okra 3 021 3 652 3 379 3 432 4 377 27.5
Pumpkin 31 310 36 484 33 749 32 927 39 785 20.8
Tomato 20 434 23 090 19 576 19 387 21 190 9.3
Other Vegetables 17 260 19 149 18 716 18 269 22 050 20.7

Condiments Tonnes 27 082 30 089 28 871 26 281 34 313 30.6

Escallion 10 874 11 037 10 840 10 190 10 181 -0.1
Onion 310 234 215 455 721 58.4
Hot Pepper 5 722 7 440 6 596 5 338 10 565 97.9
Sweet Pepper 7 139 9 240 8 556 7 869 10 804 37.3
Other Condiments 3 036 2 138 2 664 2 429 2 040 -16.0

Fruits Tonnes 34 662 45 889 39 619 42 257 46 768 10.7

Cantelope - - 2 520 2 743 2 337 -14.8
Paw-Paw 8 844 11 300 9 201 7 156 10 671 49.1
Pineapple 14 552 20 533 18 102 20 351 21 368 5.0
Watermelon 11 266 14 056 9 573 12 230 12 393 1.3

Cereals Tonnes 1 927 1 895 1 673 1 897 2 359 24.4

Corn 1 924 1 893 1 673 1 897 2 359 24.4
Rice 3 2 0 0 0 0.0

Plantain Tonnes 8 952 21 986 19 087 15 035 24 621 63.8

Horse Plantain 6 920 17 219 14 900 11 345 18 792 65.6
Other Plantain 2 032 4 767 4 187 3 690 5 829 58.0

Yams Tonnes 107 294 123 005 113 124 102 284 124 516 21.7
Lucea 10 241 9 831 10 306 10 542 9 609 -8.9
Negro 11 633 12 654 11 217 11 075 15 289 38.0
Renta 6 444 7 956 8 006 6 662 8 253 23.9
St.Vincent 2 242 2 717 2 323 2 026 2 443 20.6
Sweet 6 314 6 275 5 186 3 765 4 411 17.1
Tau 2 695 2 913 2 588 2 150 2 245 4.4
Yellow 66 243 78 571 71 863 64 374 80 531 25.1
Other Yam 1 481 2 088 1 636 1 689 1 735 2.7

Other Tubers Tonnes 27 576 35 625 35 834 31 871 34 936 9.6

Bitter Cassava 5 930 7 710 8 299 6 741 5 764 -14.5
Sweet Cassava 7 295 10 001 10 220 8 250 8 231 -0.2
Coco 5 694 6 921 6 485 5 464 6 635 21.4
Dasheen 8 657 10 993 10 831 11 416 14 305 25.3

Sorrel Tonnes 623 738 749 708 812 14.7

Potatoes Tonnes 32 966 36 027 33 531 30 725 42 937 39.7

Irish 7 729 8 559 7 477 4 929 8 708 76.7
Sweet 25 237 27 468 26 055 25 797 34 229 32.7

p - preliminary
Source: Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries
 10.7

TABLE 10.8
DOMESTIC FARMGATE PRICE INDEX, 2005 - 2009
2003 = 100
%Change
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009/2008

LEGUMES 140.0 138.4 146.3 158.0 193.7 22.6

ROOTS & TUBERS 96.1 138.4 150.8 154.5 197.8 28.0
OTHER TUBERS 58.7 95.6 105.0 113.0 130.8 15.8
CEREALS 79.8 68.1 74.5 100.8 76.5 -24.1
CONDIMENTS 124.4 59.5 48.7 82.0 48.1 -41.3
FRUITS 66.6 77.3 74.9 104.5 63.5 -39.3
VEGETABLES 63.3 60.8 58.5 76.1 50.5 -33.6

OVERALL INDEX 197.2 165.3 177.1 219.1 179.0 -18.3

p - preliminary
Source: Planning Institute of Jamaica.

Citrus
For the 2008/09 crop year (July 2008-June 2009), overall
citrus production was estimated at 128 241 tonnes, an increase
of 4.9 per cent. The Citrus industry benefited from more
favourable weather conditions. Increases were recorded for
Grapefruits (71.2 per cent), Sweet Oranges (5.1 per cent) and
Ortanique (2.6 per cent). The farmgate price paid to citrus
farmers for Sweet Oranges and Ortanique declined consistent
with the increased supply of fruits to the market.
Coconut
The volume of coconuts produced in 2009 was 95.0
million compared with 95.3 million in 2008 (Table 10.5). The
impact of the Lethal Yellowing disease was reduced in 2009
with the loss of approximately 14 000 trees compared with an
estimated loss of 45 000 trees in 2008. This was due to the
efforts of the Coconut Board to curtail the spread of the
disease.
The project “Sustainable Coconut Production through
Control of Coconut Lethal Yellowing” which was launched in
2007 to combat the disease continued in 2009. The
Government continued to partner with the Governments of

TABLE 10.9
LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION, 2005 - 2009

UNIT OF % Change
PARTICULARS MEASUREMENT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009/2008

LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTER Heads

Cattle " 49 624 28 451 23 413 22 053 n/a -
Hogs " 158 853 134 002 112 820 122 857 n/a -
Goats " 47 596 39 515 40 121 41 369 n/a -
Sheep " 1 029 498 541 1 877 n/a -
n/a -
MEAT, FISH AND DAIRY n/a -
Beef and Veal 000 kgs. 10 391 6 003 5 539 5 994 n/a -
Goats Flesh " " 765 670 645 681 n/a -
Pork " " 8 216 7 420 7 239 9 138 n/a -
Mutton " " 21 8 10 22 n/a -
Poultry " " 101 513 104 012 107 262 106 721 103 860 -2.7
Fish (Inland) & Shrimp " " 5 670 8 019 5 600 5 880 5 141 -12.6
Fish (Marine) (r) " " 8 398 13 068 11 838 9 475 12 544 32.4
Eggs Million 93 157 115 121 130 7.4
Milk Million Litres 15 15 14 14 14 0.0
r - revised
n/a - not available
Source: Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries
 10.8

TABLE 10.10
DEVELOPMENT BANK OF JAMAICA: LOAN ALLOCATION TO
THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY:2005 - 2009
(J$ '000)

SUB-INDUSTRIES 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p

Domestic Crops
Cassava 75 0 0 0 432
Sweet Potatoes 200 0 400 0 2 960
Irish Potatoes 3 920 500 847 1 759 25 018
Peanuts 160 0 200 0 200
Pineapple 0 120 1 700 500 300
Plaintains/Plantain 199 0 500 1 000 7 200
Pepper 0 3 040 7 214 1 100 12 508
Yams 1 200 0 4 693 2 259 1 923
Greenhouse Vegetables 0 0 0 0 48 970
Vegetables 4 944 2 013 8 813 5 449 1 839
Melon 0 0 0 0 267
Horticulture 0 0 1 000 0 7 800
Other Crops 4 344 0 10 071 7 730 6 200
SUB-TOTAL 15 042 5 673 35 438 19 797 115 617
Livestock Sector
Cattle 560 0 9 932 31 000 32 027
Pasture 1 348 0 0 2 500 0.0
Small Stock (sheep, goat) 15 862 10 715 40 768 21 849 8 150
Piggery 0 0.0 0 0 63 525
Poultry 303 000 50 155 158 814 303 174 80 859
Fishing 14 616 7 006 6 100 8 600 36 236
Other Livestock 0 400 0 28 384 0.0
Bee Keeping 0 0 0 0 6 034
SUB-TOTAL 335 386 68 276 215 614 395 607 226 831
Export Crops
Bananas 200 0 1 055 217 550 0.0
Cocoa 0 150 0 0 0.0
Coffee 3 188 550 11 096 10 300 13 295
Citrus 0 801 0 700 5 000
Sugar Cane 298 626 10 357 384 99 076
SUB-TOTAL 3 686 2 127 22 508 228 934 117 371
Farm Infrastructure
Farm Equipment 0 1 260 841 6 000 17 500
Farm Buildings 0 0 13 925 8 225 1 000
Farm Vehicle 0 0 0 0 25 538
Farm Store 0 0 0 0 14 900
biodigester 0 0 0 1 000
Other 0 0 463 0 4 600
SUB-TOTAL 0 1 260 15 229 14 225 64 538
Agro-processing commodity 151 000 294 000 28 000 231 346 0.0
Food Processing 0 0 0 0 118 495
Beverages/Juices 0 0 0 0 93 000

SUB-TOTAL 151 000 294 000 28 000 231 346 211 495
TOTAL 505 096 371 336 316 789 889 909 735 852

p - preliminary
Source: Development Bank of Jamaica

TABLE 10.11
AGRICULTURAL CREDIT: 2005- 2009
(J$'000)
INSTITUTIONS 2005
Development Bank of Jamaica
Total Loans Outstanding 2 441 130
Loans Issued 5 796 464
Loans Repaid 3 355 334
Commercial Banks
Loans and Advances
Outstanding 1 411 163
Mexico, Honduras and other countries affected by the disease in
order to develop a variety resistant to Lethal Yellowing.
The coconut replanting programme, which commenced in
2002, to replant 100 000 coconut seedlings destroyed by Lethal
Yellowing, continued in 2009. At the end of 2009, a total of 96
928 seedlings were planted.
Cocoa
The volume of wet cocoa beans delivered to fermentaries for
the 2008/09 crop year (October 2008 – September 2009)
amounted to 1 108.0 tonnes compared with 1 015.0 tonnes in the
previous crop year (see Table 10.5). The 9.2 per cent increase in
production reversed the 47.1 per cent decline experienced in the
previous crop year as a result of relatively more favourable
weather conditions. Production was boosted by increased
extension activities and training of farmers. The value of exports
for the period January-December 2009 was US$1.8 million
compared with US$1.0 million in 2008 (see Table 10.2).
OTHER AGRICULTURAL CROPS
Gross output for Other Agricultural Crops grew by 20.0 per
cent, reflecting a recovery of this sub-industry which had
recorded a 6.4 per cent decline in 2008. The increase in output
was attributed to:
– the Ministry of Agriculture’s Production and Productiv-
ity Programme which targets mainly Domestic Crops;
– other government programmes which offered farmers
increased support in the areas of marketing, irrigation
and extension services;
– increased use of protected cultivation (greenhouses);
and
– more efficient and increased use of irrigated lands.
The Production and Productivity Programme is aimed at
improving best practice methodologies among groups of
farmers engaged in the production of a selected group of crops.
The programme, which started in 2008, included 16 crops4. An
important strategy utilized in the programme was the use of drip
4 These crops are: Yellow Yam, Negro Yam, Sweet Yam, Dasheen, Sweet Potato, Irish Potato, Carrot, Hot Pepper, Onion, Ginger,
Pineapple, Cabbage, Tomato, Pumpkin, Iceberg Lettuce and Other Lettuce.
10.9
2006 2007 2008 2009
1 747 529 2 082 579 1 762 927 2 438 303
5 433 614 6 718 931 7 311 435 8 086 797
3 686 085 4 636 352 5 548 508 5 648 494
1 353 137 1 158 067 51 049 943 1 279 256
Source: Development Bank of Jamaica
irrigation systems which was integrated with the use of ‘black
tanks’ in areas without access to irrigation schemes. This
assisted in reducing the impact of drought on crop yields. The
Ministry of Agriculture reported that the increased production
resulted in increased consumption of domestic crops and
reduced levels of imports. A comparison of the value of
imports for 2009 with 2008 showed that the value of imports
for Tomatoes, Carrots, Sweet Peppers and Irish Potatoes
declined by 92.0 per cent, 59.0 per cent, 51.0 per cent and 40.0
per cent, respectively.
The Ministry of Agriculture reported that there was a 64.0
per cent increase in the volume of crops produced using
protective cultivation (greenhouses). This assisted in reducing
the effects of the drought.
As a result of these initiatives employed, all nine crop
groups recorded increases in gross output ranging from 8.1 per
cent for legumes to 63.8 per cent for plantains (Table 10.7).
Notable increases of individual crops were Hot Pepper (97.9
per cent), Irish Potato ( 76.7 per cent), Plantain (63.8 per cent)
and Onion ( 58.4 per cent).
Consistent with the increase in production, the Domestic
Farmgate Price Index showed an overall decline of 18.3 per
cent (Table 10.8). Four of the seven crop groups recorded
declines in prices of between 24.1 per cent for Cereals to 39.3
per cent for Fruits. Increased prices were recorded for
Legumes, Roots & Tubers and Other Tubers.
The land area of Domestic Crops reaped increased by 17.1
per cent to 36 050.8 hectares. St Elizabeth continued to
account for the largest share of Domestic Crop area reaped
with 9 724.9 hectares followed by Manchester with 5 548.3
hectares and Trelawny with 5 535.2 hectares.
FISHING
For calendar year 2009, overall fish production declined
by 5.3 per cent ( Table 10.9). Marine fish production remained
relatively stable while inland fish declined by 12.6 per cent.
The decline in overall fish production was due to increased
competition from cheaper imports as well as reduced
 10.10
consumer demand, reflecting the impact of the downturn in
economic activities on consumer spending.
At the end of 2009, there were 19 738 fishers and 4 986
registered boats operating from 187 fishing beaches. This
compared with 18 250 fishers and 4 936 registered boats
operating from 187 fishing beaches at the end of 2008.
FINANCING TO THE INDUSTRY
The Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) during 2009
provided loans for potentially viable agricultural projects
through the People’s Cooperative (PC) Bank and other
Approved Financial Institutions (AFIs). The uptake of loan
funds amounted to approximately $735.9 million compared
with $890.0 million in 2008 (Table 10.10).
The wholesale lending rate from the DBJ to the AFIs was
10.0 per cent. Farmers were allowed to access local currency
loans at a rate of 13.0 per cent per annum. However, loans under
the Modernization of Agriculture & Agro-processing
Programme via the Bank of Nova Scotia, which were on-lent
through the PC Bank were made available to farmers at a rate of
10.375 per cent. In addition, a special line of funding (Dairy
Revitalization Line) offered by DBJ, in collaboration with the
Ministry of Agriculture, for revitalization of the dairy industry
was available to dairy farmers at 4.0 per cent. There were also
loans for Small and Medium sized Farmers & Agribusiness
(SME) made available to farmers at 12.5 per cent and a
Caribbean Development Bank loan for agriculture and
agribusiness which was made available to farmers at 10.0 per
cent. There were no foreign currency loans made to the
Agriculture industry in 2009.
Increased loan utilization was recorded for Domestic Crops
which moved from $14.3 million in 2008 to $115.6 million in
2009. This increase was due to loans for Greenhouse
Vegetables ($49.0 million), Irish Potatoes ($25.0 million) and
Pepper ($12.5 million).
The growth in loans for these crops was reflected in their
production as Hot Pepper production grew by 97.9 per cent,
Irish Potatoes by 76.7 per cent and Greenhouse Vegetables by
64.0 per cent. Reduced loan uptake was recorded for Livestock
and Export Crops.
The stock of agricultural loans outstanding at the end of
2009 was $2 438.3 million. Loans issued was $8 086.8 million
and the amount repaid was $5 648.5 million. The stock of
agricultural loans outstanding at commercial banks was $1
279.3 million (Table 10.11).
OUTLOOK
Real value added for Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing is
expected to continue on its robust growth path in 2010. This
growth is predicated on a continuation of programmes which
assist farmers in terms of technology, markets, extension
services and loan financing. Increased farming activities in
areas with the support of irrigation facilities and the increased
use of greenhouses should stimulate increased production.
The industry’s performance, however, may be negatively
impacted by weather shocks and the downturn in economic
activities on consumer spending.n
CHAPTER 11
MINING & QUARRYING
INTRODUCTION
R eal value added for the Mining & Quarrying industry de-
clined by 50.2 per cent in 2009 (Figure 11A). The industry
contributed 2.0 per cent to overall GDP compared with 3.8 per
cent in 2008. This was the third consecutive annual downturn and
was due to reductions in both alumina and crude bauxite produc-
tion. The decline in alumina production resulted from lower out-
put at WINDALCO (Kirkvine and Ewarton plants) and ALPART
following the cessation of production in March 2009 and April
2009, respectively. These closures were in response to the global
recession and its negative impact on the price and demand for alu-
minium which resulted in the closure of less efficient aluminium
and alumina plants. The decline in crude bauxite production was
in response to lower international demand for alumina.
Preliminary export earnings totalled US$466.8 million, a
decline from US$1 368.3 million recorded in 2008. This
contraction reflected a fall in the value and volume of both
alumina and crude bauxite exports.
Global aluminium consumption and production recorded
respective declines of 8.2 per cent and 5.9 per cent. The gap
between production and consumption led to an annual surplus in
the global stock of aluminium of 3 377 kilo tonnes.
Global consumption of alumina amounted to 73 401 kilo
tonnes, a 7.2 per cent decline compared with 2008. Global
production levels of alumina contracted by 6.6 per cent to 73 225
kilo tonnes.
POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES
The Mining & Quarrying industry operated within the
framework established by the Ministry of Energy and Mining
10.0
0.0
-10.0
PER CENT
-20.0
-30.0
-40.0
-50.0
-60.0
FIGURE 11A: MINING & QUARRYING REAL VALUE ADDED GROWTH RATE, 1999-2009
(MEM). In April 2009, portfolio responsibilities for
Telecommunications were separated from Mining. The
Ministry of Energy and Mining was created and assumed
portfolio responsibilities for Mining and Quarrying.
Mining and Quarrying Industry Plan
The MEM continued working on the draft National
Minerals Policy, which the Ministry sought to align with the
Mining and Quarrying Sector Plan of Vision 2030 Jamaica -
National Development Plan. The policy document was
slated to be resubmitted to Cabinet by May 2010.
The broad goals of the draft National Minerals Policy are
the:
— development of an industry that contributes to Ja-
maica’s sustainable development, including
management of the mineral resources and min-
eral-bear ing lands from the pre-min ing to
post-mining stage;
— expansion, diversification and modernization of
the minerals industry through increased mineral
usage, production of value added goods and ex-
port of minerals and mineral products; and
— de velop ment of a con tempo rary leg is lative
framework and supporting institutions which en-
able continued development of the minerals
industry.
In an effort to cushion the fallout in the Mining industry,
the MEM continued to collaborate with the Jamaica Trade
and Invest (JTI) to identify new markets for mineral
products. The focus was on the Industrial Minerals and the
 11.2

105

95

85

PER CENT 75

65

55

45

35
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11B: ALUMINA CAPACITY UTILIZATION, 2003-2009

Metallic Minerals sub-industries and the attraction of new
investment.
In an effort to encourage greater energy efficiency and lower
energy costs in the Bauxite and Alumina industry, by diversifying
its energy base to possibly include natural gas and coal, the
government established a special Task Force to investigate the
utilization of cheaper sources of energy.
Expansion of Access to Port Facilities
Access to cost-effective port facilities for bulk shipment
remained a critical component in the expansion of the Industrial
Minerals industry. In this regard, the Government mandated that
the Old Reynolds Pier at Ocho Rios, St. Ann, would continue
operating as a multi-purpose facility to accommodate the exports
of industrial mineral products.
Private investors continued their plans to convert the port at
Bowden, St. Thomas into an appropriate facility for the export of
bulk quantities of industrial minerals. An investor expressed the
intention to spend US$12.0 million to develop a port at Yallahs, St.
Thomas.
In Clarendon, the CEMEX Group continued its plans to
develop a required port facility to facilitate the stockpile and
export of limestone aggregates to various markets, including the
USA. The company has indicated its continued commitment to
invest US$150.0 million in developing its operations to produce
up to 12 million tonnes of material per year.
Training
Several stakeholders, including the MEM, the HEART
Trust/NCTVET, the Mining & Quarrying Association of Jamaica,
the University of Technology and local minerals industry
specialists collaborated to identify the curriculum skills required
for the industry. Standards have been established for each
competency level. This is intended to create an official training
and accreditation programme for different level of personnel in
the industry or who may wish to work in the minerals
industry.
EMPLOYMENT
Average annual employment in the Mining industry
declined by 54.5 per cent to 5 575 persons. This was
consistent with the closure of three alumina plants and
lay-offs at the crude bauxite exporting company. The
industry’s share of total employment fell by 0.3 percentage
point to 0.5 per cent of total employed persons. Employment
figures for males stood at 4 450 and females at 1 125 persons,
declining by 44.7 per cent and 34.8 per cent, respectively.
Males and females employed in the Mining & Quarrying
industry accounted for 0.7 per cent and 0.2 per cent of total
employed males and females, respectively.
BAUXITE & ALUMINA SUB-INDUSTRY
DOMESTIC PRODUCTION
Alumina
Total alumina produced amounted to 1 773 kilo tonnes, a
55.6 per cent decline compared with 2008 (Table 11.1). The
contraction in output was reflected in a lower Alumina
Capacity Utilization (ACU1) rate which moved to 39.0 per
cent in 2009 from 87.8 per cent (Figure 11B). These
reductions were due to the temporary closures of
WINDALCO and ALPART during the year.
Efficiency in the alumina industry increased, as
measured by the Caustic Soda/Alumina Conversion rate and
F u e l/ A lu mi n a co n v e r s io n r a te 2 . H o w e v er, t h e

1 Alumina Capacity Utilization rate measures the percentage of productive capacity utilized in the alumina industry.
2 Fuel, Bauxite and Caustic Soda account for the three largest input costs in the production of alumina.
 11.3

TABLE 11.1
JAMAICA BAUXITE/ALUMINA PRODUCTION AND EXPORTS
'000 tonnes
% changes
2005 2006p 2007 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008
Production
Crude Bauxite (a) 4 048.8 4 548.0 4 417.9 4 452.0 3 200.1 0.8 -28.1
Alumina 4 085.6 4 099.5 3 940.6 3 995.4 1 773.6 1.4 -55.6
Bauxite Equivalent of Alumina (b) 10 069.6 10 317.4 10 149.8 10 184.1 4 617.4 0.3 -54.7
Total Bauxite Production (c) 14 118.3 14 865.4 14 567.7 14 567.7 7 817.5 0.0 -46.3

Exports
Crude Bauxite (a) 4 058.7 4 542.9 4 451.6 4 429.3 3 196.3 -0.5 -27.8
Alumina 4 169.5 4 040.7 3 896.1 4 034.6 1 884.0 3.6 -53.3
Bauxite Equivalent of Alumina (b) 10 272.4 10 173.4 10 024.7 10 289.4 4 907.6 2.6 -52.3
Total Bauxite Exports (c) 14 331.2 14 716.3 14 476.4 14 718.7 8 103.9 1.7 -44.9

Real Value Added Growth Rates 2.8 0.9 -2.6 -2.5 -50.2 n/a n/a

r - revised
p - preliminary
Note : (c) = (a) + (b)
Bauxite Equivalent of Alumina is unprocessed bauxite used in alumina production
Source: Jamaica Bauxite Institute

Bauxite/Alumina conversion rate3 worsened. The Caustic Soda4
consumed per tonne of alumina produced declined by 33.7 per
cent to 0.07 in 2009 signalling improvement in efficiency.
Total fuel/alumina consumption per tonnes production
declined by 13.5 per cent to 2.07:15. Bauxite/Alumina conversion
rate was 2.60:1 compared with 2.55:1 in 2008 (Figure 11C).
Fuel energy
The share of total bauxite used in alumina production6
declined by 10.5 percentage points to 59.1 per cent (Figure 11D).
This was due to the larger fall in production of alumina relative to
crude bauxite as three alumina plants closed during the year.
Mirroring the downturn in alumina production, Jamaica’s
share of total global alumina production declined by 2.7
percentage points to 2.4 per cent (Figure 11.E), representing the
tenth consecutive annual decline. This was due to the: (i) closure
of some of Jamaica’s alumina plants that operate at the upper end
of the global cost curve due to relatively higher domestic energy
costs; and (ii) the rapid annual increases in alumina output by other
producers, notably China, in recent years.
Crude Bauxite
Output of Crude Bauxite fell by 28.1 per cent to reach
3 200.1 kilo tonnes (see Table 11.1). The Bauxite Capacity
Utilization7 (BCU) rate during the period was 71.1 per cent,
moving from 89.0 per cent during 2008 (Figure 11F).
This reflected reduced average annual operating
capacity at the sole exporting bauxite plant which was
negatively affected by the downturn in the global alumina
market, particularly during the first eight months the year. In
the latter part of the year, following the divestment of St. Ann
Bauxite Co. to Noranda Bauxite, there was recovery in
demand raising production up to the highest capacity level of
the past several years.
Total Bauxite
Total bauxite production amounted to 7 817.5 kilo
tonnes compared with 14 567.7 kilo tonnes a year earlier.
This was due to downturns in both crude bauxite and Bauxite
Equivalent of Alumina production (see Table 11.1).
EXPORT
Alumina
Consistent with the fall in production, the volume of
alumina exported declined by 53.3 per cent to 1 884.0 kilo
tonnes (see Table 11.1). The European region continued to
be Jamaica’s main market, accounting for 62.6 per cent of
alumina exported, with the North American Region

3 The Bauxite/Alumina (B/A) conversion rate measures the tonnes of bauxite used to produce one tonne of alumina. Thus, an increase
(decline) in the B/A conversion rate means that there is a decline (increase) in the average efficiency of converting bauxite to
alumina. The efficiency of converting bauxite to alumina can be affected by the quality of the bauxite.
4 The Caustic Soda/Alumina (CS/A) conversion rate measures the quantity of caustic soda used to produce one tonne of alumina.
Thus, an increase (decline) in the CS/A conversion rate means that there is a decline (increase) in the average efficiency of using
caustic soda in the production of alumina.
5 The Fuel/Alumina (F/A) conversion rate measures the quantity of fuel used to produce one tonne of alumina. Thus, an increase
(decline) in the F/A conversion rate means that there is a decline (increase) in the average efficiency of using fuel in the production of
alumina.
6 The share of crude bauxite used in the production of alumina captures the share of total bauxite production that is used to produce a
higher value product, that is, alumina.
7 The Bauxite Capacity Utilization rate measures the percentage of productive capacity utilized by the sole bauxite exporting plant.
 11.4

Total Fuel Consumed/Alumina Conversion

Bauxite/Alumina Conversion Rate (Tonnes) 2.65 3.00
2.60 2.50
2.55

Rate (Tonnes)
2.50 2.00
2.45 1.50
2.40 1.00
2.35
2.30 0.50
2.25 -

Bauxite/Alumina Conversion Rate Total Fuel Consumed/Alumina Conversion Rate

FIGURE 11C: BAUXITE/ALUMINA AND FUEL/ALUMINA CONVERSION RATE

accounting for 32.3 per cent. The countries that accounted for the
largest share of alumina exports from Jamaica were Canada (25.7
per cent) and Norway (15.8 per cent).
Jamaican alumina exports to the United States of America
(USA) fell by 73.9 per cent to 121.7 kilo tonnes. Other countries
recording large declines in alumina exports from Jamaica were the
Netherlands (down 475.9 kilo tonnes), Russia (down 370.9 kilo
tonnes) and Canada (down 273.4 kilo tonnes).
The countries registering the largest absolute increase in
Jamaica’s alumina exports were Georgia and China, up 115.8 kilo
tonnes and 79.6 kilo tonnes, respectively.
Crude Bauxite
The volume of crude bauxite exports at 3 196.3 kilo tonnes
declined by 27.8 per cent compared with 2008 (see Table 11.1).
This reduction stemmed from declines in all the months of 2009,
with the exception of August (up 13.9 per cent) and November (up
45.0 per cent). The overall decline in total crude bauxite exports
was in response to a fall in demand from Jamaica’s main
crude bauxite export market, the USA8.
Total Bauxite
The volume of total bauxite exported decreased by 44.9
per cent to 8 103.9 kilo tonnes. This was due mainly to a 52.3
per cent decline in the Bauxite Equivalent of Alumina.
EARNINGS
Preliminary data showed that the value of Total Exports
fell by 65.8 per cent to US$467.5 million (Table 11.2). This
reflected lower earnings from both crude bauxite (down
25.1 per cent) and alumina (down 69.6 per cent) as prices
and export volumes declined. The average export price for
alumina of US$202.87 per tonne was approximately 30.5
per cent lower than in 2008.
Foreign Exchange Inflows declined by 50.2 per cent to
US$271.1 million. This resulted mainly from a 47.6 per cent

80.0

75.0
PER CENT

70.0

65.0

60.0

55.0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11D: SHARE OF TOTAL BAUXITE USED IN THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINA

8 The Gramercy Refinery in Louisiana and the Sherwin Alumina Co. in Texas (formerly Reynolds) purchase all of Jamaica’s Crude
Bauxite exported.
 11.5

8.0

7.0

6.0

PER CENT
5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11E: JAMAICA’S SHARE OF GLOBAL ALUMINA PRODUCTION

decline in the Local Cost component of the category Net Foreign
Exchange. The reduction in this category was associated with
lower funds remitted by the parent companies for operational
expenses such as wages and salaries, given the closure of the three
plants. Other elements in the Net Foreign Exchange Inflows
category that registered declines were the Bauxite Levy (down
70.3 per cent) and Royalty (40.5 per cent).
ALUMINA PRODUCTION COST
The Operating Cost of Production declined by 30.1 per cent to
US$216.6 per tonne (Table 11.3).
The Fuel/Energy cost per tonne, which accounted for 39.6 per
cent of total Operating Costs, declined by 49.2 per cent. This
resulted from the relatively lower price of crude oil9 on the
international market during 2009. Labour cost per metric tonne
grew by 0.7 per cent.
Closure of local alumina plants and its impact on
the Jamaican Economy
The decline in demand for aluminium and the
subsequent fall in prices resulted in Jamaica’s bauxite and
alumina industry undergoing its worst crisis since the 1980s.
Aluminium is an essential raw material for a wide range of
industries which were negatively affected by the global
economic recession. As demand for aluminium fell,
producers reduced operations at smelters and alumina plants
internationally to prevent a build-up of inventory. Jamaica’s
bauxite/alumina plants are among the less efficient, and
consequently, the following measures were undertaken at
the various plants:
— ALPART: UC Rusal, the majority owner of this
entity, announced in January 2009 the decision to
reduce production by half. However, due to fur-
ther market deterioration, the company ceased

95.0

90.0
PER CENT

85.0

80.0

75.0

70.0

65.0
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11F: BAUXITE CAPACITY UTILIZATION RATE

9 Average Spot Peak Crude Oil prices for 2009 was US$61.76 per barrel compared with US$96.99 per barrel in 2008.
 11.6

TABLE 11.2
TOTAL VALUE OF EXPORTS & FOREIGN EXCHANGE EARNINGS
2005-2009 (US$ MILLION)

% Change
2005 2006p 2007 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

Crude Bauxite 98.7 113.5 113.0 115.0 86.1 1.8 -25.1

Alumina 920.9 1 033.6 1 202.1 1 253.3 381.3 4.3 -69.6
Total Export Value 1 019.6 1 147.1 1 315.1 1 368.3 467.5 4.0 -65.8

Total Tax Receipt-(b) 60.1 70.7 99.9 66.0 19.6 -33.9 -70.3
Income Tax 12.6 12.5 26.8 0.0 0.0 -100.0 0.0
Bauxite Levy 47.5 58.2 73.1 66.0 19.6 -9.7 -70.3
Royalty (c) 11.6 12.3 10.7 12.0 7.1 12.1 -40.5
Local Cost & Net Forex e -(d) 307.0 551.1 472.8 466.0 244.4 -1.4 -47.6

Foreign Exchange Inflows (a) 378.7 634.1 583.4 544.0 271.1 -6.7 -50.2

r - revised
p - preliminary
a - Net forex is earnings by Government owned entities in the Bauxite/Alumina sub-sector
(a) = (b) + (c) + (d)
Source: Compiled from data supplied by Jamaica Bauxite Institute

production in April 2009. Approximately 900 perma-
nent employees were made redundant. (Table 11.4)
— WINDALCO: Given the challenges faced by UC
Rusal, the majority owner of WINDALCO, the com-
pany’s Kirkvine and Ewarton operations were closed in
April 2009.
nities in St Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon and
St Ann have reported significant downturns in
business activities; and
— Negative impact on the following industries:
— Transport, Storage and Communications;

— Noranda Bauxite Jamaica Ltd (formerly St. Ann Baux-
ite Co.): The curtailment of aluminium and alumina
output also affected the sole exporter of crude bauxite
in Jamaica. The company initially reduced production
by 28.8 per cent in early 2009 as its customers in the
USA cut alumina production. However, following the
takeover by Noranda Bauxite at the end of August
2009, the rate of production was increased above 2008
and 2007 levels.
The impact of the closures of the above-mentioned companies
on the Jamaican economy resulted in:
— Balance of Payments challenges - Foreign exchange in-
flows from the industry fell by 50.2 per cent to
US$270.7 million. Total Export Value also contracted,
reaching $466.8 million in 2009 from U$1 368.3 mil-
lion in 2008;
— Reduced Government Revenue Intake - Total Tax Re-
ceipts from the bauxite industry, including bauxite levy,
corporate income tax, PAYE income tax, statutory de-
ductions and other revenues to government, which
stood at US$ 66.0 million in 2008 declined to US$19.2
million in 2009;
— Loss of Jobs – There were job cuts at the affected alu-
mina plants and the Noranda Bauxite Co. (formerly St
Ann Bauxite Co.). This does not include those that will
result from the impact of the closures on local suppliers
of goods and services to the industry. Bauxite commu-
— Manufacturing – Chemicals and Chemical Prod-
ucts; and
— Energy and Electricity.
INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENT
International Aluminium Market
Total world production of aluminium decreased by 5.9
per cent to 37 781 kilo tonnes (Table 11.5).
Countries recording the largest declines were USA (35.1
per cent) and Russia (9.0 per cent) to reach 1 725 kilo tonnes
and 3 814 kilo tonnes, respectively. All regions, with the
exception of Asia, recorded declines in production. The
performance of the Asian region resulted mainly from
increased production from China, which accounted for 36.4
per cent of total global production.
Despite the fall in total output levels, world aluminium
production capacity grew by 8.6 per cent to 49 200 kilo
tonnes, resulting in a capacity utilization rate of 77.0 per cent
compared with 89.0 per cent in 2008 (Figure 11G).
Total world aluminium consumption fell by 8.2 per cent
to 34 341 kilo tonnes, the second consecutive decline
recorded (see Table 11.5). This performance reflected
reduced aluminium consumption from the USA and Europe,
which recorded respective declines of 28.2 per cent and 25.6
per cent.
 11.7

TABLE 11.3
SELECTED COSTS OF PRODUCTION PER UNIT OF ALUMINA PRODUCTION IN THE BAUXITE/ALU-
MINA SUB-INDUSTRY
2005-2009 (US$/Metric Tonne)
% Change
2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

Operating Cost of Production (a) 162.7 212.6 238.4 309.7 216.6 29.9 -30.1
Bauxite 29.4 33.8 38.4 44.6 25.2 16.1 -43.4
Caustic Soda 22.5 32.2 31.9 33.2 38.3 4.2 15.4
Fuel/Energy 74.4 101.9 109.3 168.9 85.8 54.5 -49.2
Labour 8.9 9.7 9.1 14 14.1 53.9 0.7
Other Operating Cost 27.5 35.0 49.7 48.9 53.1 -1.6 8.6

Indirect & Port Operations Costs (b) 33.6 36.5 30.7 45.6 n/a 48.5 n/a

Overall Cost of Production (c) 196.3 249.1 269.1 358.6 n/a 33.3 n/a

a. Operating costs of alumina production comprise direct and raw material

b. Indirect and Port Operation cost comprise overhead, management and port costs
c. The overall cost of alumina production comprise operating costs and indirect & port operation costs.
(a)+(b)=(c)
p - preliminary
r - revised
n.a. - not applicable
Source: Compiled from data supplied from Jamaica Bauxite Institute, Economic Division

The decrease in consumption from the USA and Europe was
due to the continued effects of the global recession that led to the
contraction in the construction and auto industries10. Aluminium
consumption by China, however, grew by 11.0 per cent to 13 994
kilo tonnes, reflecting the impact of the government’s stimulus
package that boosted construction and automotive production.
The declines in production and consumption resulted in a net
surplus of aluminium totalling 3 440 kilo tonnes. This led to an
increase in the global stock of primary aluminium to 6 277 kilo
tonnes compared with 4 563 kilo tonnes in 2008.
The 12-month average London Metal Exchange (LME)
aluminium spot price fell by 35.2 per cent to US$1 667 per tonne in
2009 (Figure 11H). This decline which began in the fourth
Quarter of 2008 continued to the second Quarter of 2009. The
price for aluminium averaged US$1 423.5 per tonne and US$ 1
903.0 per tonne for the first and second half of 2009, respectively.
INTERNATIONAL ALUMINA MARKET
Total world consumption of alumina fell by 6.6 per cent to 73
225 kilo tonnes in 2009. This contraction in alumina consumption
was consistent with the decline in aluminium production. Total
world alumina production declined by 7.2 per cent to 73 401 kilo
tonnes. Despite the decline in total global alumina output,
production from China grew by 4.8 per cent to 23 499 kilo tonnes.
China accounted for the largest share (32.0 per cent) of world
alumina production.
INDUSTRIAL MINERALS SUB-INDUSTRY
(QUARRYING)
Developments in the Industrial Minerals (Quarrying)
sub-industry was severely affected by the deepening global
recession. With the closure of three of the four alumina
plants the completion of a major road rehabilitation
programme and other infrastructural projects, production of
most industrial minerals declined relative to 2008.
Silica Sand
The production of silica sand amounted to 6 792 tonnes,
a 54.1 per cent decrease compared with 2008. This decline in
production was attributed to a downturn in the building
industry in 2009. This quarry material is primarily used in
the production of thin set for the laying of floor tiles,
especially ceramic and porcelain tiles.
Limestone
Limestone production fell by 24.3 per cent to 1 913 767
tonnes. This performance was primarilly the result of the
decrease in construction activities and the production of
alumina due to the closure of three of the four local alumina
plants. Lime is widely used in the conversion of bauxite to
alumina and is also used primarily in the construction
industry and segments of the manufacturing industry.
Whiting (High Purity Limestone)
Over 169 000 tonnes of whiting was produced and
exported in 2009. This represented a 57.0 per cent increase
over 2008. This material is obtained from the mining and
processing of high purity limestone.
Gypsum
Production of gypsum amounted to 156 877 tonnes,
representing a 34.2 per cent decrease compared with 2008.

10 Transport, Packaging and Construction industries are the three largest consumers of aluminium.
 11.8

TABLE 11.4
OPERATIONAL STATUS OF BAUXITE/ALUMINA COMPANIES
COMPANY LOCATION OPERATION STATUS CAPACITY OWNERSHIP
St. Ann Bauxite Jamaica Discovery Bay, St. Ann Operational at 71.1 per cent in 5.0 million tonnes of Government of Jamaica - 51% and
Jamaica Bauxite Partners 2009 bauxite per year Noranda - 49%

Alumina Partners of Nain, St. Elizabeth Ceased Operations in April 2009 1.75 million tonnes of UC Rusal (Russian company) - 65 %
Jamaica (ALPART) and closed in May 2009 alumina per year and Hydro Aluminium (Norwegian
company) - 35 %

JAMALCO Halse Hall, Clarendon Operational at 96.1 per cent 1.45 million tonnes of Alcoa (USA) - 55% and Government
capacity in 2009 alumina per year of Jamaica - 45%. Clarendon Alumina
Production (CAP) manages the govern-
ment's interest in JAMALCO

West Indies Alumina 1. Kirkvine, Ceased production in March 2009 1.35 million tonnes of UC Rusal - 93% and Governmet of Ja-
Company (WINDALCO) Manchester and closed in April 2009 alumina per year maica - 7%
2. Ewarton, St. Catherine

Source: Compiled from data supplied by the Jamaica Bauxite Institute

Exports of the product fell by 3.5 per cent due to a decline in
regional demand.
Marble
Production of marble remained unchanged at 120 tonnes. This
industry continued to be severely affected by high production
costs, strong competition from imported marble and ceramic
products. These factors have continued to impact negatively on
investments for this product.
Sand and Gravel
Sand and gravel production stood at 2 600 000 tonnes, a 12.9
per cent decline compared with 2008. The decline in production
was attributable to the completion of major infrastructural projects
in Jamaica and the general downturn in the building and
construction industry. Exports of sand and gravel, however,
recorded a 60.0 per cent increase when compared with the
previous year.
Marl and Fill
Total production of marl and fill stood at 2 055 000 tonnes,
down 25.0 per cent when compared with 2008. This was attributed
to the completion of the construction and rehabilitation of a
number of major roadways across the island.
Pozzolon
The production of Pozzolon grew by 6.6 per cent to 132
470 tonnes. Pozzolon is used primarily in the production of
Portland cement and some of this material was also exported
to markets in the region.
Shale
A total of 164 471 tonnes of shale was produced during
2009, a decline of 17.9 per cent. Shale is a key ingredient in
the production of cement.
Clay
Clay production fell by 20.0 per cent to reach 81 001
tonnes in 2009. Clay is used primarily as a sealant in specific
infrastructural projects.

95.0

90.0
PER CENT

85.0

80.0

75.0

70.0

65.0
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11G: WORLD ALUMINIUM CAPACITY UTILIZATION RATE

 11.9

TABLE 11.5
PRIMARY ALUMINIUM PRODUCTION/CONSUMPTION BALANCE, 2005-2009
('000 TONNES)

%Change
REGION/COUNTRIES 2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

USA 2 481 2 279 2 559 2 659 1 725 3.9 -35.1

Canada 2 901 3 050 3 083 3 124 3 032 1.3 -2.9
Europe n/a n/a 9 213 9 757 8 152 5.9 -16.4
of which Western Europe 4 712 4 257 4 650 4 975 3 923 7.0 -21.1
of which Russia n/a n/a 3 971 4 191 3 814 5.5 -9.0
Asia n/a n/a 16 568 17 922 18 474 8.2 3.1
of which China 7 813 9 236 12 574 13 695 13 749 8.9 0.4
Others (1) n/a n/a 15 246 15 680 15 352 -0.3 -4.1

TOTAL WORLD PRODUCTION (b) 31 979 33 785 38 112 40 133 37 781 5.3 -5.9

TOTAL WORLD CONSUMPTION (c) 31 890 34 172 37 838 37 420 34 341 -1.1 -8.2
Surplus/Deficit (b-c) 89 -387 274 2 713 3 440 890.1 26.8

Note: This category includes Other Europe, Other Asia, Latin America, Africa, & Middle East & Australasia
n/a - not available
r - revised
p - preliminary
Source: Compiled from data supplied from the CRU Metal Monitor

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS streamlining its operations, following the impact of the

On August 31, 2009, Noranda Aluminium Holding
Corporation completed the agreement to divest St. Ann Bauxite
Ltd. from Century Aluminium Company. Following the
acquisition which gave Noranda 49.0 per cent shares of the mining
assets and 100.0 per cent of the output as well as the management
responsibility of the bauxite entity, St Ann Jamaica Bauxite
Partners had a name change to become Noranda Bauxite Jamaica
Co.
The company reverted to its 40-hour workweek for its
workforce given projections to increase production by 25.0 per
cent beginning in December 2009. Earlier in 2009, in
economic crisis, St. Ann Bauxite Ltd. made several positions
redundant and cut the work time of remaining employees by
three days per month. Export figures for 2010 are projected
at 4.6 million tonnes, up from the initial projection of 3.1
million tonnes.
OUTLOOK
Real value added for the Mining & Quarrying industry is
projected to decline in the range of 12.0 per cent to 14.0 per
cent for 2010. This performance is predicated on the
WINDALCO and ALPART alumina plants, which ceased
operations in March and April 2009, respectively, remaining

3000
US$/Metric Tonnes

2000

1000

0
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 11H: ALUMINIUM 12-MONTH AVERAGE PRICE ON THE LONDON METAL EXCHANGE
 11.10

TABLE 11.6
PRODUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL MINERALS, 2005-2009
'000 Tonnes
% change
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008
INDUSTRIAL MINERALS
Silica Sand 14.3 9.6 14.5 14.8 6.8 2.1 -54.1
Limestone 2 610 2 801 2 950 2 527.5 1 913.8 -14.3 -24.3
Gypsum 302.1 364.4 227.7 238.3 156.9 4.7 -34.2
Marble 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0
Sand and Gravel 2 392 2 760 3 611 2 985 2 600 -17.3 -12.9
Marl & Fill 5 310 3 001 3 228 2 740 2 055 -15.1 -25.0
Pozzolan 79.0 149.3 114.5 124.3 132.5 8.6 6.6
Shale 164.3 180.0 168.4 200.3 164.5 18.9 -17.9
Clay 45.0 102.6 663.8 101.2 81.0 -84.8 -20.0

r - revised
p - preliminary
Source: Mines and Geology Division

closed throughout 2010. As a consequence, alumina production is
projected to fall as only the JAMALCO plant is expected to be in
operation. However, crude bauxite production is anticipated to
grow. This is associated with Noranda Bauxite’s increased share
ownership of the St. Ann Bauxite Company 11.
The industry’s projected contraction in 2010 will stem from a
decline during the first six months as an increase in real value
added is projected for July-December 2010. For January – June
2010, the industry is projected to decline between 23.0 per cent
and 25.0 per cent due to lower alumina production. An increase in
value added of between 2.0 per cent and 3.0 per cent is projected
for July – December 2010 and is predicated in part on increased
global demand for alumina associated with expectations of a
gradual recovery in the global economy during this period.
Consequently, both JAMALCO and Noranda Bauxite Jamaica
Ltd, are expected to increase production even further in response
to this demand. In addition, during the final six months of 2010,
the adverse impact of the closure of the three alumina plants on
real value added would have tapered12.
However, in the event there is increased global demand for
aluminium, this would lead to some reactivation of Jamaica’s
alumina capacity the local industry will, therefore, be projected to
undergo some recovery.
A major project to overhaul several of the countries main
roadways and the parochial road network is scheduled to
commence in April 2010. It is expected that there will be an
increase in the demand for quarry products such as sand, gravel,
marl and fill to satisfy the material requirements for these project.
There are also plans to exploit large volumes of limestone in
the parishes of St. Thomas, Clarendon, Manchester and St. Ann.
The ongoing rehabilitation of the Palisadoes Road and the
expansion and rehabilitation of port facilities at Gordon Quay and
Fort Agusta will ensure that there is continued demand for
limestone, marl, fill, sand and gravel. The continuation of the
construction of the Bushy Park to Moneague Toll Road and
the Falmouth Pier will also see an increase in the demand for
these quarry products.
Notwithstanding the general decline in production in the
Industrial Minerals sub-industry, there was a significant
increase in the production and export of whiting13. As the
international demand for this material increases, the Mines
and Geology Division has embarked on an aggressive
programme geared towards the identification and
exploitation of the limestone feedstock at strategic locations
throughout the island. The Division will also continue to
promote the production of manufactured sand from suitable
quarry materials and to identify possible on and off-shore
sites from which beach sand can be extracted to nourish
beaches, especially along the North Coast of Jamaica.
The industry has experienced a number of challenges
over the last year, but with the number of on-going and
planned infrastructural projects, and the attention being
shown by international markets for limestone and sand and
gravel, the outlook is positive for 2010 and beyond.
Additionally, closer integration with various manufacturing,
pharmaceutical and construction activities, will serve to
increase the industry’s value-added output and value to the
economy.¢

11 Noranda Bauxite has a ready market for Jamaica’s crude bauxite and has been increasing production levels since acquiring majority
shares in the company during the final quarter of 2009.
12 The three alumina plants were already closed during the second half of 2009, as a result by July- December 2010 there would have
been a stabilization in the industry
13 Whiting is derived from a limestone with high brightness and high purity.
CHAPTER 12

MANUFACTURE

INTRODUCTION members of the private sector. The GOJ put in place a

Real value added for the Manufacture industry was
estimated to have declined by 5.0 per cent during 2009 (Figure
12A) and contributed 8.3 per cent to total gross domestic
product. This performance was due to declines in both major
components of the industry: Food, Beverages & Tobacco and
Other Manufacturing. With the intensification of the impact of
the global financial and economic crisis on the Jamaican
economy, the conditions within which the industry operated
worsened relative to 2008. Additionally, production levels in
Other Manufacturing were negatively impacted by the
downturn in the Construction and Mining & Quarrying
industries.
The decline in Manufacture was attributable to challenges
on the demand as well as the supply side. In terms of demand
there were difficulties associated with the contraction in
disposable income and weakened confidence among
consumers, to which producers responded by reducing
production. Supply-side constraints which existed in 2008
worsened in the first half of 2009 as the credit market tightened
and operational expenses increased. In recognition of the
supply-side challenges, special facilities were extended to the
industry both by the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) and
Stimulus Package and special loan facilities were extended by
various financial institutions.
Data at the end of December 2009 indicated that there was
a reduction in the value of Manufactured Exports relative to
the comparable period in 2008. Consistent with falling global
demand and commodity prices, the value of locally
manufactured exports declined and was reflective of lower
export earnings for both Traditional and Non-Traditional
Exports.
POLICY & PROGRAMMES
The Manufacture industry continued to operate within the
policy and programmatic framework established by the
Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce. During 2009,
the Ministry continued efforts to:
– promote industrial and commercial development
within the industry;
– sensitize local producers to international standards
and best practices; and
– encourage strengthening of productive capacity with
a view to improving global competitiveness.

2.0

1.0

0.0
Growth Rate (%)

-1.0

-2.0

-3.0

-4.0

-5.0

-6.0
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 12A: GROWTH IN REAL VALUE ADDED FOR MANUFACTURE

 12.2

Government of Jamaica Stimulus Package
In January 2009, manufacturers benefited from a number of
initiatives1 primarily to facilitate access to credit and reduce
operating costs. The benefits that were extended to
manufacturers by way of the stimulus package were:
– the removal of Custom User Fees payable on capital
goods and raw materials;
– a reduction of the time allowed for depreciating the cost
of capital equipment from two years to one; and
– an adjustment in the Government procurement policy
to provide a 10.0 per cent margin of preference to Ja-
maican owned companies.
Quality Environmental and Food Safety Systems
The Quality Jamaica Project ended in 2009. The project,
which was implemented to elevate the level of efficiency and
competitiveness of Jamaican Small and Micro businesses,
benefited local manufactures and served to, among other things:
– increase the ability of producers to meet regulatory re-
quirements;
– improve product quality and business efficiency; and
– expose producers to affordable technical assistance.
Furniture and Wooden Products Incubator Project
Design Centre
In December 2009, the Furniture and Wooden Products
Incubator Project Design Centre was officially launched. The
Design Centre was one of the main outputs of the pilot phase of
the Furniture and Wooden Products Incubator Project. The
project was designed with a view to improving the quality of the
infrastructure of the local furniture sub-industry, and to provide
technical business support to small manufacturers. The Design
Centre will among other things:
– produce and provide standardized designs for manu-
facturers;
– produce and provide quality prototypes for manufac-
turers; and
– supply information to large buyers of furniture.
Geographical Indications
The Geographical Indications 2 (GIs) Act became
operational as the Geographical Indications Regulations were
completed and gazetted. Islandwide seminars on GIs were held
to sensitize producers about this intellectual property regime for
the protection of their products. The seminars were hosted by
the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office in collaboration with
the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property as part of the
GIs project which commenced in 20083.
The Scrap Metal Industry
The Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce in
conjunction with other stakeholders developed mechanisms to
monitor locations engaged in the packaging of scrap metals for
export with a view to intercepting individuals engaging in
illegal operations. This development was a direct response to
the re-emergence of theft as a threat to the country’s
infrastructure. Further, in September 2009, the Ministry gave
the Scrap Metal Association one month in which to determine
whether any of its members were engaged in purchasing stolen
scrap metal for export in breach of the Trade (Scrap Metal)
Regulations, 2007.
Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA)
During the year the JMA focused mainly on product
marketing; market access; creation of an enabling
environment; and capacity building. The activities and
projects undertaken included:
– promotion of the ‘Buy Jamaican... Build Jamaica’
message to consumers; and entrepreneurship among
youth;
– trade missions in partnership with Jamaica Trade & In-
vest and the Jamaica Exporters’ Association in which
some companies showcased their products, resulting
in the identification of 70 ‘leads’ and new sales of
US$10,000.00;
– completion of the ‘Hidden Costs’ in the manufacture
industry study, which was done in partnership with the
Canadian Cooperation Fund. The results of the study
identified some of the obstacles to competitiveness as
being systemic criminal violence; corruption; bureau-
cracy; poor utility services; lack of “Joined Up” Gov-
ernment; user fees, permits and taxation policy; and
– three workshops to build the capacity of members to
respond to the financial crisis and enhance efficiency
and competitiveness4.

1 These initiatives were announced by the Government of Jamaica in December 2008 and represented its effort to assist manufacturers
as they sought to overcome the challenges associated with the downturn in the demand for their goods and the tightening of the credit
market.
2 A Geographical Indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and qualities or a reputation as a result
of that place or origin.
3 In May 2008, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office and the Swiss Federal
Institute of Intellectual Property for a Geographical Indications Project to be undertaken in Jamaica.
4 Sessions focused on the Art of Cash Management; Productivity Improvement in Business; and Risk Management.

PERFORMANCE
Producer Price5 Index6
The average Producer Price Index (PPI) for the Manufacture
industry was 13.1 per cent higher than for the 2008. All groups
contributed to this increase except Refined Petroleum Products
which declined by 9.4 per cent. Groups with the largest increases
were Rubber & Plastic Products; Food, Beverages & Tobacco;
and Other Manufacturing. Increases in some utility expenses,
transportation costs and the depreciation in the Jamaican
currency were the main factors that influenced these
movements.
Production
The real value added for the Manufacture industry declined
by 5.0 per cent, due to declines in the two main components of
the industry. Food, Beverages & Tobacco and Other
Manufacturing declined for all four quarters in 2009 and for the
year by 3.9 per cent and 6. 3 per cent, respectively. The Planning
Institute of Jamaica’s Survey of Selected Manufactured goods
indicated that there were lower levels of production for most of
the products surveyed (Table 12.1).
Food, Beverages & Tobacco
Food Processing
The PIOJ’s Survey of Selected Manufactured goods found
that gross output for the Food Processing group declined. This
was due to lower levels of output for seven of the 10
commodities in the group compared with 2008. The main
detractors from growth in the group were Edible Fats (down
19.5 per cent); Dairy Products (down 14.5 per cent); Edible Oils
(down 9.8 per cent); and Sugar (down 7.2 per cent).
The contraction in sugar production reflected the extent to
which the sugar cane crop was negatively affected by inclement
weather conditions and the uncertainties surrounding the
divestment of the Government-owned sugar factories. Both
factors resulted in insufficient raw material for the production of
sugar. Less Edible Fats, Edible Oils and Dairy Products were
produced as a response by manufacturers to the fall-off in
consumer demand for these commodities. The impact of these
reductions on Food Processing was tempered by higher output
for Condensed Milk (24.2 per cent); Cornmeal (8.1 per cent);
and Flour (3.3 per cent).
Beverages & Tobacco
Gross output for Beverages & Tobacco declined in 2009.
Declines in Beer (18.7 per cent), Stout (22.3 per cent) and
Carbonated Beverages (5.7 per cent) outweighed the 0.1 per
cent increase in the production of Alcohol. The reduced output
of Beer, Stout and Carbonated Beverages was reflective of
producers’ response to the contraction in demand.
5 The Producer Price is the amount received by the producer from the purchaser for a unit of good or service produced as output. It
excludes all deductible taxes, suppliers’ retail and wholesale margins and separately invoiced transport and insurance charges.
6 The Producer Price Index is a measure of the average change in the price of goods and services, either as they leave the place of
production or as they enter the production process. This index is based on either output or input prices.
7 The category Other Petroleum Products consists of Napthasolvent, ADO Bunker, HFO Bunker, Asphalt-60/70, Asphalt 85/100 and
Emulsion Asphalt.
12.3
Other Manufacturing
Non-Metallic Minerals & Plastic Products
Cement production increased marginally by 0.3 per cent.
However, performance in the Non-Metallic Minerals group
was constrained by the downturn in construction activities,
which resulted in the lower demand for other non-metallic
products such as concrete, blocks and tiles.
Gross output in Plastic Products declined. There was no
production of Boots, while the category Other Plastic Products
declined by 7.9 per cent (see Table 12.1). Lower production in
the sub-group Other Plastics was attributed to the decline in
demand for locally produced plastic products. This was
consistent with:
– increased demand for cheaper imported alternatives;
and
– the downturn in activities within the Food, Beverages
& Tobacco component of the industry, which uses
plastic products in the packaging of their products.
During the year, as one of its strategic business decisions,
four departments at one of the main producers of plastic
closed. Other Plastic Products with the largest fall-off in
production were:
– Bags, which declined by 393 0510 to zero;
– Foam, down by 372 430 kilograms to 1 206 922 kilo-
grams;
– 12 Ounce Bottles, which fell by 172 131 to 1 484 840;
and
– 10 Ounce Bottles, down 147 966 to 1 513 171.
Petroleum Products
For 2009, gross output in the Petroleum Product group
declined marginally. Lower production levels for Liquid
Petroleum Gas (LPG); Automotive Diesel Oil; Fuel Oil; and
Gasoline outweighed the increases recorded for Turbo Oil and
Other Petroleum Products7. Production of refined products
was also affected in June when an accident at the Petrojam Pier
resulted in the plant being operated for only 17 days in that
month.
Chemicals & Chemical Products
The decrease in gross output for the group Chemicals &
Chemical Products was due to the contraction in production
for most of the products surveyed. The commodity with the
largest decline was Detergent, reflecting producers’ response
to the lower demand and the consequent closure of one of the
large producers.
Lower levels of rainfall in the Caribbean region compared
with 2008 had a negative impact on activities within the
 12.4

TABLE 12.1
OUTPUT OF SELECTED MANUFACTURED COMMODITIES, 2005-2009

% Change
UNIT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008
FOOD, BEVERAGES & TOBACCO

Food Processing
Poultry Meat tonnes 101 513 104 012 106 580 106 721 103 860 0.1 -2.7
Animal Feeds tonnes 367 581 378 165 377 029 390 929 390 221 3.7 -0.2
Condensed Milk tonnes 15 149 11 436 13 277 11 981 14 885 -9.8 24.2
Edible Oils tonnes 16 693 21 122 21 306 20 642 18 617 -3.1 -9.8
Edible Fats tonnes 6 995 7 581 7 676 7 967 6 417 3.8 -19.5
Flour tonnes 135 373 129 322 124 928 132 397 136 782 6.0 3.3
Cornmeal tonnes 11 617 11 196 10 706 9 475 10 240 -11.5 8.1
Sugar tonnes 122 100 141 200 163 067 140 599 130 500 -13.8 -7.2
Molasses tonnes 60 400 74 500 78 265 62 654 57 679 -19.9 -7.9
Dairy Products tonnes 6 028 5 021 5 704 4 525 3 868 -20.7 -14.5
Beverages & Tobacco
Alcohol (incl. rum) '000 ltrs 26 233 22 940 21 850 22 620 22 636 3.5 0.1
Beer '000 ltrs 63 592 66 898 66 025 66 639 54 179 0.9 -18.7
Stout '000 ltrs 20 065 20 057 20 921 19 346 15 025 -7.5 -22.3
Carbonated Beverages '000 ltrs 123 457 8 500 9 159 9 243 8 716 0.9 -5.7
Cigarettes '000's 728 425 n/p n/p n/p n/p
OTHER MANUFACTURING
Chemicals & Chemical Products
Sulphuric Acid tonnes 17 074 17 575 16 230 14 149 10 826 -12.8 -23.5
Aluminium Sulphate tonnes 10 121 10 666 12 044 11 960 9 160 -0.7 -23.4
Sulphonic Acid tonnes 7 857 7 475 5 403 5 937 4 323 9.9 -27.2
Salt (Nacl) tonnes 13 780 13 358 12 833 12 506 14 412 -2.5 15.2
Fertilizer tonnes 54 504 48 827 42 138 26 994 29 121 -35.9 7.9
Detergent tonnes 1 519 1 609 2 194 2 457 1 568 12.0 -36.2
Paint '000 ltrs 12 073 11 598 12 061 11 356 10 767 -5.8 -5.2

Petroleum Products
Gasolene '000 ltrs 89 071 178 738 170 370 176 516 175 375 3.6 -0.6
LPG '000 ltrs 6 990 18 388 14 244 22 158 19 199 55.6 -13.4
Fuel Oil '000 ltrs 257 302 625 249 760 258 811 802 788 946 6.8 -2.8
Turbo Fuel '000 ltrs 52 043 81 764 67 453 87 787 109 850 30.1 25.1
Automotive Diesel Oil '000 ltrs 99 898 254 425 227 836 206 538 191 631 -9.3 -7.2
Other Petroleum Products '000 ltrs 11 738 53 558 27 312 22 357 28 842 -18.1 29.0

Non Metallic Minerals

Cement tonnes 844 843 760 174 774 071 734 528 736 919 -5.1 0.3

Plastic Products
Boots tonnes 227 246 215 75 0 -65.1 -100.0
Other Plastic Products - a tonnes 6 055 6 560 5 947 5 121 4 719 -13.9 -7.9

a includes PET bottles

p - preliminary
n/a. - not available
nlp - no longer produced

Source: Survey conducted by the PIOJ

 12.5

TABLE 12.2
TOTAL EXPORTS FROM THE MANUFACTURE INDUSTRY,2007-2009
US$(000)

% Change
TRADITIONAL 2007 2008r 2009p 2009
2008
Sugar 100 277.0 104 251.0 72 331.0 -30.6
Other Products 5 611.0 2 091.0 2 700.0 29.1
Rum 45 705.0 43 662.0 48 597.0 11.3

TOTAL TRADITIONAL EXPORTS 151 593.0 150 004.0 123 628.0 -17.6

NON-TRADITIONAL
Processed Foods 92 146.0 91 532.0 93 616.0 2.3
Beverages & Tobacco 52 588.0 49 638.0 53 092.0 7.0
Crude Materials 81 268.0 25 224.0 16 672.0 -33.9
Mineral Fuels 325 984.0 434 355.0 212 713.0 -51.0
Animal & Veg. Oils 85.0 56.0 185.0 230.4
Chemicals 29 018.0 51 400.0 28 927.0 -43.7
Ethanol 154 764.0 395 363.0 169 597.0 -57.1
Manufactured Goods 6 157.0 4 785.0 15 793.0 230.1
Machinery Equipt. 1 284.0 1 277.0 1 750.0 37.0
Misc. Manufactures 10 538.0 9 947.0 7 014.0 -29.5

TOTAL NON-TRADITIONAL EXPORTS 753 832.0 1 063 577.0 599 359.0 -43.6

TOTAL EXPORTS 905 425.0 1 213 581.0 722 987.0 -40.4

r: revised
p: preliminary
Source: Compiled from data supplied by STATIN

Chemicals & Chemical Products group. The production of Exports

Aluminium Sulphate, which is used in the treatment of water
during periods of heavy rainfall, declined by 23.4 per cent for
2009, compared with 2008 when there was very high demand
for the commodity because of extremely heavy rainfall
throughout the region.
Sulphuric Acid production declined by 23.5 per cent
primarily because of the downturn in the bauxite industry, one of
the main consumers of the product; and lower levels of rainfall
in the region. In the Bauxite industry sulphuric acid is used in
cleaning the plants and it is a major ingredient in the production
of Aluminium Sulphate.
Consistent with the downturn in construction activities,
there was lower demand for paint. Local producers therefore
reduced the volume of paint produced.
For 2009, the total value of manufactured exports was
US$722.9 million, 40.4 per cent below the comparable period
in 2008 (Table 12.2). This decline reflected the reduced value
of Traditional and Total Non-Traditional Manufactured
Exports.
The value of Total Traditional Manufactured Exports
was US$123.6 million, 17.6 per cent lower than for the
comparable period in 2008, and attributable solely to the
fall-off in the value of sugar exports. The lower value of sugar
was due to the (i) contraction in production; and (ii) ending of
the EU/ACP Preferential Trade Agreement, which resulted in
the phased removal of preferential market access and prices
previously extended to Caribbean countries.

The prices of the local fertilizer blends were lowered on May
27, 2009. As a consequence, demand for locally produced
fertilizer increased resulting in production growing by 7.9 per
cent. Demand was also driven by increased agricultural
production (see chapter on Agriculture).
The value of Total Non-Traditional Exports for the
period 2009 was US$599.3 million, 43.6 per cent less than for
the comparable period in 2008 (see Table 12.2). The decline in
value was due to reduced earnings for Mineral Fuels, Ethanol,
Chemicals, Crude Materials and Miscellaneous
Manufactures. Lower Crude Material exports was influenced
in part by restrictions on operations within the Scrap Metal
Industry by the Ministry of Industry Investment and
Commerce while the value of Ethanol exports was influenced
by the lack of production during the period January–March
2009.
 12.6

450.0
400.0
350.0
300.0
US$Million

250.0
200.0
150.0
100.0
50.0
0.0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
X-Axis

FIGURE 12B: VALUE OF APPAREL EXPORTS

Apparel Industry Employment

Earnings in the apparel industry, which peaked at US$582.3
million in 1995, have consistently declined following factory
closures and relocation of production activities to other
countries. This downturn reflected, among other things,
increased domestic production costs, particularly the cost of
security, that led to key manufacturers scaling down or
relocating operations. This resulted in a loss of market share in
the United States of America, the major apparel market.
Export Earnings in the apparel industry in 2009 continued to
trend downwards (Figure 12B), declining by 95.0 per cent to
US$1.11 million (Table 12.3). There were no earnings for
apparel exports under the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership
Act (CBTPA). Earnings from apparel classified as Cut, Make
and Trim (CMT) declined by 96.0 per cent to US$ 0.008 million
while exports in the category Others declined by 61.0 per cent to
US$1.1 million.
Consistent with the decline in production, average
employment in the Manufacture industry declined relative to
2008. Average employment in the Manufacture industry for
2009 was 77 700 persons, accounting for 6.9 per cent of the
total employed labour force, relative to 7.3 per cent for 2008.
Average employment for 2009 was 7 575 persons fewer
than for 2008, reflecting declines in both the number of females
and males employed in the industry. The average number of
females employed in the industry was 27 775, representing a
6.4 per cent decline in the average number of females
employed in the industry. The average number of males
employed in the industry was 49 925, a 10.2 per cent decrease
compared with 2008.
Labour productivity levels for the industry was $519 510
per worker, 3.2 per cent higher than in 2008.

TABLE 12.3
STRUCTURE OF APPAREL EXPORTS 2005-2009
US$ MILLION

% Change
MARKET 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2008 2009
2007 2008

USA 47.0 44.5 37.8 19.6 0.008 -48.1 -99.9

Cut, Make & Trim (CMT) 1.4 0.5 0.6 0.2 0.008 -66.7 96.0
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) 45.6 44.0 37.2 19.4 0 -47.8 100.0

Others 11.7 1.4 4.0 2.8 1.1 -30.0 -61.0

All Markets 58.7 45.9 41.8 22.4 1.11 -46.4 95.0

Source: Compiled by data supplied by Trade Board

 12.7

TABLE 12.4
OUTSTANDING LOANS AND ADVANCES TO THE MANUFACTURE INDUSTRY AT COMMERCIAL
BANKS, 2005-2009
$000
% Change
Manufacturing $'000 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2008 2009
2007 2008
Categories
Sugar, Rum & Molasses 340 702 285 618 209 033 528 707 422 804 152.9 -20.0
Food, Drink, & Tobacco 1 892 400 1 869 739 2 026 115 4 238 414 2 562 415 109.2 -39.5
Paper, Printing &Publishing 230 440 268 972 157 561 115 242 132 431 -26.9 14.9
Textile,Leather & Footwear 151 628 188 159 123 615 113 905 152 889 -7.9 34.2
Furniture, Fixtures & Wood 89 809 130 708 259 794 260 740 465 735 0.4 78.6
Products
Metal Products 216 348 271 784 319 223 345 183 355 426 8.1 3.0
Cement & Clay 370 052 869 018 701 321 851 910 1 003 793 21.5 17.8
Chemicals & Chem Prodroducts 135 930 70 450 101 468 337 751 943 525 232.9 179.4
Other 1 250 704 1 910 858 2 361 020 2 510 794 3 350 930 6.3 33.5

Total 4 678 013 5 865 306 6 259 150 9 302 646 9 389 948 48.6 0.9

Source: Compiled by PIOJ from data supplied by BOJ

FINANCING denominated in foreign currency totalled US$20.1 million,

Commercial Banks
At the end of December 2009, the stock of outstanding loans
and advances to Manufacture by commercial banks
stood at $9 389.9 million. This was 0.9 per cent more than at
the end of December 2008 (Table 12.4). The higher loan stock
was attributed to the increased balances outstanding to all
categories except for Sugar, Rum & Molasses and Food, Drink
& Tobacco. The categories with the largest absolute increases in
loan balances were:
– Chemicals & Chemical Products which increased by
$605.8 million;
– Furniture, Fixtures & Wood Products which was $204.9
million greater than at the end of December 2008; and
– Cement & Clay which grew by $151.9 million.
Institutions Licensed under the Financial Institutions
Act (FIA-Licensees)
The stock of loans and advances outstanding at FIA
Licensees was $340.4 million, 6.4 per cent less than at the end of
the previous year. The lower loan stock was consistent with the
contraction in production activity within the industry as
business confidence weakened in response to lower consumer
demand.
Financing to the Industry by Local Development
Financing Institutions
Based on information received from two of the
Development Financing Institutions, total funds disbursed to the
industry increased. The increase in disbursements to the
industry was due in part to various types of financial assistance
extended to producers as they sought to cope with the challenges
associated with the global financial and economic crisis. Total
disbursement by the Development Bank of Jamaica was $827.9
million, compared with $220.8 million in 2008. Funding from
the National Export-Import Bank was $2 234.3 million,
compared with $2 403.2 million in 2008. Disbursements
compared with US$9.9 million in 2008.
Other Financing
Additional financing was made available to producers in
the Manufacture industry through special loan facilities
extended to the productive sector by various financial
institutions. During the review period some financial
institutions extended loan facilities that were in response to the
productive sector’s demand for more affordable and
accessible financing. Among the facilities extended to the
productive sector were:
– a $500.0 million loan window, of which $425.0 mil-
lion was offered to older businesses for the purpose of
expanding and improving production, while $75.0
million was extended to companies less than two years
old;
– special interest rates ranging between 9.00 per cent
and 9.95 per cent.
OUTLOOK
It is anticipated that the real value added for the
Manufacture industry will decline in 2010, albeit at a slower
rate than in 2009. This performance is predicated on falling
demand for locally manufactured goods, particularly in the
first six months of the year, owing to the impact of the global
economic crisis. However, it is expected that as the global
economy continues to emerge from the crisis, global demand
will increase and this is expected to positively affect the
demand for some locally manufactured products.
A Debt Exchange programme was implemented by the
Government of Jamaica as one of the three prior actions for
approval of an International Monetary Fund Stand-By
Agreement. The debt exchange programme, which involved
voluntary exchange of existing domestic bonds for new bonds
of the same principal but lower interest rates, is expected to
result in a lowering of capital costs to the productive sector.n
 13.1 13.1

CHAPTER 13

1
MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES
INTRODUCTION International Development Agency (CIDA), and the
European Union (EU) continued to support the Micro, Small

A ctivities within the Micro and Small Enterprises (MSE)

sector continued to be affected by the global economic and
financial crisis. This was reflected in a real reduction in sales by
MSEs, evidenced by preliminary 2009 General Consumption Tax
and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector through the
provision of financing and technical assistance.

POLICIES & PROGRAMMES

(GCT) returns, as well as in the fall in business and consumer indi-
ces. Additionally, the decline2 in Jamaica’s ranking in the 2010
Doing Business Report (DBR)3 was an indication that MSEs were
operating in a challenging business environment during 2009.
In view of the prevailing business environment and the
importance of the MSE sector in the economy the Ministry of
Industry, Investment and Commerce and other stakeholders,
continued to focus primarily on measures to develop and
strengthen the sector. These included:
— initiatives to facilitate investment and improve the in-
vestment climate; and
— the introduction of new loan products, which offer eas-
ier and improved access, to financing including the in-
crease in loans by wholesale lenders to $1 652.0 million
from the $753.1 million disbursed in 2008.
Given the general economic downturn, the sector benefited
from new entrants, mainly from among workers displaced in other
industries. This displacement resulted in an increase in the
number of Own Account Workers. The 2009 Jamaica Labour
Force Survey indicated that the Own Account Worker4 (sole
traders) category accounted for approximately 36.8 per cent of the
total employed labour force, averaging 415 050 persons. This
represented an increase of 3.5 per cent compared with 2008.
Males accounted for 65.0 per cent or 270 300. However, more
females continued to access loans in comparison to their male
counterparts.
The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC)
continued to be the lead agency driving business facilitation
among MSEs. Its focus in 2009 was to foster new partnerships
between these enterprises and private sector agencies and
institutions.
International Development partners such as the United States
agency for International Development (USAID), the
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Canadian
The Government of Jamaica (GOJ reaffirmed its
commitment to champion the definitive role of MSEs in
Jamaica’s development, as outlined in the Vision 2030
Jamaica – National Development Plan. Support provided by
the GOJ was therefore aimed at:
— ensuring competition consistent with its policy of
fair trade practices and maintaining a balance be-
tween large, es tab lished firms and small
enterprises;
— increasing the sector’s capacity to provide mean-
ingful, productive employment; and
— improving the institutional support provided to
the sector by a range of agencies.
In April 2009 Cabinet approved the establishment of the
Microfinance Apex Facility at the Development Bank of
Jamaica (DBJ). Additionally, the sector benefited from the
GOJ’s December 2008 stimulus package for MSMEs, which
was intended to strengthen their capacity to withstand the
effects of the global financial and economic crisis. Benefits
to the MSEs were as follows:
— the DBJ allocated $250.0 million through the Ja-
maica National Small Business Loans Ltd.;
— the JBDC made $150.0 million available to small
business and micro-enterprises that were unable
to meet the full collateral requirements for con-
ventional loans; and

1 Micro-enterprises in Jamaica are defined as enterprises that carry an asset base (excluding land and building) not exceeding US$10 000.00
and an annual turnover of less than US$125 000.00. Small Enterprises carry an asset base (excluding land and building) of between
US$10 000.00 and US$100 000.00 and an annual turnover of between US$125 000.00 and US$1 000 000.00. Employment levels in either
may vary based on structure and type of activity but for small enterprises the level usually does not exceed 50 persons.
2 Jamaica ranked 75 out of 183 countries surveyed for the DBR compared with the rank of 63 out of 181 countries in the DBR 2009.
3 The DBR, which is published annually by the World Bank uses quantitative indicators and regulations to rank the ease of doing business
around the world.
4 The Own Account Worker category accounts for the vast majority of MSEs. In 2008, this category accounted for 34.5 cent of the total
employed labour force.
 13.2 13.2

— as at January 1, 20095, only businesses with annual
sales of more than $3.0 million were subjected to GCT
requirements. This provision was projected to benefit
approximately 2 800 small business operators.
Young Entrepreneur Programme (YEP) - The YEP is an
initiative by the GOJ for school leavers, at high school and tertiary
levels to develop small businesses and access financing for viable
projects. The programme which was launched in April 2009 has a
total portfolio of $200.0 million, which will be made available by
the Development Bank of Jamaica to the Jamaica National Small
Business Loans Limited; the Credit Union League; Nation
Growth; Access Finance Services Ltd.; and Micro Credit Ltd. for
on-lending. The maximum loan is $100 000.00 per person at an
annual interest rate of 10.0 per cent on the reducing balance.
The Target Growth Competitiveness Committee 6
(TGCC): The TGCC is one of the 12 support components of the
European Union (EU) and Government of Jamaica funded Private
Sector Development Programme (PSDP7). In May 2009, the
TGCC held a Doing Business Report Roundtable with
stakeholders towards ensuring that:
— stakeholders were fully aware of all the initiatives be-
ing undertaken by the government to improve the ease
of doing business in Jamaica; and
“Starting a Business”: The TGCC worked with the
Companies Office of Jamaica to develop a single business
registration form. The form will include the requirements of
all the agencies involved in the registration process; the
Companies Office would therefore serve as a One-Stop
Shop for business registration. The form is expected to be
finalized in early 2010 and should significantly improve the
ease of starting a business. It will also facilitate
establishment of the proposed virtual One-Stop Shop for
Starting a Business.
“Closing a Business”: The TGCC commissioned a legal
expert to undertake an assessment of the requirements for
closing a business in Jamaica relative to international best
practices, and to recommend reforms to simplify this
process.
DEVELOPMENTAL AND BUSINESS SERVICES
Developmental and Business Services continued to be
provided to the sector by the following agencies: the JBDC,
the Scientific Research Council (SRC), the Jamaica
National Small Business Loans Limited, the Bureau of
Standards Jamaica, and the Technology Innovation Centre
(TIC) at the University of Technology, Jamaica.

— there is a better communication between the public The Jamaica Business Development Corporation8
agencies and the users, especially those who participate (JBDC)
in the Report.
Specific initiatives undertaken by the TGCC in relation to the The JBDC assisted 11 750 individuals and entities,
Doing Business Report were: providing general business advice, training, product
development support, and marketing support (Table 13.1).
“Getting Credit”: The Committee took steps to improve There were 2 200 new clients.
Jamaica’s collateral framework through a system of secured
lending transactions, with movable assets, which along with the Marketing Assistance
Credit Bureau, should significantly improve access to financing.
In October 2009, the TGCC in collaboration with the World Bank There are five Things Jamaican9 outlets with over 400
assisted with the development of this programme. This should active suppliers. For the year, JBDC screened 145 products
favourably affect Jamaica’s future performance in the DBR. from clients and 70 clients provided new products. Kumba
Mi Yabba 2009, the producers’ fair where authentic
Jamaican items were displayed and sold, had its 9th annual
TABLE 13.1
JBDC Activities, 2009
Activities Description Number of individuals/entities
Training Over 150 training sessions were conducted islandwide in areas such as re- 5 500
cord-keeping, business plan preparation, costing, money management etc.
Technical Assistance Advice on product development, packaging & labelling, process improvement, 3 300
sourcing new equipment, etc.
Marketing Participation and representation in local and international trade expositions and ac- 750
cess to the marketing outlet provided by Things Jamaican, the JBDC-owned retail
stores.
Consultations/Business Advice General advice on how to start a business, managing and expanding a business and 2 200
referrals to other agencies and financial institutions.
TOTAL 11 750

Source: JBDC

5 Prior to January 1, 2009, all businesses with annual sales above $1.0 million were required to register under the GCT Act and submit
monthly returns.
6 The TGCC was established as an empowerment mechanism for private sector organizations. The TGCC works to accelerate private sector
growth by facilitating collaboration among the private sector, government and trade unions on competitiveness issues.
7 The PSDP, which ended in December 2009, was aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of companies in the micro, small and medium
sized enterprises sector, and providing assistance for institutional strengthening.
8 Formerly the Jamaica Business Development Centre up to November 2008.
9 The Things Jamaican stores provide marketing opportunities for MSME clientele.
 13.3
show. Additionally, the inaugural Montego Bay Kumba Mi Yabba
Fair was held.
Expanding Outreach: Jamaica Business Information
Centres (JAMBICs10)
Four JAMBICs were launched during 2009, bringing the total
to 11 Centres. Services offered included loan and grant application
processing, website design, internet marketing and training, staff
development, an employment job bank, marketing and public
relations services, business consultations and administrative
services. Over 1 800 persons were assisted at JAMBICs during
the year.
Developmental Projects
(a)The Enterprise Rating and Upgrading (ERU)
Programme11
The objective of this programme, which ended on December
31, 2009, was to enhance the competitiveness of Jamaican
MSMEs to world-class standards through preparation and
implementation of an upgrading plan, assessment, benchmarking,
rating, and financial support for upgrading. Assessments were
done and upgrading requirements established for 196 MSMEs;
and 30 workshops to enhance the sector’s competitiveness were
held. Areas covered by the workshops included:
— Business Formalization/Registration and Import and
Export Consultancy;
— Im prov ing Em ployee Ef fec tive ness and the
CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME);
— Expo and Tradeshow Preparation; and
— Website Development and Content Management
(b) Inter-American Development Bank/ Kingston Urban
Renewal Project
This Project is intended to enhance the social and economic
welfare of selected Central Kingston communities. Components
of the project include business training and development,
environmental upgrading, and youth development. Within some
components there is training in Small Business Management,
HEART-certified Skills Training and internship programmes.
(c ) Productive Integration of Micro Enterprises in
Jamaica Project
This IDB funded project was launched in 2007 and is a
three-year programme aimed at increasing the competitiveness of
Micro-Enterprises involved in craft and agro-processing sectors
with a focus on confectioneries and dehydrated product industries.
Achievements of the project during the reporting period include
the following:
— participation of agro-processing groups in Hazard
Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) workshops
with the Bureau of Standards;
— development of product labels for the agro-processing
groups; and
10 JAMBICs constitute a network of Business Information Centres (BICs) established across the island by the JBDC.
11 This is one of the twelve components of the PSDP.
13.3
— development of packaging solutions for the craft
groups.
Training
In 2009, the Incubator & Resource Centre of the
JBDC incubated 12 entities from the fashion and
apparel industry. The Centre held 150 training sessions
with approximately 3 500 participants.
The JBDC signed Memoranda of Understanding for
collaboration with various institutions to provide training in
the MSME sector. Collaborative arrangements included the
University of the West Indies (UWI), Northern Caribbean
University (NCU) and the Association of Certified
Chartered Accountants (ACCA).
In an effort to increase access for MSMEs to technical,
business, marketing and financial services, the Corporation
held a series of seminars and exhibitions islandwide. These
included the private sector financial service providers as
well as agencies such as the Bureau of Standards, Jamaica
Intellectual Property Office, and the Companies Office of
Jamaica.
National Commercial Bank
The National Commercial Bank (NCB), in association
with the HEART Trust/NTA, facilitated a two-day technical
training session for the Micro and Small Business sector in
Accounting Methods and Business Management. The aim
of this training was to address the skills gap among members
of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Technology Innovation Centre (TIC) - University of
Technology, Jamaica (UTech)
The TIC continued its operations as the primary
incubator for business start-up and development by
providing rental space for incubating companies. In total
there are 58 companies inclusive of virtual clients. At the
end of 2009, a total of 33 virtual companies participated in
the centre’s incubation programme. The Centre currently
has 25 companies and special projects occupying suites
through shared or dedicated office space.
Four residential clients were admitted in the areas of
software development; electronic magazine publication &
information technology; and training and consulting. The
TIC expanded its support base to the entrepreneurial
community by reorganizing the virtual tenancy programme
to include the rental of desk space for entrepreneurs needing
a fixed space without high overhead costs.
Additionally, the TIC conducted study tours for
colleagues in smaller Caribbean nations, which have been
developing their own business incubators. TIC was also
involved in the formation of the regional incubation
association, Caribbean Business Incubation Association.
 13.4 13.4

The Enterprise-wide Risk Management & Financing
Programme12 (ERMFP)
The programme, which is funded by the IDB and the GOJ,
consists of four components:
— building awareness of enterprise risk management
practices among MSMEs,
— providing developmental support services to targeted
MSMEs,
— en hancing access to loan financing for targeted
MSMEs; and
— capacity building of targeted Business Associations.
The pilot phase of the project ended in October 2009 and
outcomes included:
Jamaica and the CARICOM Regional Organisation for
Standards and Quality (CROSQ)/IDB) Project. The objective
of these projects was to improve the competitiveness of
SMEs in regional and international markets.
The Quality, Environmental and Food Safety
Systems Project14 Jamaica commenced in January 2002
and ended in August 2009. It focused on international
competitiveness and had four components:
— increasing awareness among SMEs about the im-
portance of ISO 900015 (quality) and ISO 14000
(environmental) management standards, and
HACCP Food Safety Systems;
— developing a local cadre of qualified consultants,
au ditors and trainers to implement these
systems;

— development of a new MSME Business & Credit rating — facilitating the implementation of these systems
system; in approximately 100 SMEs; and

— use of the MSME credit rating by a regional risk rating
agency to assess 20 MSMEs and;
— consideration of special financing arrangements for
risk rated applicants by financial institutions.
In support of the ERMFP, Scotiabank established a $100.0
million Scotia MSME alliance fund as part of a larger Scotiabank
SME development programme. Firms can borrow between $1.0
million and $5.0 million.
Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ)
The BSJ continued its assistance to SMEs in implementing
quality and environmental management systems through the
Quality, Environmental and Food Safety Systems Project13
Table 13.2
NUMBER OF MSEs ACCORDING TO GCT RETURNS, 2007- 2009
— building capacity in the BSJ to enhance its ability
to attain international recognition as the National
Certification Body of Jamaica
The CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards
and Quality (CROSQ)/IDB) Project, continued its aim to
improve the competitiveness of SMEs within the CARICOM
region. The BSJ and the Standards Bureaux of Trinidad and
Tobago, Guyana and Barbados are regional sub-executing
agencies, with the CARICOM Secretariat as the main executing
agency.
The BSJ launched the Furniture and Wooden
Products Incubator Project in 2009. The aim of the
project is to improve the infrastructure of the local furniture
industry through the provision of technical support to new

2007r 2008 r 2009

INDUSTRIES Micro Small Micro Small Micro Small
Agriculture 135 48 127 56 119 48
Mining 45 14 43 16 42 10
Manufacturing 752 402 738 397 709 351
Energy & Water 10 2 10 2 9 5
Construction 488 142 547 139 507 108
Wholesale & Retail Trade 4 076 2 042 4 130 2 040 3 911 1 828
Miscellaneous 644 165 657 169 570 132
Transport & Communications 802 214 838 198 743 167
Financial Services 208 78 218 68 201 79
Rent, State & Professional 2 379 539 2 470 547 2 352 481
Government Services 1 217 288 1 266 292 1 162 247
TOTAL 10 756 3 934 11 044 3 924 10 325 3 456

r- revised
Source: Compiled by the PIOJ from data received from the Taxpayer Audit Assessment Department

12 The ERMFP was established in 2008 with the objective of contributing to the survival and growth of targeted MSMEs by enhancing their
ability to successfully manage businesses, and increasing access to credit.
13 The project was jointly funded by the IDB through its technical cooperation facility, the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) and the
Government of Jamaica/BSJ.
14 The project was jointly funded by the IDB through its technical cooperation facility, the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) and the
Government of Jamaica/BSJ.
15 ISO 9000 is a quality management standard system.
 13.5 13.5

TABLE 13.3
DISBURSEMENTS BY WHOLESALE AGENCIES, 2005 - 2009
$Million

% Change

2008 2009
AGENCIES 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2007 2008

DOL 94.4 190.9 157.5 213.7 186.0 35.7 -13.0

Pan Caribbean 209.3 78.5 89.9 51.2 105.2 -43.0 105.4
MIDA 211.0 222.5 242.1 164.5 151.6 -32.1 -7.8
NIF n/a n/a n/a 323.7 228.5 n/a -29.4
DBJ n/a n/a n/a n/a 980.7 n/a n/a
TOTAL 514.7 491.9 489.5 753.1 1 652.0 119.4 -10.8

n/a - not available

Source: Compiled by the PIOJ from Respective Funding Programmes

and existing micro and small furniture and wooden products
manufacturers.
PERFORMANCE
General Consumption Tax (GCT) returns16 were used to
estimate sales by MSEs. Returns indicated that sales by MSEs
stood at $99.1 billion or 9.3 per cent of total sales of all the firms
that filed returns, compared with $195.5 billion or 16.4 per cent of
total sales recorded in 2008 (Table 13.2).
This performance was driven by the reduction in the sales of
small firms, which declined by 46.2 per cent to $81.8 billion
(accounting for 82.5 per cent of total sales) and was due to the
general downturn in the economy and the decline in business
confidence.
For 2009, approximately 13 781 micro and small firms,
involved in various types of business activities, filed GCT returns
compared with 14 968 firms in 2008 (see Table 13.2). The total
number of MSEs that filed GCT returns in 2009 accounted for
90.9 per cent of all firms that made GCT returns. Approximately
41.6 per cent or 5 739 were involved in Wholesale & Retail Trade
during 2009, representing the highest number of filings. Of the
total MSEs that filed in the previous year, 6 170 firms or 41.2
per cent filed GCT returns in Wholesale & Retail Trade
activities.
GCT returns for micro firms within the Wholesale &
Retail Trade industry declined by 5.3 per cent to 3 911 and
were lower than the three year average of 4 039 for the three
years 2006 - 2008. Small firms declined by 10.2 per cent to
1 828; which was also lower than the three year average
of 1 970.
FINANCING
Wholesale Financing
The Micro Investment Development Agency (MIDA),
National Development Bank of Jamaica 1 7 (DBJ),
Development Options Limited (DOL) and Pan Caribbean
Financial Services (PCFS) provided wholesale financing to
MSEs. Loans disbursed from the wholesale lending
agencies and non-traditional government credit totalled
$1 652.0 million compared with $753.1 million in 2008
(Table 13.3). The increased disbursement reflected the
entrance of the DBJ as an MFI funding agency in 2009.

TABLE 13.4
MicroFin DISBURSEMENTS, 2009

Number of Loans
Females Males Total Total ($) % of total Average Loan
Size ($)
First Union Financial Co. 133 50 183 14 650 000 7.8 80 055
Access Financial Services 1 931 590 2 521 115 292 500 62.0 45 733
NDFJ n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
COPE Ltd. 433 147 580 36 099 000 19.4 62 239
MIDA 102 41 143 20 000 000 10.8 139 860
Total 2 599 828 3 427 186 041 500 100.0 54 286

n/a - not available

Source: Development Options Ltd

16 Most MSE sector activities are captured in retailing and wholesaling operations.
17 The DBJ was approved as a Micro Financing Institution (MFI) during 2009.
 13.6
Development Options Limited18 (GOJ/MicroFin Fund)
Total disbursement by the GOJ/MicroFin Fund to the MSE
sector stood at $186.0 million, a decrease of 13.0 per cent (see
Table 13.3). A total of 3 427 loans were disbursed to four entities,
compared with 3 775 loans disbursed to five entities during 2008.
Of the total amount disbursed, Access Financial Services retained
its position as the major retailer, taking 62.0 per cent or $115.2
million of loanable funds (Table 13.4). Loans disbursed were for
expansion of existing businesses involved in Agriculture,
Manufacture, Services, and Wholesale & Retail Trade.
Pan Caribbean Financial Services Limited19 (PCFSL)
During 2009, disbursements by the PCFSL to Participating
Credit Institutions (PCIs) totalled $105.2 million compared with
$51.2 million during 2008. This has been attributed to an increase
in loan limits to the PCIs. A total of 12 loans were disbursed to
businesses engaged in financial services compared with eight
during the previous year. These loans were for refinancing
purposes.
Development Bank of Jamaica
Total disbursements to the MSMEs amounted to $980.7
million with 4 429 loans. These loan funds were used to expand
and start up businesses involved in Agriculture, Tourism,
Agro-processing, Mining, Manufacture, and Services. Of total
loans, 23, totalling $356.8 million, were disbursed for the
Manufacture industry, followed by Services for which 33 loans
amounting to $356.7 million were disbursed.
Micro Investment Development Agency (MIDA)
During the year, the MIDA portfolio comprised $151.6 million
for the micro enterprise sector compared with $164.5 million in
2008. Total disbursement consisted of:
— $4.3 mil lion - So cial and Eco nomic
Programme (SESP);
Other
16%
Clarendon
11%
St. James
20%
FIGURE 13A: LOAN DISTRIBUTION BY PARISH
18 Development Options Limited managed the Government of Jamaica/Micro Finance Fund (GOJ/MicroFin) as a wholesale agent for the
GOJ/Government of the Netherlands micro enterprise loan programme.
19 The PCFSL, a Government appointed wholesale lending agent, provides loans to Participating Credit Institutions (PCIs) for on-lending.
13.6
— $25.9 million - Development Options Limited;
— $21.0 million- European Union Funds; and
— $100.3 million - MIDA’s internal cash flow.
MIDA continued to disburse funds through its network
of rural retailers known as Community Development Funds.
In all, 875 micro businesses were financed during the year
compared with 1 045 a year earlier. The enterprises
receiving funds provided full-time and part-time
employment for 1 376 persons.
Of total loan disbursements by MIDA, 18.5 per cent
($28.1 million) was disbursed to micro business operators in
St. James; followed by Kingston & St Andrew ($24.6
million); and St. Catherine ($21.6 million) (Figure 13A).
Approximately 87.0 per cent ($131.9 million) was
disbursed to entities in the Service Industry. This was used
to fund businesses including bars, clothing stores, and
transportation and restaurant services. Persons in
Agriculture received $12.3 million in loans for projects that
typically involved chicken and pig rearing, fishing, and crop
cultivation. The remaining $7.4 million was disbursed to
interests in Manufacture, namely: furniture production,
baking, tailoring, dress making, concrete products, and
block making. Of the total loans granted, female-headed
enterprises accessed $98.6 million or 65.9 per cent. Persons
between the ages of 18 and 35 received 33.3 per cent of loans
disbursed, while applicants over the age of 36 received the
remaining 67.0 per cent. Collections on loans totalled
$176.9 million for 2009, reflecting a decline of 16.9 per cent
compared with 2008.
Select Retail Lending Agencies
Jamaica National Small Business Loan Limited
(JNSBL)
Sup port
The JNSBL facility continued to be a major provider of
loans and business development services to MSEs. A total
Kingston & St.
Andrew
17%
St. Catherine
15%
Portland
11%
St. Ann
10%
 13.7 13.7

TABLE 13.5 Of the total disbursements by JNSBL ($2 010.2 million),

JNSBL LOAN DISBURSEMENT the Distribution industry accounted for majority of the
disbursements with 64.1 per cent or $1 289.1 million.
Total Number of Loans Disbursed The JNSBL loan portfolio comprised Agriculture (3 768
2008r 2009 loans), Wholesale & Retail Trade (26 253 loans),
Manufacture (2 406 loans), Services (4 392 loans),
Bizgrow 33 241 35 337 Transportation (1 150 loans) and Other (1 429 loans) (Figure
Bizstart 4 652 4 029 13B).
Bizboost (NIF) 19 3
Bizboost (DBJ) 70 29 The interest rate offered for small and medium loans
Total 37 982 39 398 ($300 000.00 - $3.0 million) was 10.0 per cent per annum.
Micro loans ranging from $5 000.00 to $300 000.00
Value of Loans Disbursed, $ million attracted an interest rate of 1.0 per cent per week.

2008 2009 BizStart22: The value of disbursements under this

facility was $165.5 million compared with $168.1 million in
Bizgrow 1 566.4 1 790.7 2008. The loan portfolio at December 2009 under this
Bizstart 168.1 165.5 programme was $59.5 million.
Bizboost (NIF) 31.2 4.4
n/a 49.5
BizGrow: Disbursements through this facility
Bizboost (DBJ)
1 769.1 2 012.2
totalled $1 790.7 million 23 compared with $1 566.4
Total million in 2008. The loan portfolio for this facility stood at
n/a - not available
$527.9 million at December 2009. The range for first loans
r - revised
was $5 000.00 to $120 000.0024. Repeat loans are granted in
Source: JNSBL
increasing amounts based on the repayment record of the
client and the payment capacity of the business, with the
maximum loan available being $360 000.00. The loan
of 39 398 loans valued at $2 010.2 million were disbursed by this period ranges between 10 and 50 weeks.
entity, reflecting increases of 3.7 per cent in the number and 13.6 BizBoost25: the National Insurance Fund (NIF) and the
per cent in the value of loans. Disbursements were made through a DBJ Loan programmes fall under this facility. Total value of
number of products, including BizStart20 , BizGrow 21 and disbursements financed by the NIF was $4.4 million
BizBoost (Table 13.5). compared with $31.2 million in 2008. At December 2009
the loan portfolio was $27.5 million. Total value of

Other
4% Agriculture
8%

Services
15%

Manufacture
6%

Distribution
Transportation
64%
3%

FIGURE 13B: DISBURSEMENTS BY TYPE OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

20 BizStart loans are loans provided for start up of micro enterprises.

21 These loans are for the expansion of micro businesses.
22 Target clientele for this programme includes start-up microenterprises in all industries for purchasing machinery and equipment and for
working capital.
23 Total disbursements through this facility accounted for 89.1 per cent of all JNBSL MSE loan disbursements.
24 The amounts loaned have increased during the year.
25 These loans are extended to persons in the Manufacture, Services, Mining and Transportation industries. The loans ranged between
$300 000.00 and $3.0 million for up to a maximum of four years at 10.0 per cent interest on the reducing balance.
 13.8 13.8

disbursements funded by the DBJ under the BizBoost was $49.5
million and ranged between $300 000.00 and $3.0 million. The
loan portfolio under this facility was $446.8 million.
The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Development
Loan Programme was established in conjunction with the
Ministry of Tourism in 2008 and has been available to assist small
hotels, attractions, villas and apartment owners to expand and
develop their properties. The maximum loan available is $3.0
million at an interest rate of 3.0 per cent per annum for five years.
Disbursements for 2009 totalled $105.0 million to 35 entities,
compared with $50.7 million to 19 entities during 2008.
During 2009, the programme was extended to include the
transportation sub-industry. The maximum loan available to this
sub-industry is $1.0 million at an interest rate of 3.0 per cent per
annum for three years. Disbursements amounting to $15.0
million were made to 15 transport operators.
Micro Enterprise Financing Limited (MEFL)
26
The MEFL continued to administer micro financing
services, and for 2009, particular emphasis was placed on business
development training for groups and individuals who accessed
loans. Total disbursements for January-September 2009
amounted to $207.4 million compared with $224.4 million
disbursed during January-September 200827. The value of the
loans repaid stood at $208.6 million compared with $193.4
million in 2008. The number of loans disbursed totalled 3 682
compared with a total of 3 558 in the 2008. Females accounted for
73.9 per cent (2 721 loans). Sole traders comprised 64.0 per cent
of the MEFL clientele.
A strategic alliance with the Inter-American
Development Bank to establish low cost satellite locations in
order to expand services into rural Jamaica and promotion of
solidarity group lending were two of the principal activities
undertaken by the MEFL in 2009. The aim of solidarity
group lending is to assist clients who have unregistered
business, no form of business records, and no one to co-sign
as guarantor, to borrow together and work together.
National Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank)
During 2009, the EXIM Bank continued to provide
financing to SMEs through special loan programmes. The
total value of loans disbursed by the Bank to the MSE sector
was $518.5 million compared with $361.9 million in 2008.
Major loan programmes included the EXIM Small Business
Loans Programme, the General Trade Line and EXIM
JEA/JMA Loan Programme28.
EXIM Small Business Loans Programme
For 2009, loan disbursement through this programme
valued $421.20 million, accounting for 81.0 per cent of total
loans ($518.5 million) disbursed to SMEs. In 2008, a total
of $201.9 million was disbursed under this programme,
representing 56.0 per cent of the total loans of $361.0
million disbursed to SMEs.
General Trade Line29
A total of $41.9 million was disbursed to SMEs in the
Service and Distribution industries compared with $59.7
million in 2008. This is a working capital facility and may

TABLE 13.6
LOANS DISBURSEMENT & EMPLOYMENT CREATION

INSTITUTION LOANS DISBURSED VALUE ($ MILLION) EMPLOYMENT CREATED

2008r 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009

NDFJ 191 n/a 27.4 n/a 410 n/a

MIDA 1 045 875 164.5 151.6 1 633 1 376
COPE 855 750 50.3 44.7 1 285 n/a
Jamaica National Small Business Loans 37 982 39 398 1 769.1 2 010.2 21 932 26 719
GoJ/MicroFin (DOL) 3 775 3 427 213.7 186.0 3 775 3 427
Pan Caribbean 8 12 51.2 105.1 n/a n/a
EX-IM Bank n/a n/a 361.9 518.5 1 217 n/a
First Union Financial 436 200 34.3 35.4 3 n/a
Jamaica Credit Union league 10 967 n/a 825.9 n/a 19.5 n/a
Access 3 765 5 306 164.1 297.7 n/a n/a
JBDC n/a 93 n/a 141.0 n/a 483

n/a - not available

Source: Compiled by PIOJ

26 The MEFL disburses loans for working capital support only and not for start-up purposes
27 Latest available data.
28 This is an EX-IM Bank, Jamaica Exporters’ Association and Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association joint venture loan programme that
operates on a revolving basis and provides working capital support for small exporters and manufacturers.
29 The general trade line facility is primarily to assist the distributive and services sectors, i.e. loans that do not fit the normal profile of EXIM
Bank loans which are geared towards Manufacturing and Agro-Processing. An interest rate of 16.0 per cent is charged on loans under this
facility while 12.0 per cent is charged under the SME loan programme.
 13.9
be used to purchase non-capital goods, such as for stock
replenishing.
National Insurance Fund (NIF) Loan Programme30
During 2009, $228.5 million was disbursed compared with
$323.7 million in 2008. Loans disbursed under this facility were
accessed by SMEs involved in Agriculture (30.6 per cent),
Services (36.5 per cent) and Manufacture (32.9 per cent). This
programme was funded though a commitment of $1.0 billion from
the National Insurance Fund for lending solely to SMEs. Interest
rates ranged between 8.0 per cent and 10.0 per cent per annum on
the reducing balance.
Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC)
Effective January 2009, the JBDC through its Financial
Support Services Unit commenced providing business
development loans to eligible MSEs. Approximately $141.0
million was disbursed, benefiting 93 clients and creating 483 jobs.
National Commercial Bank Small & Medium Enterprises
(NCB SME) Financial Services
In response to the challenges the MSEs face in accessing
credit, the NCB SME Financial Services continued to provide
links to professional and technical assistance for various areas of
business such as business planning, staff training and
development and capital expansion. The SME loan portfolio
balance as at December 2009 was $9.0 billion.
During the year the activities undertaken included:
— the launch of the second tranche of the SME Develop-
ment Access Credit Facility. This facility is to improve
access to funding for SMEs in underserved sectors,
particularly those having challenges in providing
collateral; and
— the launch of the Nation Builder Credit line. This credit
line offers financing for capital expansion and working
capital support at an interest rate of 9.0 per cent for
SMEs.
First Union Financial Company Limited (FUFC)
Total loans disbursed by the FUFC to the MSE sector stood at
200 compared with the 436 disbursed in 2008. The value of loans
disbursed increased, totalling $35.4 million compared with $34.3
million in 2008. Total number of refinanced loans to date was 70
with a value of $3.8 million. Categories which accounted for
significant shares of total disbursements included Informal
Commercial Importers & Retail Traders; and Barbers &
Hairdressers. (Table 13.6)
COPE Foundation Ltd
Financing activities at COPE decreased during the year
relative to 2008, with total disbursements of $44.6 million to 750
clients compared with $50.3 million to 855 individuals in 2008.
The reduction in loans was associated with the overall
macroeconomic conditions. Female borrowers continued to
30 This programme was funded though a commitment of $1.0 billion from the National Insurance Fund for lending solely to SMEs. Interest
rates ranged between 8.0 and 10.0 per cent per annum on the reducing balance.
13.9
dominate the clientele, accounting for 71.0 per cent of the
loans disbursed. The majority of loans was disbursed to sole
traders who operated businesses in the retail/services
industry.
Access Financial Services
Total loans disbursed to the MSMEs by Access Financial
Services stood at $297.7 million compared with $164.1
million during 2008. A total of 5 306 loans were disbursed to
4 000 females and 1 306 males, compared with 3 765 loans
disbursed to 2 922 females and 843 males in 2008. Most of
the loans were for Trading ($165.3 million) and were
disbursed to 3 182 persons. For Services it was $944 million,
to 1 466 persons; $27.2 million went to 455 persons in
Agriculture; and in Manufacture 203 persons received loans
amounting to $14.7 million.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
Micro and Small businesses were able to access the
$500.0 million loan facility with an interest rate of 9.95 per
cent, which Scotiabank opened up for the productive sector.
This was in recognition of the importance of the Micro and
Small business sector to the economy, given its role in
self-employment and job creation and its effort to alleviate
the problem of access to affordable capital for this sector.
Approximately $425.0 million will be dedicated to older
businesses to expand and improve production, while the
other $75.0 million is for businesses less than two years old.
The Jamaica Junior Stock Exchange commenced
operations on April 1, 2009. This provides an opportunity
for SMEs to raise capital on the equities market through
public offerings. On October 30, 2009, Access Financial
was listed on the Jamaica Stock Exchange.
OUTLOOK
The effects of the global economic and financial crisis
are expected to continue to negatively impact the domestic
economy. This outcome will result in further business
contractions and consequently an increase in the number of
job losses. It is anticipated that individuals in search of
alternate sources of income will gravitate towards MSEs,
particularly retail services. This should increase the demand
for funding for the sector. Already, two commercial banks
have products specifically to provide affordable capital to
the SMEs.
Effective February 2010, the JBDC will assume full
responsibility for all micro and small business activity.
Operations of the Micro Investment Development Agency
(MIDA) and all small business activity previously managed
by Jamaica Trade & Invest will be incorporated into the
JBDC. These arrangements are among measures by the
Government to streamline the sector.
Many organizations have initiated training and
counselling for staff members on how to start their own
businesses as the prospects for persons moving to
self-employment in the SME sector increase. Difficulties
with accessing credit should be reduced with the expected
 13.10
lowering of interest rates and as borrowers become better prepared
through special training programmes linked to financing. A
special training programme has also been developed by the
HEART Trust/National Training Agency to retrain workers, who
are laid off, and to guide them towards alternative employment or
to start their own small businesses.
13.10
The recent passage of the Credit Reporting Act, which
allows for the licensing of credit bureaux is expected to help
in addressing the underdeveloped credit culture in
Jamaica.¢
 14.1 14.1

CHAPTER 14

CONSTRUCTION11
INTRODUCTION POLICY AND PROGRAMMES

R eal value added for the Construction industry declined by

an estimated 4.6 per cent (Figure 14A). The performance
of the industry continued to be impacted by the global economic
and financial crisis. This led to the industry’s overall contribution
to GDP moving to 8 per cent compared with 8.2 per cent in 2008.
Lower levels of activities were recorded for the Building Con-
struction and Other Building Construction components. The
downturn in the Building Construction category reflected the re-
duction in residential construction as well as other private and
public projects. The decline in Other Building Construction re-
sulted from a fall in Civil Engineering2 activities associated with
construction work at air and sea ports.
Cement production for the calendar year grew by 1.7 per cent
to 736 919 tonnes. A total of 147 225 tonnes of cement were
imported compared with 209 125 tonnes in 2008. Cement exports
totalled 88 205 tonnes compared with 28 142 tonnes exported in
2008. The 12.1 per cent decrease in supplies to 795 939 tonnes
reflected the lower demand associated with a reduction in
construction activities.
Development of a Construction Industry Policy (CIP)
The Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) continued
work on the formulation of the CIP. The policy seeks to
address issues that would strengthen the industry’s capacity
to achieve its maximum potential. The objectives of the
policy include:
— safety and security issues including extortion;
— quality and environmental factors;
— the registration of professionals and enterprises;
— the refinement of procurement rules; and
— the development of skill levels within the con-
struction industry, with special emphasis on train-
ing and certification.
Activities associated with amendments to the draft
policy include the alignment between the CIP and the Vision
2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan; and
amendments to reflect the concerns of the current
government. The final document will be reviewed by the
Infrastructure Committee of Parliament for discussions in
the form of a White Paper.

10 Hurricane Dean
8 Tropical Storm
Gustav
6
4
PER CENT

2
0
-2
-4 Cement Crisis

-6
-8 Global Economic Crisis
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 14A: REAL VALUE ADDED GROWTH RATES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

1 Building Construction (82.0 per cent) and Other Building Construction (13.0 per cent) combined account for 95.0 per cent of Total
Construction. Building Installation (inclusive of repairs) accounts for the remaining 5.0 per cent.
2 Civil Engineering accounts for the majority of activity in the Other Building Construction category.
 14.2 14.2

TABLE 14.1
NATIONAL HOUSING TRUST LOAN PROGRAMMES

Types of Loan Programmes Value Type of Applicant

Open Market Loan Single Applicant $3.5 million Co-Applicant $7.0 million Non-Homeowners’ Loan
NHT Scheme House Loan Single Applicant $3.5 million Co-Applicant $7.0 million Non-Homeowners’ Loan
Solar Water Heater Loan $250 000 Any NHT Contributor
Solar Panel Loan Single Applicant $1.2 million Co-Applicant $2.4 million Homeowners’ Loan
HOPE Loan Single Applicant $1.0 million Co-Applicant $2.0 million Non-Homeowners’ Loan

Source: National Housing Trust

Development of a National Housing Policy
The Revised 1st Draft of the National Housing Policy was
submitted to the Ministry of Water and Housing on July 21, 2009.
Additionally, Public and Technical Consultation Sessions were
held in Montego Bay and Kingston in September 2009.
Some of the proposed areas that the policy will address
include: improvements to the legislative framework for housing;
increased joint venture partnerships; squatter regularization;
providing security of tenure through divestment and titling
programmes; increased collaboration between housing and
approval agencies; and the reactivation of the secondary mortgage
market.
National Building Code
In an effort to ensure consistency with international standards,
the island’s decades-old building code was replaced with a new
National Building Code in October 2009. The new building code,
which had been in development since 2003, comprises 11
application documents which will be aligned with international
codes to suit Jamaican conditions (see chapter on
Sustainable Development). The New National Building
Code incorporates residential, plumbing, energy
conservation, private sewage disposal, property
maintenance codes, as well as existing building and
international building codes. In order to facilitate successful
implementation of the building codes, the University of
Te c h n o l o g y a n d H E A RT Tr u s t / N TA t h r o u g h a
memorandum of understanding with the Bureau of
Standards Jamaica and the Jamaica Institute of Engineers
will provide a range of training opportunities for persons in
the industry.
Secondary Mortgage Market Initiative
Jamaica Mortgage Bank (JMB) is in the process of
reviving the Secondary Mortgage Market3 (SMM) which
the company exited in 1985 when the entire mortgage
portfolio was sold to Caribbean Housing Finance
Corporation Limited (now Housing Agency of Jamaica
Limited). The JMB does not intend to retain mortgages

Home Owners’
Loan
10%

Build-on-Own-
Land
30% Construction
Loans
60%

FIGURE 14B: NHT LOAN ACTIVITY TYPE

3 The secondary mortgage market describes the trade in mortgages loans that have been issued to borrowers (mortgagors). This market is an
extension of, and depends heavily on the existence of a primary mortgage market.
 14.3 14.3

TABLE 14.2
MAJOR PERFORMANCE INDICATORS OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, 2005 - 2009
% Change
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2008 2009
2007 2008

Number of Housing Starts by NHT 2 338 2 233 1 417 2 368 1 711 67.1 -27.7
Total Housing Starts 4 121 2 875 2 591 3 973 2 130 53.3 -46.4
Number of Housing Completions by NHT 2 246 2 805 1 509 2 368 2 652 56.9 12.0
Total Housing Completions 4 186 3 600 2 682 5 273 3 454 96.6 -34.5
Number of Electrical Inspections 24 764 28 834 27 956 29 681 32 310 6.2 8.9
Total Number of Mortgages 9 873 10 556 12 469 10 465 6 566 -16.1 -37.3
Total Value of Mortgages ($m) 14 525.1 25 563.9 31 595 33 083.5 20 314.7 4.7 -38.6
Number of Mortages by NHT 5 812 5 632 7 207 5 546 4 529 -23.0 -18.3
Value of Mortgages by NHT ($m) 4 147.3 10 967 11 864.7 10 417.3 9 404.3 -12.2 -9.7

Commercial Bank Loans & Advances ($m) 5 512.3 8 045.5 8 977.4 12 902.1 19 915.7 43.7 54.4
Cement Production ('000 Tonnes) 844.8 760.8 774.1 724.5 736.9 -6.4 1.7
Cement Imports ('000 Tonnes) 9.4 295.7 75.8 209.1 147.2 175.9 -29.6
Silica Sand Production ('000 tonnes) 14.3 9.6 14.5 14.8 6.8 2.1 -54.1
Limestone Production ('000 tonnes) 2 610 2 801 2,950.0 2,527.5 1 913.8 -14.3 -24.3
Sand and Gravel Production ('000 tonnes) 2 436 2 760 3 611 2 985 2 600 -17.3 -12.9
Marl & Fill Production ('000 tonnes) 5 301 3 001 3 228 2 740 2 055 -15.1 -25.0
Paint Production ('000 ltrs) 12 073 11 598 12 061 11 356 10 767 -5.8 -5.2
Employment (annual average '000 persons) 103.3 110.0 117.9 109.0 96.0 -7.6 -11.9
GDP Growth Rates (per cent) 7.5 -1.9 4.6 -6.7 4.6 n/a n/a
Contribution to GDP (per cent) 8.8 8.4 8.7 8.2 8.0 n/a n/a

n/a - not available or not reported

Source: Compiled by the Planning Institute of Jamaica.

purchased but will repackage these as mortgage-linked securities Employment

that will be made available to long-term investors.
In November 2009, the Board of Directors of the JMB gave its
approval for the Bank to proceed with its SMM programme. The
Bank engaged two credit unions that have shown interest in the
SMM programme. Both credit unions are currently examining the
documents to be used in the arrangements with a view to providing
feedback. These documents are primarily a:
— standardized mortgage deed that will be used by the
lending institutions in making mortgage loans; and
— purchase and administration agreement outlining the
ongoing relationship between the bank and the loan
originator.
The National Housing Trust (NHT)
The NHT continued a range of loan programmes as shown in
Figure 14B.
For 2009, interest rates for NHT mortgage rates for top end
borrowers range from 5.0 per cent to 6.0 per cent and from 6.0 per
cent to 8.0 per cent. Rates for mortgagors at the lower end were
between 2.0 per cent and 4.0 per cent.
Average employment in the Construction industry fell by
11.9 per cent to 96 000 persons in 2009. The industry’s share
of total employment fell by 0.8 percentage point to 8.5 per
cent of total employed persons. Employment figures for
males stood at 91 550, a decline of 11.8 per cent, while
employed females totalled 4 450 persons, a downturn of 13.6
per cent. Males and females employed in the Construction
industry accounted for 14.3 per cent and 0.9 per cent of total
employed males and females, respectively.
PERFORMANCE
Construction Inputs
For 2009, lower output levels were recorded for most
inputs used in the industry including:
— Silica Sand, used in the production of thin set, fell
by 54.1 per cent to 6.8 thousand tonnes;
— Limestone4 at 1.9 million tonnes declined by 24.3
per cent;
— Sand & Gravel output at 2.6 million tonnes con-
tracted by 12.9 per cent;

4 Limestone is also widely used in the production process of alumina.

 14.4 14.4

— Marl & Fill output at 3.2 million tonnes declined by 25.0 scheduled and at the end of the year it was 98.0 per
per cent; and cent complete. The project commenced in January
2007 at a contract sum of US$2.5 million.
— Paint fell by 5.2 per cent to 10 767 thousand litres.
— Port Maria Civic Centre II9 (St. Mary) – approxi-
Inputs that recorded increased output levels were Cement (0.3 mately $228.5 million was disbursed in 2009.
per cent) and Pozzolan (6.6 per cent). Work was approximately 95.0 per cent complete
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION as at December 2009 with external works to be
completed by March 2010.
Housing Starts5: Total Housing Starts amounted to 2 130
solutions compared with 3 973 starts recorded in 2008. Housing — Emancipation Square10 (St. Catherine) – this
Starts by the National Housing Trust (NHT) totalled 1 711 $19.8 million project was started in November
solutions6 relative to the 2 368 solutions started in 2008 (Table 2009 with total expenditure for the year amount-
14.2). Construction loan activities of the NHT for the year are ing to $3.7 million. Completion is scheduled for
disaggregated as follows: May 2010.
Private Developers started 315 solutions compared with 1 005 — Other UDC projects for 2009 included the con-
solutions started in 2008. The Housing Agency of Jamaica struction of the Hellshire Glades Housing Phase
(HAJ) started 104 new solutions. There was no activity in 2008. II; Green Grotto Caves - Contract 2; Reach Falls
(Phase II); and the renovation of the St. William
Housing Completions7: The total number of Housing Grant Park.
Completions was 3 454 solutions, down 34.5 per cent relative to
the 5 273 completions recorded in 2008. This reflected declines of — Investments in the island’s hotel construction in-
284 and 1 179 in the number of completions by the NHT and dustry continued in 2009, with work on a number
Private Sector Developers, respectively. The Housing Agency of projects under construction and renovation.
Jamaica (HAJ) did not complete any solutions during 2009. Work was completed during the year on the 1 309
room Palmyra Resort & Spa, while construction
NON-RESIDENTIAL ACTIVITIES continued on the:

Capital expenditure on construction and building installation
activities recorded and increases for six and declines for three
entities of the selected entities (Table 14.4).
The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) continued
construction and installation work on a number of projects, which
included:
— Montego Bay Convention Centre (St. James)8 - the Cen-
tre is situated on 9.3 hectares of land adjacent to the Rose
Hall Great House, St. James. Upon completion, the cen-
tre will provide convention facilities, inclusive of meet-
ing rooms, banquet halls and exhibition space. As at De-
cember 2009, construction work was 40.0 per cent com-
plete. Total Expenditure for the year amounted to
approximately $801.2 million.
— Montego Bay Sports Complex (St. James) - a total of
$516.9 million were disbursed during the year. The
completion date of this project has been rescheduled to
March 31, 2010, from April 2009. Upon completion,
this complex will provide spectator seating for 15 000,
an all weather running track, multi-use courts to accom-
modate basketball, netball and tennis, among other
facilities.
— Urban Transportation Centre (Downtown Kingston) –
total expenditure for this project stood at $217.8 million
for 2009. Due to design changes, completion was re-
– Secrets Resort (St. James) with a 700 room
complement; and
– Gran Bahia Principe (St. Ann) with a 600 room
complement
— Renovations were completed on the Goldeneye
Resorts (St. Mary).
HIGHLIGHTS OF OTHER MAJOR CONSTRUC-
TION ACTIVITIES IN 2009
Airport Capital Development Programme
The Capital Development Programme at Norman
Manley International Airport continued during the year.
Construction work on Phase 1A (although substantially
completed in 2008 October) will continue to 2010/11. The
remaining work to be completed under this phase include the
renovation of the previous departure lounge and concession
space into 800 square meters intransit lounge as well as
immigration, security and airport administration offices.
With the passing of appropriate legislation, the remaining
concession space in the previous lounge will be developed to
include incoming duty free facilities, a tour bus connection
area and an arrivals forecourt with appropriate lights,
canopies and seats.

5 Housing Starts refer to the commencement of infrastructure/foundation work on a housing solution.

6 A housing solution refers to a service lot or a housing unit. A service lot is a plot of land allocated for a housing unit and a unit refers to the
physical construction of a dwelling.
7 Housing completions refer to the completion of basic infrastructure, such as, water, light and drainage on a housing solution.
8 The project is funded by a loan from the Export-Import Bank of China under an agreement signed in 2007. Construction of the facility
commenced in February 2009 and is expected to be completed in August 2010.
9 Phase II of the project includes the construction of a mayor’s office, council chambers, retail shops, restaurants, craft museum and
commercial shops.
10 The proposed conservation (Phase 1) is being undertaken with the aim of ensuring that the historic buildings: the Old Kings House and
Court House in particular, are physically stable to undergo planned future development under Phase 2 of the programme.
 14.5
Construction work on Phase 1B started in 2009 and is
scheduled for completion in 2014. These works included the
development of specified cargo, airfield, apron, airside, terminal
and landside facilities.
Sangster International Airport Expansion Project
Work on Phase 2 of the Capital Development Programme at
SIA11, which involved the expansion and renovation of the
existing terminal was completed and commissioned in April 2009.
This resulted in:
— a 4 366 meters square Air Terminal Building, that more
than doubled the previous capacity;
— 12 additional loading bridges and gates, bringing the to-
tal to 18;
— a 46.0 per cent increase in apron area; and
— customer service improvements which included ex-
panded arrival and customs halls.
In addition, plans are being made for runway maintenance and
additional access roads at the airport.
Road Construction Work
The Northern Coastal Highway Improvement Project1212
(NCHIP) comprised the rehabilitation of 96 kilometres of a
two-lane main road from Ocho Rios to Port Antonio, including the
construction of eight new bridges and the rehabilitation of 16
bridges. The project was divided into five sections.
— Section 1: Ocho Rios to Oracabessa (20 km);
— Section 2: Oracabessa to Port Maria (13 km);
— Section 3: Port Maria to Wag Water Bridge (17 km);
— Section 4: Agualta Vale to Buff Bay (20 km);
— Section 5: Buff Bay to Port Antonio (26 km).
The contract which was signed on October 21, 2005 had a
mobilization period of five months and an original completion
date of June 3, 2008. The project was completed on June 30, 2009
with a defects liability13 period of 12 months to June 30, 2010.
Highway 2000
Work continued on the construction of the Linstead to
Moneague Bypass segment in St. Ann (includes Mount Rosser
Bypass). As at December 2009, the roadway was approximately
70.0 per cent complete with completion scheduled for October
2010. This segment is a phase of Highway 2000 and consists of a
24 kilometre four lane dual carriageway. The tolled roadway
which will start at the existing Bog Walk/Linstead Bypass will
detour the town of Ewarton, the hills of Mount Rosser and Mount
Diablo, and end on the road to Claremont, St. Ann.
Total Project Cost amounted to $7.0 billion. Construction
work which started in June 2007 was halted during the final week
of June 2009 due to funding difficulties. Work was restarted in the
11 This was the final phase of the three-phase (1A, 1B & 2) development programme at the SIA.
12 Project financing comprised a 80.0 million ($6.5 billion) grant from the European Union (EU) and counterpart funding from the
Government of Jamaica of 25.0 million ($2.0 billion).
13 Defects Liability means that the contractor is responsible for all working defects that might arise during this time.
14 An electrical inspection is required for all new building units or expansion/modification to existing units.
14.5
final week of July 2009. Capital Expenditure for 2009
amounted to approximately $3.2 billion.
Preliminary work on Phase 1B of Highway 2000
commenced during the year. This approximately 37.7
kilometers of road way will comprise:
— Sandy Bay to Four Paths, land acquisitions are
now in progress; and
— Four Paths to Williamsfield , land valuations are in
progress
Montego Bay Bogue Road Improvement - Work on
the $1.4 billion project continued and entails the dualisation
of the roadway between the communities of Reading and
Fairview. Construction work is under Segment 1A of the
North Coast Highway Improvement Project.
Rehabilitation of the Fern Gully Roadway, for which
the first phase is almost completed, with technical work
being far advanced for phases two and three. This project
includes concrete pavement works to ensure greater
resistance to water in the Fern Gully.
Bridge Construction
Under the Government of Jamaica/R.A. Murray Priority
Bridge Programme, 15 locations across the island were
targeted for the construction of new bridges at a combined
cost of US$45.0 million. The following bridges have been
completed: the Milk River, Johnson River, Black River,
Seven River, Worthy Park, Angel’s River and Gordon Town.
Work is in progress on other bridges, including the Bog
Walk, Steer Town, Troy and the Waterloo Road Bridge in St.
Andrew.
Construction work on the Waterloo Bridge was
completed and the first two lanes were opened to traffic.
Work was started on the second phase of the project in
September 2009. Phase Two comprises excavation, steel
and concrete works, the additional launching of girders,
installation of guard rails and the construction of approach
roads. The US$1.9 million new four lane bridge is expected
to be completed by December 2010.
INSTALLATION
Electrical Inspections14: The number of electrical
inspections carried out by the Electrical Division of the
Ministry of Energy and Mining totalled 32 310 from 29 681
inspections registered in 2008 (see Table 14.2). Of the total
inspection conducted, approximately 79.7 per cent or 25 753
were passed. The proportionate compositions of total
inspections by categories were as follows:
— 25 676 – Domestic (79.5 per cent);
— 4 246 – Commercial (13.1 per cent);
— 8 – Industrial (0.02 per cent); and
— 2 380 – Other (7.4 per cent).
 14.6 14.6

Installation of Water Meters: A total of 27 655 water meters
were installed island wide by the National Water Commission
(NWC) compared with 23 271 meters installed in 2008. This
represented the second consecutive year of increase and reflected
the continuation of the NWC’s thrust to install and replace new
and existing meters in 200815.
both the number of mortgages (34.6 per cent) and the value
of mortgages (50.0 per cent).
The HAJ did not disburse any mortgage loans in 2009.
During 2008, the agency disbursed 48 mortgages valued at
$13.9 million.

Water meter installations for the Eastern and Western
Divisions amounted to 15 710 and 11 945, respectively. Within
the Eastern Division, the number of meters installed in the
Kingston/St. Andrew/St. Thomas Region totalled 6 741, the
highest number of meters installed. Manchester/St. Elizabeth
Region with a total of 4 601 installations, had the highest number
of meters installed for the Western Division (Table 14.3).
FINANCING TO THE INDUSTRY
Total disbursements by the Jamaica Mortgage Bank
(JMB) to the developers in the industry stood at $401.5
million compared with a total of $117.6 million in 2008.
Some of the major disbursements were:
— Stonebrook Housing Development, Trelawny -
$215.0 million (53.5 per cent);
— Discovery Point, St. Ann – $68.10 million (17.0
per cent);

The general reduction in economic activity negatively affected
mortgage financing to the Construction industry. This was
reflected in the total value and volume of mortgages16 disbursed
which declined by 38.6 per cent and 37.3 per cent, respectively.
Total mortgages disbursed amounted to $20.3 billion, with the
volume amounting to 6 566 mortgages (see Table 14 .2).
Building Societies accounted for 53.4 per cent (2 037) of total
mortgage loans valued at $10 849.4 million. This represented a
fall of 56.7 per cent and a 51.5 per cent, respectively. The average
value of mortgages disbursed amounted to $5.33 million relative
to the $4.75 million recorded in 2008.
The volume and value of mortgages disbursed by the NHT
stood at 4 529 (down 18.3 per cent) and $9 404.3 million (down
9.7 per cent), respectively. Of total mortgages disbursed by the
NHT, the Open Market category accounted for the largest share of
— University Crescent, St. Andrew - $26.6 million
(23.0 per cent);
— Negril Estates, Westmoreland - $22.3 million (5.5
per cent).
Commercial Bank Loans & Advances to the industry
as at the end of December 2009 was $19 915.7 million,
compared with the $12 902.1 million as at the end of
December 2008. Of the total, $18 439.9 million (92.6 per
cent) was for the category Construction, while the remainder
was for Land Development and Land Acquisition.
At the end of December 2009, loans from Institutions
Licensed under the Financial Institutions Act to the
industry totalled $2 211.7 million compared with $2 514.9
million at the end of December 2008.

TABLE 14.3
METERS INSTALLED ISLANDWIDE BY THE NATIONAL WATER COMMISSION
(2005-2009)

% Change
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2008 2009
2007 2008

Eastern Division 10 771 12 340 7 129 17 559 15 710 146.3 -10.5

Kingston/St. Andrew/St. Thomas 4 874 7 074 5 207 13 649 6 741 162.1 -50.6
Clarendon 2 136 1 361 593 1 112 2 689 87.5 141.8
Portland / St.Mary 2 021 1 961 526 985 3 671 87.3 272.7
ST.Catherine 1 740 1 944 803 1 813 2 609 125.8 43.9

Western Division 9 775 8 595 4 612 5 712 11 945 23.9 109.1

St. Ann 1 574 1 444 1 158 1 384 2 588 19.5 87.0

Manchester/ St. Elizabeth 2 585 2 704 1 024 2 006 4 601 95.9 129.4
Trelawny / St. James 3 071 2 752 1 353 1 592 3 139 17.7 97.2
Hanover / Westmoreland 2 545 1 695 1 077 730 1 617 -32.2 121.5

Islandwide 20 546 20 935 11 741 23 271 27 655 98.2 18.8

Source: Compiled from data received from the National Water Commission

15 There was a shortage of water meters which impacted the installation process in 2007.
16 This does not include disbursements by the Jamaica Mortgage Bank Limited.
 14.7 14.7

TABLE 14.4
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE BY INSTITUTIONS
$'MILLION

Executing Agency 2007 2008 2009 % Change Remarks

Ministry of Transport and Works o/w 5 470.9 4 265.4 5 124 20.1 Funds were used to continue work on the
Northern Jamaica Development
Programme, traffic management, flood
damage rehabilitation programme (Pur-
chase of goods and services), and repair
and maintanence of existing roads.
National Works Agency (NWA) 1 447.5 412.0 241.1 -41.5 Expenditure on construction cost of Seg-
ment III of the Northern Jamaica Develop-
ment Project.
National Road Operating & Construction Company 41.7 2 363.6 3 191.9 35.0 Expenditure on the Highway 2000 project.
limited (NROCC) b
National Water Commission (NWC) n/a 1 062.4 1 521.7 43.2 Continuted rehabilitation work various
Water Supply Programmes.
Jamaica Public Service Co. Limited 1 831.1 3 584.6 1 640.3 -54.2 Funds were used to upgrade general plant,
substation and generation capacity.
Telecommunication Sub - Sector 6 315.1 6 874.6 4 625.4 -32.7 Expenditure on installation, mobile com-
munications expansion, improvement and
expansion of broadband services and ex-
pansion of VOIP
Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) 462.3 315.8 570.8 80.7 Construction and refurbishing of Schools,
Community Centres, Homes for El-
derly/Children, Stormwater Roads and
Water Sanitation
Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) 2 061.7 903.8 4 387.6 385.5 Funds were used mainly on infrastructure
development and the construction of
Docks and Berths
Urban Development Corporation Limited (UDC) 1 362.2 524.5 1 839.9 250.8 Ongoing Construction work on projects in-
cluding Montego Bay Sports
CompleMontego bay Convention Centre,
Port Maria Centre and the Urban Transport
Centre.

NOTES: a - some of the the activities by the different institutions were sub - contracted and are not mutually exclusive and therefore capital expenditure by the
different institutions cannot be aggregated.
b- the Jamaican dollar equivalent is estimated using an average exchange rate (US$1: $88.46) for 2009.

Source : Compiled by the Planning Institute of Jamaica from information received from various institutions

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
In a bid to improve and rationalize the road transport
infrastructure, a $1.2 billion contract was signed in October 2009
for the Washington Boulevard Improvement Project. This
Government of Jamaica and Caribbean Development Bank
funded project includes 2.75 kilometres of the roadway along
Washington Boulevard and Dunrobin Avenue which will be
widened from two to six lanes. This project is expected to improve
traffic volume capacity, thus reducing traffic congestion along the
corridor; improve traffic safety; reduce travel time and overall
road transportation/vehicle operating cost; and assist the
Government with the establishment of a vehicle weight
enforcement programme. Work is expected to be completed
within 16 months.
In order to ensure the completion of the island-wide highway
network, work continued on the Mount Rosser leg of the
north/south link. Negotiations continued during the year
regarding funding to establish the Spanish Town to Linstead leg.
This segment of the highway is critical for the sustainability
of the Mount Rosser segment.
The Sandy Bay to Four Paths section of Highway 2000 is
being prepared for construction work to commence. At the
end of September 2009, National Road Operating and
Construction Company Limited (NROCC) was now in legal
possession of approximately 96.0 per cent of the properties
necessary for construction of the section.
In October 2009, a $200.0 million contract was signed
for road works in Comfort Castle area of Portland. The
scope of work include the construction of gabion retaining
structure, with over 200 baskets, amounting to 400 square
meters, along with the reinstatement of the pavement in the
location of the breakaway.
OUTLOOK
Real value added for the Construction industry is
projected to decline for 2010. This performance is
 14.8
predicated of the continued impact of the global economic crisis
on the domestic economy. However, the downturn will be
tempered by planned road construction in the short to
medium-term.
The ongoing rehabilitation of the Palisadoes Road and the
expansion and rehabilitation of port facilities at Gordon Quay and
Fort Augusta will increase the demand for limestone, marl, fill,
sand and gravel. The continuation of the construction of the Bushy
Park to Moneague Toll Road and the Falmouth Pier will result in
an increase in the demand for these quarry products.
The Government would be undertaking a major five year
multi-million-dollar road improvement project, under the Jamaica
Road Development Infrastructure Programme. The project, which
will comprise two components, will cost approximately US$465.0
million. The project will be jointly funded by the GOJ and the
14.8
Government of China through a US$398-million loan
facility. The NWA will be the implementing agency.
Work along the Palisadoes peninsula in Kingston will
commence in April 2010. This will include the widening of
the roadway by between eight and 12 metres in some
sections, increasing the number of vehicular lanes from the
existing two to four, and raising the roadway up to three
metres.
Work will be carried out on the island’s network of roads,
bridges and drains that should result in the: (i) increased
capacity of roads to handle vehicular volume; (ii) improved
traffic management in town and city centres; and (iii)
rehabilitation of approximately 300 kilometres of parochial
roads. The loan from the Chinese Government will be
repaid from the $8.75 per litre cess of gasoline which was
levied in April 2009. ¢
CHAPTER 15
ENERGY, ELECTRICITY & WATER
INTRODUCTION
R eal Value Added for the Electricity & Water Supply Indus-
try grew by 2.2 per cent in 2009. Higher value added ema-
nated from increases in electricity generation and water produc-
tion. The growth in electricity generation, in response to greater
demand, occurred despite higher electricity charges. Growth in
water production was constrained by drought conditions in the
latter half of the year.
Total electricity generation amounted to 4 214.0 gigawatt
hours (GWh)1 compared with 4 123.3 in 2008. The marginal
increase in electricity generation was facilitated mainly by higher
output from non-Jamaica Public Service Company (JPSCo)
sources, whose share of total generation was 32.0 per cent
compared with 30.5 per cent in 2008. Output from JPSCo grew by
0.1 per cent. The heat rate2 was 10 167 kilojoules per kilowatt
hours (KJ/kWh) compared with 10 214 KJ/kWh. Total sales of
electricity for the year was 3 231.5 GWh, 3.2 per cent higher than
in 2008. JPSCo’s revenue for 2009 was $135.6 million lower than
the $71.7 billion reported in 2008.
The National Water Commission (NWC) produced
approximately 299 294.0 megalitres of water in 2009,
approximately 6 299.5 megalitres more than in 2008. Of the total
production, an estimated 92 697.8 megalitres were consumed
compared with 93 024.9 in 2008. The number of water
connections reached 416 888, a decline of 4.7 per cent. The
company’s billed revenue amounted to $15 003.6 million relative
to $12 978.1 million in 2008.
World oil supply was approximated at 84.9 million barrels per
day (mbd) relative to 86.5 million mbd in 2008. The reduction in
supply was in response to the fall in demand, associated with the
global economic recession. The output for 2009 reflected lower
production from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting
Countries (OPEC) as supply from non Organization for Economic
Corporation and Development (non-OECD) countries grew.
Production from OECD remained flat at 19.3 mbd. World oil
demand at 84.9 mbd was 1.5 per cent lower than in 2008 and was
due to reduced demand by OECD countries. Oil demand by
non-OECD countries grew by 2.1 per cent to 39.4 mbd. The
annual average spot peak price of crude oil on the international
market fell by 36.3 per cent to US$61.76. On the local market, the
average billing prices for all petroleum products surveyed in 2009
1 Gigawatt hour = 1 million kilowatt hours
2 Heat rate measures the efficiency of converting fuel to electricity. An increase in value implies deterioration in the efficiency of
conversion
were lower than in 2008, reflecting, among other things, the
price of crude oil on the international market.
ENERGY
Following record levels in 2008, crude oil prices ended
the year at US$41.34 per barrel. Prices trended upwards in
2009 and ended the year at US$74.88 per barrel. This has
implications for Jamaica’s energy cost, given Jamaica’s high
dependence on fossil fuel. Activities in the energy sector
were therefore centred around, among other things, the
formulation of new policy prescriptions that preserve a
competitive and efficient energy industry. The outcome of
these activities was the development of a long-term National
Energy Policy.
Policies and Programmes
The National Energy Policy 2009 – 2030 was tabled in
Cabinet in October 2009 and laid in the House of Parliament
in December 2009. The new policy which incorporated
comments from several community consultations on the
then energy policy document, is expected to be debated in
fiscal year 2009/2010. The policy was revised, updated and
restructured to reflect the current energy situation and to
align the policy direction with those of Vision 2030 Jamaica
– National Development Plan. In addition, the new policy
seeks to: 1) establish clear linkages with various sectors of
the economy to ensure policy coherence and to achieve the
country’s stated energy goals; and 2) include a monitoring
and implementation schedule to better facilitate the planning
process. The new policy focusses on seven areas:
– Security of energy supply;
– A modernized energy infrastructure;
– Efficiency and conservation;
– Development of renewables;
– A governance and regulatory framework;
– Government leading in energy conservation prac-
tices; and
– The green economy and eco-efficiency by indus-
tries.
 15.2

TABLE 15.1
WORLD OIL DEMAND 2005- 2009
(MILLION BARRELS PER DAY)
% Change
2005r 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

OECD 49.8 49.5 49.2 47.6 45.5 -3.3 -4.4

North America 25.6 25.4 25.5 24.2 23.2 -5.1 -3.7
Europe 15.7 15.7 15.3 15.3 14.6 0.0 -4.6
Pacific 8.6 8.5 8.4 8.1 7.7 -3.6 -4.9

TOTAL NON-OECD 34.2 35.7 37.3 38.6 39.4 3.5 2.1

Former Soviet Union 3.9 4.0 4.1 4.2 3.9 2.4 -7.1
Latin America 5.1 5.4 5.7 5.9 6.0 3.5 1.7
China 6.7 7.2 7.6 7.9 8.5 3.9 7.6
Others a 18.4 19.0 19.9 20.7 21.0 4.0 1.4

TOTAL DEMAND 84.0 85.3 86.5 86.2 84.9 -0.3 -1.5

a. - Other Asia, Middle East,

Africa, Europe
p - preliminary
r - revised
Discrepancies in table may be due to rounding.

Source: International Energy Agency

Other policies developed to support the National Energy
Policy (NEP) include the Energy Conservation & Efficiency
Policy (ECE), Carbon Emission Trading Policy and the Biofuels.
The ECE is an addendum to the (NEP)
In 2009, the government announced its interest in pursuing
Liquiefied Natural Gas (LNG) as the preferred fuel of choice3 and
a Project Unit was established in the PCJ to oversee the
implementation of the project. Among the decisions taken were:
1) that the floating LNG terminal technology be used; and 2) that
the project be implemented as a privately-financed Build, Own
and Operate project. Subsequently, a Request for Proposal (RFP)
was issued in November 2009 for the development the LNG
Terminal and gas pipeline network. Responses to the RFP are due
in February 2010. In the interim, PCJ will be working to finalize
all the commercial arrangements necessary, as physical
construction of the project is expected to commence in January
2010.
To enhance the effectiveness of the policy, a three-year energy
planning project “Supporting Human Resource Development and
Energy Planning” was launched in order to improve the capacity
of the Ministry of Energy & Mining (MEM) and other agencies to
plan, implement and monitor activities within the energy sector.
The ability to forecast energy demand was identified as an
important prerequisite in the planning and decision making
process. In order to facilitate this, a two-week capacity building
exercise was conducted in the form of a National Training Course
on Energy Demand Assessment using the Model for
Analysis of Energy Demand (MAED)4. Other energy
modelling tools will be introduced to complement the
Energy and Power Evaluation Progamme
(ENPEP-Balance)5 and the MAED. It is expected that this
suit of models will complement the Threshold 21 (T21)6 -
which underpins Vision 2030 Jamaica – National
Development Plan7.
Consistent with the focus on diversifying the energy mix
to 15.0 per cent renewables by 2015, the Centre of
Excellence for Renewable Energy (CERE)8 continued to
lay the foundation for energy renewable projects, through,
among other things, building institutional capacity and
conducting pre-feasibility and feasibility studies. Activities
in 2009 included work in the areas of biofuels, waste to
energy, wind and solar mapping, hydro power and biomass.
The biofuels sector – Ethanol and Biodiesel
In November, government in realization of its policy to
diversify the energy mix, fully introduced ethanol blended
gasoline in the transport sector and effected a full roll out of
the E10 – 87 and 90 gasoline blend. This came a year after
the E10 – 87 octane fuel was introduced to motor vehicle
operators. The ethanol blended gasoline has now become
mandatory.

3 This decision came against the background of reports of significant discounts in trading in natural gas relative to crude oil as well as
projections that natural gas price would remain lower in the foreseeable future.
4 This was the first phase of the Supporting Human Resource Development and Energy Planning Project.
5 ENPEP- Balance is a non-linear equilibrium model that matches the demand for energy with available resources and technology.
6 This is a dynamic model that is designed to support comprehensive, integrated, long-term national planning.
7 In 2008, work aimed at aligning the ENPEP model with the Threshold 21 (T21) was carried out.
8 CERE is a department within the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ).
 15.3

TABLE 15.2
WORLD OIL SUPPLY 2005 - 2009
(MILLION BARRELS PER DAY)
% Change
2005 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

OPEC 34.2 35.1 34.7 35.8 33.6 3.2 -6.1

OECD Supply 20.3 20.1 19.9 19.3 19.3 -3.0 0.0

North America 14.1 14.2 14.3 13.9 14.1 -2.8 1.4
Europe 5.6 5.3 5.0 4.8 4.5 -4.0 -6.3
Pacific 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.0 16.7

NON-OECD Supply 28.0 28.0 28.5 28.7 29.3 0.7 2.1

Former Soviet Union 11.8 12.3 12.8 12.8 13.3 0.0 3.9
Latin America 4.3 3.9 3.9 4.1 4.3 5.1 4.9
China 3.6 3.7 3.7 3.8 3.8 2.7 0.0
Others a 8.4 8.3 8.2 7.9 7.9 -3.7 0.0
Processing Gains 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.3 0.0 4.5

TOTAL NON-OPEC 50.4 50.4 50.9 50.7 51.3 -0.4 1.2

TOTAL SUPPLY 84.7 85.5 85.6 86.5 84.9 1.1 -1.8

a. - Other Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe

p - preliminary
r - revised
Discrepancies in table may be due to rounding.
Source: International Energy Ageny

In July 2009, a small scale biodiesel pilot project based on the
cultivation of different varieties of castor and jatropha requiring
80 acres of land was approved. The harvested feedstocks will be
processed into biodiesel, then tested and its performance in diesel
engines assessed.
Alternative Energy Sources (AES)
Several activities were advanced in the area of renewable
energy, including:
Wind Mapping – Wind studies were conducted during the
year at various sites, to facilitate the production of a wind map for
Jamaica. Wigton Wind Farms Ltd and other funding agencies
were in advanced negotiations on the contract terms for grant
funding for wind and solar development.
Solar – the solar water heater (SWH) testing at Font Hill was
completed in the second quarter of 2009. The aim was to develop a
methodology for testing SWH units to determine the most suitable
technology for the country. Also, the preliminary methodology
for testing the performance parameters of photovoltaic panels is
currently being refined. In addition, work started with relevant
stakeholders on a document in relation to the installation of
photovoltaics systems.
Hydro – Activities included:
– a 2 MW hydro power plant at Laughlands Great River in
St. Ann is currently in its pre-engineering stage and details
are be ing fi nal ized. Pur chase and ease ment rights are
being negotiated;
– a feasibility review for the Back Rio Grande Hydro
Scheme in Portland was completed in December
with fund ing for the re view pro vided by
CARICOM; and
– a feasibility study for the development of a hydro
project with a 8 MW generation capacity, at Great
River in St. James.
Waste to Energy – A Request for Proposal (RFP) was
floated to identify partners, with the capacity to undertake
the technical work aspects, to enter into joint venture with
government in order to improve the management of the
country’s waste. Four bids were received and the successful
bidder was invited to negotiate in September 2009. Two
waste to energy facilities were identified: 1) the Eastern
Renewables Ltd. (formerly Riverton, St. Catherine Disposal
Site); and 2) Western Renewables Ltd. (formerly
Retirement, St. James Disposal Site. The projects were to be
submitted for Cabinet’s approval. A potential of 65.0 MW of
electricity generation capacity has been targeted for
development.
Biomass – a draft terms of reference (TOR) for a
Biomass Resource Assessment Study was sent to the MEM
and the Forestry Department for their review and input prior
to its finalization. The objective of the study is to assess the
biomass resources available locally. In October 2009, the
Ministry and the Forestry Department discussed the
potential challenges and opportunities of producing a joint
study.
 15.4

140

120

100
US$/per barrel

80

60

40

20
Ap 08

Jun 08
Jul 08
Aug 08

Oct 08
Nov 08

Apr 09

Jun 09
Jul 09
Aug 09

Oct 09
Nov 09
Jan 08
Feb 08
Mar 08

May 08

Sep 08

Dec 08
Jan 09
Feb 09
Mar 09

May 09

Sep 09

Dec 09
FIGURE 15A: AVERAGE SPOT PEAK PRICE MOVEMENTS FOR CRUDE OIL, 2008 AND 2009

Public Sector Energy Efficiency Programme9 these locations in 2008. The installation of SWHs in
hospitals would result in overall savings in electricity
The hospital energy efficiency projects continued, with the consumption of 6.0 per cent – 8.0 per cent.
installation of SWH; installation of internal hot water piping and Projects to correct faults in electrical systems at the
fixtures; correction of electrical faults; and upgrading of electrical Princess Margaret Hospitals as well as similar corrections
systems. In March 2009, work was completed on two 5 700 litre and general upgrading at the Annotto Bay Hospital were
capacity SWH systems at the Spanish Town and St. Ann’s Bay also undertaken during the year. These faults were
hospitals. In addition, there was the installation on SWH piping responsible for higher than normal energy usage at and the
and fixtures at the Lionel Town and Black River Hospitals. This frequent failure of critical equipment.
was to make it possible to utilize the SWH systems installed at

TABLE 15.3
AVERAGE BILLING PRICES FOR SELECTED PETROLEUM PRODUCTS, 2005 - 2009
($/LITRE)
% Change
2008 2009
2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p 2007 2008

ADO 37.65 43.21 48.67 69.90 61.24 43.6 -12.4

Fuel Oil 18.32 22.46 27.64 39.45 42.7
LPG 23.15 26.11 30.27 39.71 30.86 31.2 -22.3
Unleaded 87 39.57 47.11 51.78 63.32 60.26b 22.3 -
Unleaded 90 40.94 48.68 53.31 64.57 61.74b 21.1 -
Unleaded E10 - 87 n/a n/a n/a 50.12a 60.06 - -
Unleaded E10 - 90 n/a n/a n/a n/a 70.50c - -
Kerosene 38.29 43.00 49.41 69.55 54.45 40.80 -21.7

p - preliminary
n/a - not applicable as product was introduced in November 2008 and 2009
a - represents average for November and December 2008
b - represents average for January - October 2009
c - represents average for November and December 2009

Source: Compiled from data provided by Petrojam Refinery

9 A programme aimed at improving energy efficiency in the public sector.

 15.5

TABLE 15.4A
VOLUME AND VALUE OF CRUDE OIL IMPORTS, 2007- 2009

% Change
2007 2008 2009p 2009/2008
Volume Value Volume Value Volume Value Volume Value
('000 Bls.) ('000 US $) ('000 Bls.) ('000 US $) ('000 Bls.) ('000 US $)
REFINERY
Venezuelean Crude 7 950.3 491 236.0 7 725.0 711 760.0 8 702.5 501 097.1 12.7 -29.6
Mexican Crude 349.7 20 007.7 534.1 59 504.8 0 0 - -
Oriente Crude 61.1 4 169.7 0 0 0 0 - -
TOTAL CRUDE OIL 8 361.1 515 413.4 8 259.0 771 264.8 8 702.5 501 097.1 5.4 -35.0

Average cost per barrel for 61.64 93.38 57.58 -38.3

crude oil (US$)

Bbls - Barrels
US $ - United States Dollars
p - preliminary

Source: Compiled from data supplied from the Petrojam Refinery.

PERFORMANCE countries as well as supply cut by the Organization of

International Oil Market
World oil demand contracted for the second consecutive
year10. Demand for 2009 was approximated at 84.9 mbd, 1.3 mbd
less than in 2008, and largely reflected reduced demand in OECD
territories as the demand for oil in non-OECD grew by 2.1 per cent
to 39.4 mbd (Table15.1). OECD territories recorded declines due
mainly to the weakened economic conditions. Higher demand in
the non-OECD countries was fuelled mainly by China, which
grew by 10.7 per cent in 2009.
World oil supply was 1.8 per cent lower than in 2008. The fall
in total supply was brought about mainly by a 6.1 per cent
reduction in OPEC supply. Total non-OPEC supply grew by 1.2
per cent in 2009 to 51.3 mbd, reflecting higher production levels
from non-OECD countries (Table 15.2). The territories that
contributed to this increase were the Former Soviet Union and
Latin America as output from the other territories within the
non-OECD group remained relatively flat. OECD supply
remained unchanged as increased supplies from North America
and the Pacific territories were outweighed by reduced output
from Europe.
The annual average spot peak price for crude oil on the
international market fell to US$61.76 per barrel, US$35.23 less
than the average for 2008. In 2009, average monthly crude oil
prices started at US$43.86 per barrel in January and gradually
increased to peak at US$77.55 per barrel in November before
falling to US$74.88 per barrel in December (Figure 15A). Price
movements, especially earlier in the year, were influenced by the
interplay of several factors, including a weakened demand
consequent on the global economic recession, and which was
exacerbated by the build up in inventories. Prices strengthened
after March, driven mainly by expectations of the increased
demand, supply disruptions in Nigeria and other oil producing
Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Domestic Market
Average Billing Prices
For the 10 months to October,11 the average billing prices
of Unleaded 87 and Unleaded 90 averaged $60.26 per litre,
$61.74 per litre, respectively. This compared with average
prices of $65.86 per litre for Unleaded 87 and $67.07 per
litre for Unleaded 90 in 2008. Unleaded E10 – 87 which was
introduced in November 2008 at an average price of $53.56
per litre, averaged $60.06 per litre for 2009. Unleaded E10 –
90, introduced in November 2009, averaged $70.50 per litre
for the two months November – December 2009. For the
year, the average billing price of the other petroleum
products surveyed fell relative to 2008 (Table 15.3), due to
the reduction in international oil prices.
Production
With the exception of Kerosene/Turbo Fuel, the
Petrojam Refinery recorded lower levels of production for
most petroleum products in 2009. Production figures for
2009 showed:
– Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) – down 14.3 per cent
to 120 756 barrels;
– Unleaded 87 – down 0.6 per cent to 1 103 075 bar-
rels;
– Automotive Diesel Oil (ADO) – falling by 1.3 per
cent to 1 282 711 barrels;
– Fuel Oil – declining by 2.8 per cent to 4 962 333 bar-
rels;

10 This has been the second year of decline since the early 1980’s
11 With the change from Unleaded 87 and Unleaded 90 to ethanol blended gasoline in the last quarter of 2009, billing prices for some
products (Unleaded 87, Unleaded 90 and Unleaded E10) were reported for the months of January to October, while billing prices for
E10 87 and E10 90 were reported for the months of November and December
 15.6

TABLE 15.4B
VOLUME AND VALUE OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS IMPORTS, 2007 - 2009

% Change
2007 2008 2009p 2009/2008
Volume Value Volume Value Volume Value Volume Value
('000 Bls.) ('000 US $) ('000 Bls.) ('000 US $) ('000 Bls.) ('000 US $)
PETROJAM
LPG 844.2 51 766.0 746.6 55 201.8 756.4 34 225.8 1.3 -38.0
Unleaded 87 1 219.1 109 337.7 1 680.2 175 126.8 1705.5 119 665.8 1.5 -31.7
Unleaded 90 0 0 0 0 150.5 13 119.8 - -
Jet Fuel/Kerosene 999.1 96 152.5 698.2 88 494.1 568.3 40 170.7 -18.6 -54.6
MTBE 244.2 22 786.5 255.4 31 213.4 48.7 3821.3 -80.9 -87.8
Automotive Diesel Oil 2 097.6 188 321.6 2 294.6 282 171.0 2 008.0 141 302.1 -12.5 -49.9
Heavy Fuel Oil 4 261.8 258 547.1 3 619.4 278 851.8 2 575.9 149 262.2 -28.8 -46.5
Asphalt 0 0 5.2 445.3 12 515.3 130.8 15.7

BAUXITE COMPANIES
Bunker C 6 569.1 343 834.2 6 908.4 512 568.7 985.2 38 761.3 -85.7 -92.4
Low Vanadium ADO 2 056.5 101 064.8 2 111.0 167 379.4 2 122.4 109 282.6 0.5 -34.7

MARKETING COMPANIES
Refined Products 3 358.5 332 112.4 2 516.5 355 377.4 2 299.2 170 260.4 -8.6 -49.2
Lubricants 73.8 16 017.1 37.2 8 630.7 34.3 9 836.6 -7.8 14

TOTAL CRUDE 515 413.4 771 264.8 501 097.1 -35

GRAND TOTAL 2 007 801.9 2 706 725.2 1 331 321.0 -50.8

Bbls - Barrels
US $ - United States Dollars
p - preliminary

Source: Compiled from data supplied from the Petrojam Refinery, Bauxite Mining Companies & Petroleum Marketing Companies

– Asphalt – down 1.0 per cent to 103 638 barrels.
The reduced production levels were due mainly to the decline
in demand for most products. In particular, the closure of some
alumina companies and the completion of activities on some
highway construction projects contributed to the lower production
of ADO and Asphalt, respectively. In addition, plant downtimes
occasioned by the closure of the refinery for 17 days in June due to
the damage of the pier by a vessel12 also contributed to the lower
production. Refining activities were also suspended for
approximately 25 days during October – November to facilitate
scheduled maintenance activities.
Imports of Crude Oil & Petroleum Products
Approximately 8.7 million barrels of crude oil was imported
compared with 8.3 million barrels in 2008. However, the value fell
by 35.0 per cent to US$501.1 million. The lower cost reflected the
downturn in crude oil prices especially earlier in the year. The
average cost per barrel of crude oil purchased by Jamaica was
US$57.58 per barrel. This compared with US$93.38 in 2008 and
US$61.64 in 2007 (Table 15.4A). Jamaica continued to benefit
from the 2005 Petro-Caribe Agreement on Energy Cooperation
Agreement13 signed with Venezuela.
The value of imported finished products by Petrojam fell
by 44.9 per cent to US$502.1 million, resulting from the
combined effect of the lower import volumes and lower
prices associated with the fall off in international crude oil
prices. Lower volumes and value were recorded for Jet Fuel,
ADO and Heavy Fuel Oil. The contraction may be attributed
to the downturn in demand. The reduction in the volume of
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) imports was a direct
result of government policy to replace the additive in
gasoline with ethanol. While higher volumes of imports
were recorded for LPG and Unleaded 87, the value of these
imports fell.
The energy intensive Bauxite/Alumina subindustry
imported approximately US$148.0 million worth of
petroleum products, 78.2 per cent less than in 2008. The
lower import bill for bauxite companies corresponded with
lower import volumes of Bunker C (see Table 15.4B), which
is directly related to the downturn in the sub industry. The
value of import by the petroleum marketing companies fell
by 47.6 per cent to US$180.1 million and reflected the
general fall in demand. The reduction in cost of imports was
a 50.8 per cent decline in the country’s total oil bill14 to
approximately US$1.3 billion (see Table 15.4B).

12 On June 1, 2009, the pier was damaged by a vessel – the “Great News” and as a consequence the Refinery operated for only 17 days in
month.
13 Under this arrangement, the Government of Venezuela initially supplied 21 000 barrels but currently supply 23 500 barrels of crude
oil per day to Petrojam at concessionary prices and more favourable terms of payment.
14 total value of crude oil and refined product imports
 15.7

TABLE 15.5
JAMAICA'S TOTAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION, 2005 - 2009
% Change
ENERGY SOURCE UNIT OF MEASURE 2005r 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009p 2008 2009
('000 Barrels) 2007 2008
PETROLEUM BASED
Aviation Gasoline " 6 0 0 0 0 - -
Turbo Fuel " 1 572 1 984 1 931 1 599 1 552 -17.2 -2.9
LPG " 886 929 903 925 874 2.4 -5.5
'Kerosene " 39 34 11 18 17 63.6 -5.6
Gasoline " 4 583 4 505 4 301 4 295 3 320 -0.1 -22.7
Unleaded E 10 0 0 0 88a 921 - 946.6
ADO " 4 538 4 004 3 827 3 661 3 354 -4.3 -8.4
ADO Bunker " 249 342 234 247 195 5.6 -21.1
Fuel Oil " 15 288 17 032 17 519 16 372 10 423 -6.5 -36.3
TOTAL PETROLEUM " 27 161 28 831 28 726 27 205 20 656 -5.3 -24.1
TOTAL PETROLEUM - BARRELS OF OIL 26 784 28 484 28 424 28 869 20 173 1.6 -30.1
EQUIVALENT (BOE)

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
Hydropower MWh 151 166 160 158 140 -1.3 -11.4
('000 BOE) 94 104 99 98 87 -1.0 -11.2
Wind 50 55 52 49 59 -5.8 20.4
32 34 32 31 36 -3.1 16.1
Coal ('000 Tonnes) 53 32 36 48 63 33.3 31.3
('000 BOE) 259 187 176 233 316 32.4 35.6
Charcoal - BOE ('000 BOE) 186 n/a n/a n/a n/a - -
Bagasse - BOE ('000 BOE) 467 602 591 n/a n/a - -
Fuelwood - BOE ('000 BOE) 556 n/a n/a n/a n/a - -
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY - BOE ('000 BOE) 1 594 927 898 362 439 -59.7 21.3

TOTAL PETROLEUM & ALTERNATIVE ('000 BOE) 28 377 29 410 29 322 27 231 20 612 -7.1 -24.3
ENERGY

r - revised
p - preliminary
n/a - not available
a - Represents data for the months of November and
December
BOE - Barrel of Oil Equivalent

Source: Compiled from data supplied by the Ministry of Energy & Mining

Petrojam Sales The relatively favourable weather conditions as well as

Relative to 2008, lower sales was recorded for most of the
petroleum products surveyed. The decline in the total sales was
due mainly to a general downturn in demand, exacerbated by,
among other things, the introduction of a Special Consumption
Tax on gasoline in April 2009. The figures for 2009 showed:
– Unleaded 87 – 886 628 barrels (down 60.3 per cent );
– Kerosene/Turbo – 16 831 barrels (down 98.6 per cent);
– Automotive Diesel Oil (ADO) – 2 933 276 barrels (down
19.2 per cent);
– Fuel Oil – 5 262 893 barrels (down 41.2 per cent); and
– Asphalt – 101 288 barrels (down 26.5 per cent).
The introduction of Unleaded E10 as a substitute for Unleaded
87 in November 2008 resulted in reduced sales of Unleaded 87 for
the year. The sale of Unleaded 90, however, increased (up 21.6 per
cent to 740 198 barrels), reflecting higher demand for the product,
given the impact of the fall in crude oil prices on the international
market.
the down-turn in the international travel market resulted in
lower demand for Kerosene/Turbo fuel. The decline in sales
of ADO and Asphalt reflected the slump in the
bauxite/alumina subindustry and the conclusion of activities
in some road construction activities.
Ethanol Production
For the year, ethanol production by Petrojam Ethanol
Limited amounted to 13.4 million gallons compared with
24.0 million gallons in 2008. Approximately 8.0 million
gallons was exported relative to 30.5 million gallons. The
fall in export was attributed to cessation of production earlier
in the year, due to the pending divestment of the ethanol
plant as part of the sugar divestment programme. Also, in
the last quarter of the year, the rise input cost made it
unprofitable to produce for the export market. During the
year, there was the full roll-out of Unleaded E10 as the local
transport fuel. Local sales of the product amounted to 7.3
million gallons.
 15.8

TABLE 15.6
PETROLEUM CONSUMPTION BY PRODUCT, 2005 - 2009
(Barrels)
% Change
2005 2006 2007r 2008 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008
PRODUCT
Aviation Gasoline 5 700 - 0 0 0 - -
Turbo Fuel 1 571 738 1 983 596 1 931 222 1 598 706 1 552 054 -17.2 -2.9
Unleaded 87 3 149 273 3 330 554 3 232 175 3 194 939 2 124 681 -1.2 -33.5
Unleaded 90 1 433 463 1 174 201 1 086 783 1 069 595 1 195 785 0.1 11.8
E10 - 78 n/a n/a n/a 30 374 871 668 - 2 769.8
E10 - 90 0 0 0 0 49 522a - -
Kerosene 39 059 34 273 10 691 17 565 17 274 64.3 -1.7
ADO 4 537 938 4 004 230 3 826 928 3 661 327 3 601 603 -4.3 -1.6
ADoO Bunker 249 045 342 390 234 026 247 330 194 542 5.7 -21.3
Fuel Oil (Bunker C) 13 133 964 14 805 667 15 460 796 14 249 852 8 268 757 -7.8 -42.0
Fuel Oil (Low Vanadium) 2 153 727 2 226 127 2 055 242 1 122 071 2 154 086 3.3 1.5
LPG 885 671 929 258 902 979 925 288 874 435 2.5 -5.5
Lubricants 88 885 104 529 89 420 55 027 40 703 -38.5 -26
Asphalt 129 413 192 771 150 660 137 755 51 827 -8.6 -62.4
Other 2 194 2 100 4 637 1 027 0 -77.9 -

r - revised
p - preliminary
n/a = not applicable
a - Represents data for the months of November and December

Source: Compiled from data supplied by the Ministry of Energy & Mining

Energy Consumption mainly to the downturn in the subindustry16. Also, reflecting

The country’s total energy consumption at 20.6 million Barrel
of Oil Equivalent (BOE) was 24.3 per cent lower than in 2008
(Table 15.5). This is due to a reduction in Petroleum Based
consumption (down 30.1 per cent), as consumption from
Alternative Energy sources increased by 21.3 per cent to 439 000
BOE (see Table 15.5). In the petroleum based category, with the
exception of Unleaded E10, reduced consumption was recorded
for all products. Fuel Oil recorded the largest decline of 36.3 per
cent in consumption to 10 423 BOE. The consumption of
Unleaded E10 reached 921 000 barrels compared with 88 000
barrels15 in 2008. Increased consumption from alternative energy
sources emanated from growth in consumption from coal and
wind (see Table 15.5). Energy consumption from hydro power
sources fell, which may be attributed to the drought conditions
which prevailed in the latter half of 2009.
There was lower consumption for most petroleum products in
2009 (Table 15.6). This was due to reduced demand brought about
by, among other things, the impact of the global economic
recession. The products recording reduction in consumption
were Turbo Fuel, Unleaded 87, Kerosene, ADO, Fuel Oil (Bunker
C), LPG and Lubricants. Increased consumption was recorded
for: a) Unleaded 90, as consumers demanded more of the product,
given the lowering of its price.
The decline in petroleum consumption was reflected in most
activities, given the general downturn in consumer demand (Table
15.7). The largest fall-off occurred in bauxite/alumina, due
the impact of the global economic recession on trade and
travel, petroleum consumption in shipping and aviation fell.
The 17.1 per cent fall off in petroleum consumption in the
area of sugar manufacture was associated with the downturn
in sugar production (see Table 15.7). The reduction in
petroleum consumption for Cement manufacture is
consistent with the contraction in construction activities.
Higher petroleum consumption for Road & Rail
Transportation was driven mainly by reduced petrol prices
in 2009 when compared to 2008 when crude oil prices
averaged US$100 per barrel.
ELECTRICITY
Generation
Total electricity generation 17 was 4 214.0 GWh
compared with 4 123.3 GWh in 2008 (Table 15.8). The
higher output was facilitated by increased generation from
non-JPSCo (up 7.1 per cent) and JPSCo (up 0.1 per cent)
sources. The out-turn for the year came against an
improvement in demand especially after the first quarter.
Peak demand at 644.0 million kWh in September, reached its
highest in the July- September quarter. Consequently, both
JPSCo and non-JPSCo sources recorded their highest level
of quarterly production since their operation. The higher
demand was due to the extension of summer-like

15 This represented the figure for two months out of the year as the use of Unleaded E10 started in November 2008.
16 See chapter on Mining and Quarrying.
17 Total generation include net generation from JPSCo. plus generation (purchases) from non-JPSCo. sources.
 15.9

TABLE 15.7
PETROLEUM CONSUMPTION BY ACTIVITY, 2005 - 2009
(Barrels)
% Change
ACTIVITY 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

Road & Rail Transportation 6 247 835 6 373 380 6 079 884 5 835 304 5 901 747 -4.0 1.1
Shipping 1 636 028 3 239 911 3 972 826 2 805 615 2 221 514 -29.4 -20.8
Aviation 1 577 438 1 983 596 1 931 222 1 598 706 1 552 054 -17.2 -2.9
Cement Manufacture 37 066 14 338 28 477 26 004 12 638 -8.7 -51.4
Electricity Generation 6 555 261 6 390 163 6 654 238 6 274 571 6 661 735 -5.7 6.2
Bauxite/Alumina Processing 9 799 121 9 551 792 8 807 899 9 392 039 3 493 973 6.6 -62.8
Sugar Manufacturing 40 283 50 055 61 491 43 764 36 278 -28.8 -17.1
Cooking & Lighting 924 730 963 531 912 116 931 853 883 418 2.2 -5.2
Petroleum Refinery 164 247 331 788 362 947 355 076 309 666 -2.2 -12.8
Other Manufacturing 163 261 181 695 198 995 136 634 74 605 -31.3 -45.4
Other 180 749 83 935 80 332 73 584 66 465 -8.4 -9.7

p - preliminary

Source: Ministry of Energy & Mining

temperatures into September and resulted in increased usage of
cooling units such as air conditioners and fans.
Output from the JPSCo units, which grew marginally to
2 867.1 GWh, was generated from the company’s steam units as
generation from its Hydro and Gas Turbines fell (see Table
15.8). The downturn in production from hydro units was
due to downtimes at the Rio Bueno A and B plants, while the
fall-off at the Gas Turbines may be attributed to the decision
to engage unit that used the less expensive fuel.

TABLE 15.8
JPSCo: GENERATING CAPACITY, OUTPUT, HEAT RATE & FUEL CONSUMPTION, 2005 - 2009

%Change
UNIT 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

GENERATING CAPACITY MW 767.6 817.8 817.8 817.8 817.8 - -

Steam 292 292 292 292 292 - -

Hydro 21.6 21.6 21.6 21.6 21.6 - -
Slow Speed Diesel 36 36 36 36 38 - -
Gas Turbine 271.5 271.5 271.5 271.5 271.5 - -
Purchase Power 166.5 216.7 216.7 216.5 216.5 - -
INDEPENDENT PRODUCERS MW - -
Wartsilla 74.2 124.4 124.4 124.4 124.4 - -
Jamalcoa 11 11 11 11 11 - -
JPPC 61.3 61.3 61.3 61.3 61.3 - -
WIGTON 20 20 20 20 20 - -
Jamaica Broilers 0 0 0 0 0 - -

NET OUTPUT GWh 2 810.8 2 702.0 2 800 2 865 2 867.1 2.3 0.1

Steam 1 567.9 1 311.9 1 532.7 1 452.7 1 470.3 -5.2 1.2

Slow Speed Diesel 220.4 232 138.5 240.7 255.5 73.8 6.1
Hydro 151.3 169.6 159.8 158.2 140.7 -1.0 -11.1
Gas Turbines 871.2 988.5 968.9 1 014.1 1 001.2 4.7 -1.3

NON-JPSCo. SOURCES GWh 1 067.1 1 344.4 1 275.6 1 257.7 1 346.9 -1.4 7.1
TOTAL OUTPUT GWh 3 878.0 4 046.4 4 075.5 4 123.3 4 214.0 1.2 2.2

TOTAL SYSTEM HEAT RATE KJ/kWh 10 986 10 175 10 324 10 214 10 178 -1.1 -0.4
TOTAL FUEL CONSUMPTION 000 Barrels 5 285.2 4 749.1 5 518.6 4 998.7 5 021.8 -3.1 0.5
TOTAL FUEL COST $'000 18 826 710 21 260 686 26 381 937 37 665 178 32 095 106 42.8 -14.8

p - preliminary

Source - Compiled from data provided by the JPSCo.

 15.10

TABLE 15.9
JPSCo: SALES & REVENUE
2005 - 2009
% Change
Unit 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

DISPOSAL OF ELECTRICITY

Sales: GWh 3 011.3 3 094.0 3 164.0 3 130 3 231.5 -1.1 3.2

Residential Rate 10 1 107.0 1 094.2 1 075.1 1 032.0 1 091.9 -4.0 5.8

General Service Rate 20 628.5 644.4 659.2 650.4 670.0 -1.3 3
Power Service Rate 40 734.0 760.9 771.3 759.7 777.6 -1.5 2.4
Large Power Rate 50 457.4 506 567.4 590.6 594.6 4.1 0.7
Street Lighting Rate 60 64.7 65.7 66.4 69.4 70.4 4.5 1.4
Other 19.6 22.8 24.2 27.6 26.9 14 -2.5

Company use GWh 12.2 12.9 13.5 13.2 11.5 -2.2 -12.9
Line Losses & Other
Unaccounted for Net Generation GWh 854.4 939.5 898.0 980.2 971.0 9.2 -0.9

REVENUE $ '000 40 253 128 48 237 144 54 313 817.0 71 655 552 71 519 976 31.9 -0.2

Residential Rate 10 16 307 565 18 506 232 20 190 025.0 25 008 632 26 610 727 23.9 6.4
General Service Rate 20 9 389 304 11 201 434 12 691 157.0 16 422 134 16 680 780 29.4 1.6
Power Service Rate 40 8 494 535 10 609 944 11 778 289.0 16 213 581 15 147 131 37.7 -6.6
Large Power Rate 50 4 709 007 6 311 236 7 877 656.0 11 510 736 10 559 373 46.1 -8.3
Street Lighting Rate 60 1 002 388 1 209 631 1 311 761.0 1 822 646 1 779 676 38.9 -2.4
Othera 350 329 398 667 464 928.0 677 823.0 742 110 45.8 9.5

a - Includes other generating and other operating revenues.

p Preliminary

Source: Jamaica Public Service Company

Generation from the Non-JPSCo sources reached 1 346.9
GWh compared with 1 257.6 GWh in 2008 (see Table 15.8). As a
result, the share of output from non-JPSCo sources increased to
32.0 per cent relative to 30.5 per cent in 2008. The shares for
preceding years were 31.3 per cent in 2007 and 33.2 per cent in
2006.
Heat Rate, Fuel Consumption and Fuel Cost
There was a marginal decline of 0.5 per cent in the total system
heat rate to 10 178 KJ/kWh (see Table 15.8). This marked the
second consecutive year of decline and reflected the combined
effect of the removal of one of the JPSCo’s least efficient units and
the installation of an inlet cooler in the Combined Cycle at Bogue
to improve efficiency. The total fuel consumed by the JPSCo
increased to 5 021.8 thousand barrels from 4 998.7 thousand
barrels in 2008. However, reflecting the lower crude oil prices,
especially in the earlier part of the year, total fuel cost fell by 14.8
per cent to $32.1 billion. The reduction in the fuel cost was passed
on to consumers through monthly adjustments in the Independent
Private Producers (IPP) and fuel charge component of the
electricity bill. Further reduction in the total fuel cost for 2009
may have been tempered by the steady increase in international
crude oil prices during the latter part of the year.
Electricity Disposal & Revenue
Total electricity sales to final consumers increased to 3 231.5
GWh compared with 3 130.0 GWh in 2008 (Table 15.9), which
reversed the decline reported in 2008. Total electricity sales
represented 76.7 per cent of total generation, while Line Losses &
Unaccounted for Net Generation (971.0 GWh) and
Company Use (11.5 GWh) accounted for the remaining 23.7
per cent.
The growth in sales to most consumer categories
reflected increased demand. The Residential category was
the main contributor, increasing its usage by 59.9 GWh. The
higher sales to Residential customers, which reversed three
consecutive years of declines, may be associated with: 1) the
summer-like temperatures extending to September; and 2) a
relaxation of conservation practices given the tempering of
the rise in price of electricity. The General Service and
Power Service categories recorded absolute increases of
19.6 GWh and 17.9 GWh, respectively. The overall increase
may be attributed to the rise in the number of consumers in
the categories that were associated with high usage, for
example, Large Power and Power Service (Table 15.10).
The JPSCo’s use of electricity fell by 12.9 per cent to 11.5
GWh. Line Losses & Other Unaccounted for Net
Generation also fell, due in part to, the JPSCo’s Loss
Reduction Initiative, under which illegal consumers are
encouraged to become regularized or face sanctions.
The JPSCo’s revenue was $0.1 billion short of the $71.7
billion obtained in 2008 (see Table 15.9). This fall–off in
revenue followed 11 years of increases and reflected lower
fuel prices for most part of the year. Increased revenue was
recorded for the Residential, General Service and the
category Other, but these were outweighed by declining
revenues to Power Service, Large Power and the Street
Lighting categories of consumers (see Table 15.9).
 15.11

TABLE 15.10
JPSCo- AVERAGE NO: CUSTOMERS, KWH USED, RATES CHARGED 2005 - 2009
% Change
UNITS 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

RESIDENTIAL - Rate 10
Customers 494 935 505 261 515 886 523 728 520 591 1.5 -0.6
Kwh used 000/KWH 2 237.0 2 165.7 2 084.0 1 970.8 2 097.4 -5.4 6.4
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 472.9 1 691.3 1 877.9 2 422.9 2 437.1 29.0 0.6

GENERAL SERVICE - Rate 20

Customers 55 866 57 397 59 221 60 530.0 60 137 2.2 -0.6
Kwh used 000/KWH 11 250.3 11 227.1 11 136.6 10 754.4 11 141.8 -3.5 3.7
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 493.9 1 738.3 1 924.3 2 524.8 2 489.6 31.2 -1.4

POWER SERVICE - Rate 40

Customers 1 480 1 502 1 531 1 554 1 558 1.5 0.3
Kwh used 000/KWH 495.9 506.3 503.9 488.8 490.7 -3 0.4
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 157.3 1 394.3 1 527 2 134.1 1 947.8 39.8 -8.7

LARGE POWER - Rate 50

Customers 93 102 113 126 131 11.5 4
Kwh used 000/KWH 4 896 4 952.3 5 025.3 4 705.7 4 553.6 -6.4 -3.2
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 029.6 1 274.4 1 388.3 1 949.1 1 775.8 40.4 -8.9

OTHER GENERATING COMPANIES

Customers 3 3 3 0 3 0 0
Kwh used 000/KWH 6 551.7 7 953.5 8 062.0 9 203.2 9 485.2 14.2 3.1
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 088.1 886.2 1 131.3 1 579.6 1 684.7 39.6 6.7

STREET LIGHTING - Rate 60

Customers 198 203 205 198 218 -3.4 10.1
Kwh used 000/KWH 326.4 323.8 323.9 351.3 322.8 8.5 -8.1
Rate charged Cents/kWh 1 549.9 1 840.9 1 965 2 627.3 2 528.4 33 -3.8

Total # of Customers 552 575 564 467 576 959 586 138 582 663 1.6 -0.6

Customers are represented as a 12 month

average

p - preliminary
Source: JPSCo.

Average Consumption and Average Charges a c c e s s . A f o r ma l s u b m i s s i o n w a s m a d e t o t h e

The JPSCo’s bona fide customer base declined by 0.6 per cent
in 2009 to 582 663 (Table 15.10). This was due to 3 137 and 393
fewer Residential and General Service customers, respectively,
which outweighed the combined increase of 29 in the remaining
categories. The reduced numbers may be attributed to accounts
becoming inactive. There were increases in the average
consumption for most consumer categories. Reduced rates were
charged for most consumer categories, reflecting the relatively
lower adjustments. The downturn in international oil prices
positively impacted the fuel portion of the bill as the associated
pass through effect was lessened. The non-fuel rate was adjusted
upwards in June by an average of 3.0 per cent compared with 5.74
per cent in 2008.
WATER
Policies and Programmes
Activities in the water subindustry sector continued to be
guided by the Water Sector Policy Strategies and Action Plan
2004, which aims to provide universal access to potable water by
2015. Work also continued on the Rural Water Master Plan, which
is associated with the Policy and geared at ensuring universal
Inter-American Development Bank seeking grant funding to
conclude the Master Plan as well as review the Water Sector
Policy.
Among the water supply projects completed in 2009
were: Enfield/Galliwasp, Hunts Town/Wellington and
Harrison Town in St. Mary; Buxton Town, Watermount and
Duxes/Point Hill in St. Catherine; Dublin Castle in St.
Andrew; Fruitful Vale in Portland; and Darliston in
Westmoreland (Table 15.11). In addition, work continued
Kingston Metropolitan Area (KMA) Water Supply Project;
the Broadgate Water Supply Scheme (WSS) in St. Mary;
Cascade WSS in St. Ann; Colbeck/Planters and Johns Groin
WSS in St. Catherine; James Hill WSS in Clarendon;
Bottom Coffee Grove WSS in Manchester; and the
Catadupa WSS in St. James.
PERFORMANCE
Water Production
T h e N a t i o n a l Wa t e r C o m m i s s i o n p r o d u c e d
approximately 299 294.0 megalitres of water compared with
292 994.5 megalitres in 2008 The higher level of production,
which occurred despite the prevailing drought conditions
 15.12

TABLE 15.11
WATER PROJECTS
PROJECTS OBJECTIVES/DESCRIPTION STATUS EXPENDITURE TO DECEMBER,
2009
Enfield / Galliwasp Water Supply The construction of intake Completed and system handed over to Approximately $14.7 million
Scheme, St. Mary chlorination facility and installation of NWC.
pipeline for Top Enfield / Galliwasp
service area.

Buxton Town Water Supply Scheme,
St. Catherine
The development of the Wakefield # 1 Completed and handed over to the Approximately $17.6 million
Well to improve water supply in the NWC.
Buxton Town and Back Lands area
and its environs as well as extension to
Linstead.

West Central St. Catherine Segment 1 Carrying out minor source
and 2 Water Supply Scheme improvements and pipelaying
activities in two segments
Fruitful Vale Water Supply Scheme To improve the water supply in
Fruitful Vale.
Sement 1 (Watermount, Ginger Ridge) Approximately $53.4 million
and Duxes / Point Hill, Bluehole /
Belfield / Marlie Hill under Segment 2
were completed and handed over to
the Parish Council. Other areas are
substantially complete at between 80 -
95 per cent.
Completed and commissioning and Aprroximately $33.4million
handing over slated for March 2010

Dublin Castle Water Supply Scheme To improve water supply in the Dublin Completed and is being operated by Approximately $0.9 million
Castle and Taylor Hill area to serve a the community.
population of appproxiamtely 400
persons.

Darliston Water Supply Distribution The installation of distribution lines to The project was completed and handed Approximately $78.4 million
System adequately distribute water produced over to teh NWC.
by the Roaring River / Darliston
Treatment Plant to serve the areas of
Darliston and its environs.

KMA Water Supply Project
To improve service standards and
meet the increased water demand in
South East St. Catherine and Greater
Spanish Town. The project involves
the rehabilitation of the water supply
facilities, including pipeline
replacement, refurbishing of water
treatment
Phase 2 of the project, which involved Approximately $0.7 billion
the development of new water sources
for teh Greater spanish Town area
commenced in March 2009 and at the
end of December was 45.0 per cent
complete. Phase 1 of the project,
which involved rehabilitation works
on all

Source: Compiled from information provided by the Ministry of Water & Housing, NWC and Rural Water Supply Limited

during the latter part of the year, resulted from an increase of 3.3
per cent in production in Other Parishes, which reached 218 786.3
megalitres (Table 15.12).
The performance in the Other Parishes may be due to the
following:
– rehabilitation works in Spanish Town which is part of a
KMA Water Supply Project;
– less severe drought conditions in some parishes, for ex-
ample St. Mary;
– build up of surface source in St. Ann, resulting from rains
in the latter part of 2008;
– improvement in the method of estimation of two sources
in rains in Hanover in the January – March 2009 quarter,
coupled with the upgrading of the Shettlewood Water
Supply Project; and
– correction to electrical problems experienced in
Trelawny in January – March quarter of 2008.
For Kingston, St. Andrew & St. Thomas, the prevailing
drought conditions especially in the latter part of the year
played a key role in the decline in production.
An estimated 92 697.8 megalitres of water was
consumed 327.1 megalitres less than in 2008. This was due
to the reduction in consumption in Kingston, St. Andrew &
St. Thomas, which outweighed the 2.7 per cent increase in
Other Parishes (see Table 15.12). The lower consumption in
Kingston, St. Andrew & St. Thomas may be attributed to the
drought conditions that prevailed in the second half of the
year, which resulted in the introduction of water restrictions.
N o n - r e v e n u e w a t e r ( N RW ) 1 8 a c c o u n t e d f o r
approximately 69.1 per cent of amount produced, an
increase over the 68.2 per cent in 2008. For 2009,
approximately 58.5 per cent of water produced in Kingston,
St. Andrew & St. Thomas was NRW compared with 56.5 per

18 The difference between production and billed consumption is referred to as non-revenue water. This includes loss as a result of theft,
leakage and underestimated consumption.
 15.13

TABLE 15.12
DATA ON DOMESTIC WATER, 2005 - 2009

2005r 2006r 2007 2008r 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

Amount of Water Produced (Megalitres.) 296 454.1 294 384.0 292 320.1 292 994.5 299 294.0 0.2 2.2
Kingston/St Andrew/St. Thomas 79 995.3 74 207.0 84 754.7 81 109.5 80 507.7 -4.3 -0.7
Other Parishes 216 458.8 220 177.0 207 574.4 211 885.0 218 786.3 -2.1 3.3

CONSUMPTION* (Megalitres.) 94 415.7 95 318.0 99 816.2 93 024.9 92 697.8 -6.8 -0.4

Kingston/St. Andrew/St. Thomas 33 959.4 33 182.0 36 343.5 35 280.4 33 421.5 -2.9 -5.3
Other Parishes 60 456.3 62 136.0 63 472.7 57 744.5 59 276.3 -9.0 2.7

NO. OF CONNECTIONS 401 265 418 344.0 428 813 437 280 416 888 2.0 -4.7
Kingston/St. Andrew/St. Thomas 99 484 100 496 119 920 120 841 115 614 0.9 -4.4
Other Parishes 301 781 317 851 308 893 316 339 301 274 2.4 -4.8

Revenue ($M) 9 526.6 9 339.0 9 582.0 12 978.1 15 003.6 35.4 15.6

Kingston/St. Andrew/St. Thomas 3 248.8 3 600.5 3 739.7 5 286.2 5 931.5 41.4 12.2
Other Parishes 5 187.4 5 738.5 5 842.3 7 691.8 9 072.1 31.7 17.9

r - revised
p - preliminary
Source: National Water Commission

cent in 2008. However, the ratio of NRW remained unchanged in
Other Parishes at 73.0 per cent. Previous overall increases in
NRW were 65.9 per cent in 2007, 67.6 per cent in 2006 and 68.2
per cent in 2005. The increasing trend in the ratio of NRW
occurred despite this being considered a priority area for the
NWC, and as such measures targeting this problem continued to
be one of the key components of the projects being pursued. These
include: the replacing of aged pipelines; installing of technology
to detect and reduce leaks; and the implementation of devices to
stem over-flow from tanks are ongoing. District metering Areas
are being established to monitor usage and track water that is not
being paid for.
The number of connections to the NWC system totalled
416 888 compared with 437 280 in 2008. The contraction in the
numbers reflected respective declines of 4.4 per cent and 4.8 per
cent in Kingston, St. Andrew & St. Thomas and Other
Parishes (see Table 15.12).
The NWC revenues amounted to $15 003.6 million
compared with $12 978.1.million in 2008. Revenues for
Kingston & St. Andrew and St. Thomas were some $645.0
million higher, to reach $5 931.5 million. Revenues for
Other Parishes expanded by $1 380.3 million to $9 072.1
million, respectively (see Table 15.12). The growth in
revenue may be attributed to the Annual Price Adjustment
Mechanism.
UTILITY REGULATION
The Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR), consistent
with its mandate, undertook several activities related to

70

69

68
Per cent

67

66

65
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Years
FIGURE 15B: NON-REVENUE WATER AS A PER CENT OF TOTAL PRODUCTION, 2000 - 2009
 15.14
utilities in 2009. In the area of Electricity, routine activities
attended to during the year included: continued monitoring of
licences holders as well as the processing and recommendation of
licence for small private generators; review of power purchase
arrangements; investigation of various fuel options and providing
policy advice on a range of electricity matters. Work included:
Standard Offer Contract (SOC) for Net Billing – This is being
prepared in order to assist the country in meeting its renewable
energy supply targets. Under the contract small electricity
generators will be provided with a standard pricing regime,
thereby giving certainty to the process as well as enhancing the
timeliness between application and approval.
Least Cost Expansion Plan – This study is ongoing and
interim reports are being analysed.
JPSCo Price Cap Review – A determination on the five-year
tariff regime for JPSCO was issued in September 2009 and
became effective in October 2009. The OUR will continue to
monitor the fuel rate and issue quarterly reports.
With regard to Water Supplies, the activities of the OUR
involved ongoing monitoring of the NWC’s financial and
operational reports – including the Price Adjustment Mechanism
(PAM) and the “K” factor reports. In addition, the Office engaged
in activities that resulted in the annual adjustment of the NWC
tariff. Other unplanned activities included the development of
templates of the NWC’s Operational reports to assist in the
development of Relational Database Management.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
Public Sector Energy Efficiency Programme
In August 2009, the government and the IDB signed a
Technical Assistance (TA) agreement for the complete assessment
of the energy consumption patterns and costs in the public sector
with a view to improve efficiencies. This TA will result in a
comprehensive investment package for public sector energy
efficiency improvement. In August 2009, the Ministry engaged
the services of a Project Manager to ensure the successful
completion of this TA.
Refinery Upgrade
Work continued on the Refinery Upgrade Project. The Front
Feed Engineering Design (FEED) Phase of the project which was
started in March 2006 was completed. The key deliverables of this
FEED are the basic engineering design for the upgraded refinery
based on selected technology, along with a capital cost estimate.
Also, based on the Environmental Impact Assessment conducted,
the environmental permit for the upgrading of the refinery was
granted in December 2009. Potential markets for all new products
have also been identified and in November 2009 approval was
obtained to negotiate to secure financing for the project. On
completion, the expanded facility is expected to result in the
production of cleaner fuels through a modernized facility;
improvement in the plant’s efficiency as well as increasing the
refinery’s production capacity from the current 35 000 bpd
to 50 000 bpd, while simultaneously reducing the
proportion of capacity dedicated to the production of heavier
fuel.
Oil and Gas Exploration
Activities regarding oil and gas exploration continued in
2009. The PCJ through CGGS Veritas (formerly Wavefield)
conducted seismic data. These were processed and a
contract granted for the interpretation of the data. The
results provided a new body of data pointing to prospects,
particularly in the deeper water in the eastern side of the
island’s maritime space. Also, during the year, three
Technical Advisory Committee Meetings were held with
Finder Joint Venture (August 26, 2009), Rainville Energy of
Calgary, Canada (September 14, 2009) and Proteam Group
Limited (December 16, 2009) as required under the
production sharing agreements with these companies.
Meetings to discuss arrangements for a Formal Bid round
were convened and consultants engaged to plan a
“Supplemental Report on the Realization of the
Hydrocarbon Potential of Jamaica”. The report to be sold for
US$15 000 is mandatory for companies interested in
bidding for the nineteen available offshore and four onshore
blocks.
OUTLOOK
Growth is expected in the Electricity & Water Supply
industry in 2010. This higher value added is predicated on
higher electricity generation and water production.
Increased electricity generation is predicated on an expected
recovery in the economic activities, especially in the second
half of the year, which should bolster demand.
Correspondingly, supply will be boosted by the expansion in
wind capacity. In the area of water production, a number of
water supply projects slated to come on stream in 2010
should result in increase production.
Developments in the industry which may serve to
dampen growth include fundamentals in the international
petroleum market. The West Texas Intermediate, the price to
which local prices are linked, is forecasted to reach
US$79.78 in 2010 compared with US$61.66 in 2009.
Continued increase in prices will result in higher electricity
cost. To counter the associated pass through effect,
consumers may engage in increase conservation practices, a
situation which may be further heightened by the
introduction of GCT on monthly consumption of over 200
kWh in March 2010. In addition, the prevailing drought
conditions, if unabated, should result in reduced water
production.n
CHAPTER 16
TRANSPORT, STORAGE &
COMMUNICATION
INTRODUCTION
R eal value added for the Trans port, Stor age &
Communication indus try declined by 4.4 per cent in
2009. This perfor mance was largely attrib uted to reduction in
Transport & Storage segment of the in dus try, due mainly to re-
duced activ ities at the island’s sea and air ports, consequent on
the impact of the global economic recession. This fallout out-
weighed growth in the Communication segment of the industry.
The indicators for the Transport & Storage subindustry
showed:
— the vol ume of do mes tic cargo han dled at the is -
lands ports de clin ing from 20 161 thou sand
tonnes to 14 503 thousand tonnes;
— ship calls to ports declining by 5.3 per cent to 3 397;
— passenger movements at the island’s international air-
ports at 4 850 463, a decline of 5.1 per cent; and
— the number of vehicles certified fit to operate on the is-
land’s road falling by 6.8 per cent to 388 211.
In the area of telecommunications, the number of fixed lines
fell by 4.5.per cent to 302 336. At the end of December 2009, the
number of mobile subscribers was approximately 3.0 million
relative to 2.7 million in December 2008. Teledensity1 registered
119/100 population, with mobile penetration being 107.8 per cent.
TRANSPORTATION
Policy Framework
During 2009, the National Transport Policy continued to focus
on:
— ensuring a safe public passenger bus service;
— regulating the taxi service;
— regulating vehicle weights:
— creating a multi-modal transportation system:
— ncreasing volumes of scheduled air services to coun-
tries by liberalizing the air services agreements; and
— encouraging the expansion of trans-shipment and de-
velopment of docking facilities.
1 Teledensity refers to the total number of telephone lines (mobile and fixed) per 100 population.
2 This is part of the North South Link ( Spanish Town to Ocho Rios),and comprises Spanish Town to Bog Walk, Bog Walk to Linstead,
Linstead to Moneague, Moneague to Golden Grove and Golden Grove to Ocho Rios.
These are consistent with the priority outcome of the
Transport Sector Plan – the development of strong economic
infrastructure – one of 15 national outcomes of Vision 2030
Jamaica – National Development Plan (NDP). The
following were undertaken in 2009 to give effect to the
National Outcome.
Road Maintenance Master Plan (RMMP) – Approval
for adoption and implementation of the Plan was granted by
Cabinet, with instructions to include farm, estate and
sub-division roads. The RMMP outlines the investment
priorities in the road sector over a 10-year period. The Plan
indicates the activities and cost required for carrying out
routine and periodic maintenance on the main and parochial
roads. With the adoption of the Master Plan a further Euro
2.2 million will be made available by the European Union
for budgetary support. Already, Euro 2.5 million in the first
and second instance and Euro 9.9 million in the third have
been earmarked for the project.
Single Road Authority (SRA) – A Position paper on the
creation of SRA was prepared for consultation with key
stake holders on the most suitable design for the Authority.
The SRA will be the entity responsible for monitoring and
evaluating the implementation of the Road Sector Policy and
the RMMP as well as the broader development of the road
network and infrastructure.
Drainage Master Plan – This is being developed to
assist in guiding government in undertaking flood
mitigation measures.
Infrastructure Development
Approximately $5.1 billion was expended on
infrastructure and works by the Ministry of Transport &
Works, compared with $4.2 billion in 2008. The 2009
expenditure was used to continue work on the Northern
Jamaica Development Programme, the Bogue
Rehabilitation Project and Emergency Road Repairs. Some
other infrastructure works that were facilitated included:
Highway 2000 Project – work continued on the Mount
Rosser leg (Linstead to Moneague)2 of the highway in
anticipation of an October 2010 completion date.
Approximately 70.0 per cent of work was completed at a
 16.2
cost of $2 180.7 million. Financing for the Sandy Bay leg3 (Sandy
Bay to Williamsfield) of the Highway was concluded with four
multilateral institutions – Inter American Development Bank,
International Cooperation, Propoarco, and European Investment
Bank. Work is expected to begin once an agreement is reached
regarding contracting arrangement with the executing agency.
Washington Boulevard Improvement Project – the project is
funded by the government and the Caribbean Development Bank.
In October 2009, a contract for approximately $1.3 billion was
signed. This project is expected to: 1) improve traffic volume
capacity resulting in reduced congestion along the corridor; 2)
improve safety; 3) reduce travel time and overall road/ vehicle
operating cost; and 4) assist in the establishment of a vehicle
weight enforcement programme. Work, which involved the
widening of 2.75 kilometres of roadway along Washington
Boulevard and Dunrobin Avenue, started on February 16, 2010
and is slated for completion within 16 months.
PROGRAMMES AND PERFORMANCE
1. Land Transport
Traffic Management
Strategies employed to deal with traffic management in 2009
were aimed at:
— Improved capacity – this involved the expansion, im-
provement and rehabilitation of the of road network
and included such projects as Segment 3 (Ocho Rios to
Port Antonio) of the North Coast Highway, The Mount
Rosser bypass of Highway 2000, the Bogue Road and
the Waterloo Road Widening Project;
— Improved efficiency – through:
¯ the establishment of a Traffic Management Centre –
work was completed on the Montego Bay Traffic
Management System and it was commissioned into
service in November 2009;
¯ Coordinated Traffic Signals – 29 traffic lights were
installed at five locations islandwide; and
¯ Transport Management Planning – corridor inter-
section design studies were carried out for several
locations.
¯ Improved safety – this involved road markings,
traffic signs, pedestrian facilities and periodic and
routine maintenance
Road Safety
The budgetary allocation for road safety was $14.8 million for
Fiscal year 2009/2010. Various road safety education programmes
geared towards specific road users continued during 2009. These
included: 1) Children Against Reckless Driving (CARD); 2)
Drive for Life; 3) Child Safety; 4) Walk Good; 5) Road Signs; 6)
Road Scholars; and 7) Hearing Impaired. In addition, consistent
with Global Road Safety Strategy there were increased efforts to
develop contemporary safety materials addressing the following
issues:
3 This is part of the East West Link (Kingston to Williamsfield) which comprises Portmore to Kingston, Mandela to Bushy Park,
Bushy Park to Sandy Bay and Sandy Bay to Williamsfield.
4 Data for previous years were for Fiscal year rather than calendar year.
— Distractions in the traffic environment
— Elderly in the traffic environment
— Motorcyclist safety;
— Tyre safety; and
— Pedestrian safety.
Through the Operation Fit Vehicle Programme, a
number of defective vehicles were removed from the traffic
environment.
A total of 388 211 vehicles4 were certified fit to operate
on the island’s roadway by the Island Traffic Authority
compared with 416 383 in 2008. Mirroring the movements
in the total, all categories recorded declines relative to 2008.
The data for 2009 were disaggregated as follows:
— Motor cars – 211 142 compared with 224 520;
— Trucks/Tractors & Buses – 170 789 relative to
183 125;
— Motor Cycle – 4 528 compared with 6 249; and
— Trailers – 1 743 relative to 2 489.
Passenger Movement & Transit
Public Buses
Activities to support the effectiveness of the public bus
system in 2009 included:
— the continuation of work on the Downtown
Transportation Centre, which is scheduled to be-
gin operation in February 2010;
— the commencement of an exercise to find suitable
contractors to establish a franchise system in the
Kingston Met ro pol itan Trans port Re gion
(KMTR). This franchise would provide trans-
port services on a number of routes for a licencing
period of one year and five years; and
— the addition of 100 buses, in an attempt to bolster
the existing Jamaica Urban Transit company
(JUTC) fleet, with the intent to procure a further
100 in 2010.
During the year, the JUTC operated on 82 regular and
express routes, 21 premium routes, three special routes for
persons with disabilities well as charter services. The
servicing of these routes was facilitated by 266 buses
providing a seating capacity of 12 053. The average number
of buses operated per month by JUTC in the KMTR was 284
compared with 283 in 2008. This out-turn resulted from the
boost of 100 new buses, which replaced those which were
withdrawn for rehabilitation, and were not returned due to
the unavailability of spare parts. The provision of transport
services by the JUTC was complemented by other operators,
including:
— JUTC sublicencees - 327 buses with seating ca-
pacity 3 837;
 16.3

— Rural Stage Carriage with routes terminating in the
KMTR - 873 with a seating capacity 18 333; and
— Express Carriage – 7 with seating capacity 371.
The buses operating legally in the KMTR provided a seating
capacity of 61 738. This represented 10.1 per cent of the number
of seats needed, thereby resulting in an estimated seating deficit of
549 265.
The number of JUTC Passenger Trips increased by 347 696 to
50 546 070. Fare income, at $1.9 billion was $2.6 million below
that of 2009. This decline, however, represented a slowing in the
rate of decline observed over the past two years. Revenue from
Charter Trips went up by 8.3 per cent to $74.0 million, a
turnaround relative to the 36.6 per cent decline recorded in 2008.
With the exception of 2007, when revenues from Charter Trips
were boosted by income associated with Cricket World Cup 2007,
the year’s revenue has been the highest since the start of the
service.
Approximately 63 259 new Smart Cards5 were issued
compared with 88 002 in 2008. The higher number in 2008 must
be viewed against the background of the opening of the Half Way
Tree Transport Centre, which: 1) made it easier for passengers to
acquire and recharge smart cards; 2) made it more convenient to
use smart cards6. The mandatory use of cards on Premium and
Express buses also impacted the numbers in 2008. Revenue from
Smart Cards was $410.0 million compared with $305.6 million in
2008. This represented 21.1 per cent of total fare income, 5.4
percentage points higher than in 2008. The cost recovery ratio was
52.0 per cent, improving on the 48.0 per cent attained in 2008.
A total of 321 buses with a total capacity of 4 815 passengers
operated in the Montego Bay Metropolitan Region (MMR). Of
this number, the Montego Bay Metro, the public bus company
operating in the MMR operated at least eight buses on three routes
transporting an average of 2 600 passengers per day, an increase of
2.2 per cent relative to 2008. These buses operated as a municipal
service as well as contract service to schools.
Licences - Public Passenger Services
The total number of licence applications7 received by
the island’s Transport Authority was 22 903 compared
with 21 131 in 2008. The number of licences issued by the
Authority was 19 948 compared with 19 074 in 2008,
reflecting increases in the Route Taxis and Contract Carriage
categories (Table 16.1).
Fare increases of 20.0 per cent were approved for Route
Taxis, Hackney Carriage and Rural Stage Carriage in
December 2009 to be implemented in January 2010. The
base fare for Route taxis increased to $66.00 and $3.60 per
kilometre. Fares for Hackney carriages were increased to
$187.50 and variable kilometre charge increased to $37.50.
For Rural Stage carriage, the fares moved to $26.40 (base)
from $22.00 and rate per kilometre moved to $3.40 from
$2.83.
Rail System
Rail transport is a key component of the Government’s
plan for a multi-modal public passenger transport system.
During the year, discussions continued with Chinese
investors to facilitate a private-public partnership for
revitalization of the Rail Service. In February 2009, a
memorandum of understanding was signed with a Chinese
contractor to begin studies to determine the economic, social
and environmental feasibility of a railway system. This
followed a formal request made to the Chinese government
in December 2008 for funding to construct the railway if
found to be feasible.
2. Maritime Transportation
Activities within the maritime industry were centred
around the development of a framework for the
establishment of Jamaica as a shipping centre providing
services inclusive of bunkering, chandlering, dry-docking
and other technical services, crewing, e-registration,
insurance and finance. The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ)
commenced work on the new cruise pier at Falmouth in
Trelawny. The new pier, which is being built to

TABLE 16.1
TAXI SERVICE: LICENCE ISSUED, 2005 - 2009
% Change
Licence Type 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

Route Taxi 11 970 13 993 13 597 12 547 14 373 -7.7 14.6

Hackney Carriage 1560 1 668 1 338 2 161 1 490 61.5 -31.1
Contract Carriage 2 446 3 297 2 663 2 761 3 041 3.7 10.1
Rural Stage Carriage 564 907 1 175 1 605 1 044 36.6 -35.0
TOTAL 16 540 19 865 18 773 19 074 19 948 1.6 4.6

p - preliminary

Source: Transport Authority

5 The Smart Card is a cashless fare collection system launched in December 2002 for the Kingston Metropolitan Transport Region
(KMTR).
6 Passengers without smart cards have to join a line to acquire tickets due to the strict observance of the cashless system in the Centre.
7 This total refers to the categories surveyed as indicated in Table 16.1. The figures for Public and Private Carriers are not included.
 16.4

accommodate the new class of mega liners (with a capacity of
some 6 000 passengers and over 2 000 crew members) consists of:
— a seaside development to include pier, customs, immi-
gration and related facilities; and
— a landside development to include shops, restaurants,
art & craft, in-bond offerings as well as housing.
The pier which will be able to host two vessels at a time is
scheduled for completion in November 2010.
During 2009, the downturn in the international shipping
industry caused by the global recession negatively impacted trade
and by extension shipping activities at international ports.
Consequently, the number of ships visiting the island’s ports fell
by 5.3 per cent to 3 397 (Table 16.2). This reduction reflected a
decline of 268 ship calls to the Outports, driven mainly by reduced
activities at the bauxite/alumina ports8. Activity level at the cruise
shipping ports also declined, despite the diversion of vessels to
Jamaica from countries which were severely affected by the H1N1
influenza virus. The overall decline was partly offset by an
increase of 79 ship calls to the Port of Kingston, reflecting
increased vessel visits to the Kingston Container Terminal, which
outweighed the decline at the Kingston Wharves.
Consistent with the fall off in ship calls and reflecting the
continued impact of the global recession on trading, the volume of
cargo handled at All Ports contracted from the 20 161 thousand
tonnes in 2008 to 14 503 thousand tonnes (see Table 16.2). This
out-turn was influenced by reduced activities at the Outports as
activities at the Port of Kingston increased. The 0.7 per cent
increase at the Port of Kingston was due to 3.5 per cent expansion
TABLE 16.2
PORTS: SHIP TRAFFIC & CARGO FLOW, 2005 - 2009
in trans-shipment cargo handled at the Kingston Container
Terminal.
At the Outports, the volume of cargo handled decreased
from 13 963 thousand tonnes to 8 784 thousand tonnes and
reflected declines of 38.0 per cent and 36.7 per cent in
imports and exports to 2 616 thousand tonnes and 6 168
thousand tonnes, respectively (see Table 16.2). Cargo
handling activities at the Outports were affected mainly by
the contraction in bauxite and alumina exports. With the
exception of Rocky Point9, where alumina exports increased
by 24.3 per cent to 1 393 thousand tonnes, all
bauxite/alumina ports experienced sharp declines in
alumina exports. Exports of alumina from Port Esquivel and
Port Kaiser declined by 67.4 per cent to 461 thousand tonnes
and 83.3 per cent to 281 thousand tonnes, respectively.
Concurrently, bauxite export from Port Rhoades fell by 27.5
per cent to 3 853 thousand tonnes.
As a consequence, the total volume of cargo handled
(inclusive of petroleum products) was 25 001 thousand
tonnes compared with 30 305 thousand tonnes (see Table
16.2). This was due to contractions in the volume of
domestic cargo as well as petroleum products handled as
trans-shipment activities recorded growth.
3. Air Transportation
Work on Phase 2 of the Capital Development
Programme10 at the Sangster International Airport (SIA),
which involved the expansion and renovation of the existing
terminal was completed and commissioned into service in
April 2009. The programme brought significant

% Change
2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008
KINGSTON
No. of Vessel Visits 2 591 2 858 2 654 2 455 2 534 -7.5 3.2
Volume of Cargo ('000 tonnes) a 12 161 14 947 14 787 13 608 13 702 -8 0.7

- Domestic a 3 099 3 514 3 657 3 464 3 204 -5.3 -7.5

- Petroleum Product 2 359 2 884 3 008 2 733 2 515 -9.1 -8
- Transhipment 9 062 11 433 11 130 10 144 10 498 -8.9 3.5

OUTPORTS
No. of Vessel Visits 1 176 1 205 1 104 1 132 864 2.5 -23.7
Volume of Cargo ('000 tonnes) 13 166 13 880 13 628 13 963 8 784 2.5 -37.1
- Landed 3 777 3 995 4 084 4 222 2 616 3.4 -38.0
- Loaded 9 389 9 885 9 544 9 741 6 168 2.1 -36.7

TOTAL - ALL PORTS

No. of Vessel Visits 3 767 4 063 3 758 3 586 3 397 -4.6 -5.3
Volume of Domestic Cargo ('000 tonnes) 18 624 20 278 20 293 20 160 14 503 -0.6 -28.1
Volume of Total Cargo ('000 tonnes) 27 686 31 711 31 423 30 305 25 001 -3.6 -17.5

a excludes petroleum products

p - preliminary
Source: Ports Authority of Jamaica

8 Two of three alumina plants closed in 2009.

9 Higher levels of activity at the Rocky Point port resulted from increased alumina exports from the Jamalco plant, the only plant in
operation for the entire year.
10 This was the final phase of the three-phase Capital Development Programme (1A, 1B, and 2) which started in January 2007
 16.5

TABLE 16.3
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS: MOVEMENTS OF AIRCRAFT, PASSENGERS, CARGO AND MAIL,
2008 - 2009
2008r 2009p % Change
N.M.I.A S.I.A TOTAL N.M.I.A S.I.A TOTAL 2008/2007 2009/2008

Arrivals 827 621 1 610 773 2 438 394 773 929 1 574 380 2 348 309 -11.8 -3.7
Departing 862 954 1 625 388 2 488 342 801 175 1 591 456 2 392 631 -0.6 -3.8
Intransit 20 167 163 957 184 124 17 189 92 388 109 577 -21.1 -40.5
Total Passengers 1 710 742 3 400 118 5 110 860 1 592 293 3 258 224 4 850 517 -1.7 -5.1

Aircraft Movement 24 705 41 195 65 900 22 201 37 495 59 696 -4.9 -9.4

Cargo (Kilograms) 14 594 061 5 931 840 20 525 901 10 678 654 4 490 945 15 169 599 0.4 -26.1

Mail (Kilograms) 2 150 945 0 2 150 945 1 739 533 0 1 739 533 -7.4 -19.1

r - revised
p - provisional
Source: Airports Authority of Jamaica

improvement to the facilities and passenger facilitation processes
at the airport. An Airport Master Plan was developed during 2009.
The document which is currently being reviewed will inform
future development works.
Work continued on the NMIA three phased (1A, 1B and 2)
20–year Capital Development Programme. Phase 1B, which
started in 2009 and will continue to 2014. This involved the
development of specified cargo, airfield apron airside, airside
terminal and landside facilities. Work on Phase 1A which began
in 2004, though advanced in 2008 with the opening of the new
departures lounge, will continue into 2010 – 2011. The remaining
projects under this phase involved the reconfiguration of the
previous departure lounge and concession space to provide:
— an intransit lounge as well as offices for immigration,
security and airport administration; and
— an incoming duty free facility, a tour bus connection
area, a covered east-west walkway and an arrivals fore-
court with appropriate light, canopies and seats.
The government-appointed Enterprise Team to oversee the
privatization of NMIA was put in place and increased activities is
anticipated in 2010.
Aircraft movements at the island’s international airports fell
by 9.4 per cent to 59 696, due to, among other things, the
continuing impact of the global economic crisis, which forced
airlines to restructure their operations. Among them was Air
Jamaica, which ceased operation on six routes, while Spirit
Airlines reduced the number of flights to Jamaica. These flight
reductions outweighed increased flights associated with the
introduction of new airlines, including Jet Blue, Air Italy and Air
Europe as well as passenger traffic. However, this as well as the
diversion of some flights from other countries more affected by
the H1N1 Virus tempered the decline in passenger traffic.
Consequently, the total passenger movements11 at the island’s
international airports fell 5.1 per cent below the 5 110 860 in 2008.
The out-turn was reflective of fewer number of passengers:
— Arriving – down 3.7 per cent to 2 348 309;
— Departing – down 3.8 per cent to 2 392 463; and
— Intransit – down 40.5 per cent to 109 577 (Table
16.3).
The decline in passenger traffic was consistent with the
reduced activities at both international airports. At the
NMIA there was a 6.9 per cent decline in passenger
movement to 1 592 293. This was due to decreases in all
passenger categories recording declines of 6.5 per cent, 7.2
per cent and 14.8 per cent in Arriving and Departing and
Intransit categories, respectively. Passenger traffic at the
NMIA was impacted mainly by the route cuts implemented
by the national airline, due to the ongoing restructuring
activities as well as the impact of the global downturn.
Passenger movement at the SIA fell by 4.2 per cent to
3 258 224, following declines of 2.3 per cent in
arriving passengers; 2.1 per cent in departing passengers;
and 43.6 per cent in intransit passengers.
Air Jamaica
At the beginning of the year, Air Jamaica operated on 16
routes, 5 fewer than 2008. However, operations on five of
these routes – Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Grand Cayman,
and the Eastern Caribbean/ New York – terminated in
February 2009. Consequently, the fleet of aircraft was
reduced to nine – one A321, seven A320 and one A319 –
from 14 in 2008. Despite the higher passenger load factor of
74.0 per cent compared with 68.0 per cent in 2008, the
airline’s basic operating data showed declines in most areas
of operations. Available seat miles at 1 859 million were
34.3 per cent lower than in 2008. Revenue passenger miles
fell by 27.6 per cent to 1 362 million, while revenue
passengers declined by 23.9 per cent to 1 130 thousand
persons. The reduced numbers reflect the continued
negative impact of the global recession on travel. The higher

11 This represents data supplied by the airlines (Airport Authority) and include crew members, who are not included in the stopover
arrivals data published by the Jamaica Tourist Board.
 16.6

TABLE 16.4
AIR JAMAICA: BASIC OPERATING DATA, 2005 - 2009

UNITS 2005 2006 2007 2008r 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

Avaliable Seats Miles (ASM) Million 3 511 3 776 3 669 2 829 1 859 -22.9 -34.3
Revenue Passenger (RPM) Million 2 395 2 428 2 480 1 881 1 362 -24.2 -27.6
Revenue Passenger Thousand 1 574 1 614 1 697 1 484 1 130 -12.6 -23.9
Passenger Load factor % 68 64 68 68 74 0.0 8
Available Ton Miles (ATM) Million na na na n/a n/a - -
Revenue US$ Million 388.6 416.2 439.0 351.0 257.0 -20.0 -26.8
Passenger 342.0 320.3 331.0 299.0 207.0 -9.7 -30.8
Cargo 17.8 17.8 15.0 15.0 9.0 0.0 -40
Other 28.8 78.1 93.0 37.0 41.0 -60.0 10.8

r - revised
na - not available
Source: Air Jamaica

passenger load factor may be attributed to the fall off in the number
of aircrafts. The company’s total operating revenue was US$257
million compared with US$351.0 million in 2008. The decline
reflected lower revenue intake from all revenue categories, with
revenue from passengers falling by US$92.0 million to US$207.0
million (Table 16.4).
The divestment process continued during the year in response
to a wider issue of Central Government expenditure
rationalization and a redefinition of the role and function of
government.
Aerodromes
industry, particularly at the ports. Data from the Port
Authority showed the volume of domestic cargo handled at
the ports declining by 28.1 per cent to 14 503 million tonnes.
This out-turn was due mainly to the 37.1 per cent drop in
activities at the Outports, brought about by the downturn in
bauxite alumina exports, associated with the global
economic recession. The warehousing space leased by the
Factories Corporation of Jamaica fell from 34 684 square
metres to 28 887.2 square metres, despite relatively lower
rates. The rates per year for 2009 were between US$21.82 –
US$45.72 compared with US$35.64 – US$44.00 per year in
2008.

The movement of tourists, leisure and business passengers COMMUNICATION

continued to be facilitated by the four domestic aerodromes. A
total of 11 204 passengers were facilitated in 2009, with
distribution as follows:
— Tinson Pen – 3 221 compared with 5 036;
— Negril – 5 943 relative to 7 051;
— Boscobel – 1 584 compared with 2 309; and
— Ken Jones – 460 compared with1 098
In addition, work continued at some aerodromes during the
year, including:
Boscobel – the aerodrome is being developed into an
International Port of Entry (IPE) complete with customs,
immigration and aviation security services and increased law
enforcement capabilities. The new facility is scheduled to open in
April 2010, and should facilitate the growth in the general aviation
industry and high end tourism.
Tinson Pen – plans are also underway regarding the
establishment of a Commercial Distribution Centre on lands
currently occupied by the Tinson Pen aerodrome. Consequently,
the facility will be relocated.
STORAGE
The Storage and Warehousing sub-industry, a traditionally
small segment of the Transport, Storage & Communication,
generally reflected the levels of activity in the Goods Producing
Policy Framework
The government introduced the draft Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) Policy in 2009. The new
policy which is aligned with the ICT Sector Plan of Vision
2030 Jamaica – National Development Plan, provided the
framework for the drafting of a new ICT Act. The Policy’s
principles include: a) the recognition of ICT as a
development instrument; b) establishment of universal
service access; c) respect for technology neutrality; and d)
fostering competition. The goals are:
— improved productivity of the national economy;
— increased competition;
— attraction of local and international investments;
and
— support for all sectors.
The policy is intended to set the framework for the
establishment of a modern telecommunications network for
the wide deployment of broadband services islandwide. The
policy is expected to be adopted in 2010.
Performance
There was continued growth in the telecommunications
sub-industry, due partly to the buoyancy in the sector as
demonstrated by the drive to expand and modernize
 16.7

TABLE 16.5A
NUMBER OF TELECOMS GRANTED, 2002-2008
Licences 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Total
Issued
Internet Service Provider (ISP) 12 3 14 2 4 1 1 82
ISP for Subscriber Television Operators (STVO) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7
International Voice Service Provider (IVSP 10 6 5 1 0 0 0 53
Domestic Carrier (DC) 8 8 7 2 3 2 1 42
Domestic Voice Service Provider (DVSP) 8 13 6 2 0 3 1 50
Data Service Provider (DSP) 2 5 1 2 2 0 0 34
Free Trade Zone Carrier (FTZC) 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 11
Free Trade Zone Service Provider (FTZSP) 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 8
International (Voice/Data) Transit (IC) 0 48 20 5 3 2 1 79
International (Voice/Data) Service Provider ( 0 41 21 7 3 2 1 75
INTL.SP)
Total Issued 43 125 74 21 16 10 5 441

Source: Office of Utilities Regulation and Ministry of Mining & Telecommunications

TABLE 16.5B
NUMBER OF TELECOM LICENCE GRANTED, Licences are currently being issued in two broad categories
2009 only (see Table 16.5B). This brought to 446 the total number
of telecommunications licences12. Among the five in 2009
Licence Type Number was the award of a Carrier and Service Provider licence to
Telecomunicaciones Gran Caribe S.A. (TGC) to facilitate
Service Provider 3 installation of a submarine fibre-optic cable in Jamaica to
Carrier 2 enhance bandwidth availability.
Total Isued 5
As at December 2009, the total number of mobile
Source: Department of Information and Telecommunications, Office of the subscribers was estimated at 3.0 million, with a penetration
Prime Minister rate of 107.8 per cent. This compared with 2.7 million in
2008 and a penetration rate of 101.2 per cent. The number of
networks, introduce new services, adopt emerging technologies fixed lines was 302 336 at the end of December 2009, a
and employ a variety of marketing initiatives. decline of 4.5 per cent. Combined, the number of telephone
subscribers was approximated at 3.2 million compared with
A total of five new licences for telecommunication services 3.0 million in 2008 and a teledensity of over 100 per cent
were issued, the same as in 2008 (Table 16.5A and 16.5B). (Table 16.6).

TABLE 16.6
TELEPHONE SUBSCRIBERS by CATEGORIES 2005 - 2009
NUMBER OF LINES

Categories 2005r 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

Fixed Lines 319 000 342 692 369 656 316 591 302 336 -14.4 -4.5
Residential 243 940 272 329 225 784 214 652 -17.1 -4.9
Business 98 752 97 327 90 807 84 684 -6.7 6.7
Mobile Lines 1 981 464 2 274 650 2 684 331 2 723 323 2 909 915 1.5 6.9
Pre-Paid 2 214 289 2 606 106 2 639 077 2 812 997 1.3 6.6
Post-Paid 60 361 78 225 84 246 96 918 7.7 15.0
Total Telephone Subscibers 2 300 464 2 617 342 3 053 987 3 039 914 3 212 251 -0.5 5.7

Teledensity 86.5 97.8 113.8 113.0 119.0 -0.7 5.3

Internet n/a 73 572 96 203 104 219 112 469 8.3 7.9
Narrowband n/a 6 325 3 435 3 080 148 -10.3 -95.2
Broadband 3 400 68 243 92 768 97 732 112 299 5.4 14.9

r - revised
p - preliminary
Source: Office Of Utilities Regulation

12 The subindustry was liberalized in 2000.

 16.8

TABLE 16.7
POST and TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT OPERATING AND FINANCIAL DATA 2005 - 2009
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008/2007 2009/2008

Volume of Mail handled ('000) 66 566 83 747 80 710 78 067 74 052 -3.3 -5.1
Letters (Including Registered) 66 473 83 559 80 529 77 886 73 855 -3.3 -5.2
Parcels 55 71 79 87 92 10.1 5.7
Others 38 70 102 93 104 -8.8 11.8

Finances ($M)
Revenues 771 903 920 1 035 1 004 12.5 -3
Expenditures 1 267 1 116 1 458 1 463 1 712 0.3 17.1
Surplus (Deficits) -496 -213 -538 -427 -708 -20.6 65.8

p - provisional
r - revised
Source: Post & Telecommunications Department

Information Communication Technology (ICT) telecommunications segment industry mainly related to

Project several litigious matters pursued during the year.

Activities related to ICT project, which commenced in 2004 OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

ended in 2009. The project has four components: 1) introducing
E-government; 2) strengthening the then Ministry of Mining &
Telecommunication13; 3) developing human capital in ICT; and 4)
community outreach. Approximately US$5.2 million was
expended on the project in 2009, facilitating work mainly on the
E-Government component. Thirteen community access points
(CAPs) were established island-wide. The project was advanced
in 2009, with the procurement of hardware and software to
facilitate online payment of additional tax types.
Post and Telecommunications Department (PTD)
The Department handled a volume of 74 052 pieces of mail,
relative to 78 067 pieces in 2008. This performance resulted from
declines of 5.2 per cent in the category Letters as the categories
Parcels and Others increased.
Revenues for 2009 declined by 3.0 per cent to $1 004 million,
while expenditure increased by 17.0 per cent to $1 712 million,
resulting in a deficit of $708 million. This represented a
worsening of the deficit, given the deficit of $427.0 million in
2008.
Several activities were undertaken to improve the work of the
Department, including: 1) updating of the internal control system;
2) installing of a fully automated Access Control System at all
access points; and 3) upgrading of the Closed Circuit Television
(CCTV) system.
UTILITY REGULATION
The intervention of the Office of Utilities of Regulation
(OUR) in matters relating to transportation subindustry involved
responding to fare increase applications for the JUTC and
Hackney and Route Taxis. These recommendations were
submitted to the Minister of Transport & Works. Activities in the
The government announced a $13.0 billion road project,
$12.0 billion of which was already secured from several
international agencies, including the Caribbean
Development Bank and the Inter-American Development
Bank. The difference of $1.0 billion will come from the
Road Maintenance Fund, which was recently boosted by the
petrol tax imposed on motorists. The $1.0 billion is slated to
be spent on 10 projects islandwide. Under the programme, a
slate of other infrastructure projects are to be undertaken
In March 2009, a US$500.0 million contract was signed
with Advance Scales and Equipment Limited for the supply
and installation of six weighing scales. The scales are to be
used as part of the effort to contain the damage to the island’s
road caused by overloaded trucks. The project is being
funded through a loan from the Caribbean Development
Bank under Segment 2A of the Northern Coastal Highway
Improvement Programme. The Ministry of Transport &
Works has received two of the six scales – both of which are
portable. The four remaining scales are stationary ones and
will be installed in the vicinity of the Ferry Police Station, St.
Catherine; Harbour View, St. Andrew; Coral Springs,
Trelawny; and Agualta Vale, St. Mary.
The Transport Authority rolled out the first phase of its
Online Application System. The new system will allow
operators of commercial carriers (green plate) to apply for
and renew road licences on the Internet. The new service
will result in improved efficiency and facilitate customer
convenience.
OUTLOOK
Growth in the Transport, Storage & Communication
industry in 2010 is projected to be relatively flat. This is
based on the continued weak demand, especially in first half

13 The Ministry of Mining and Telecommunications was established in May 2008, previously under the Ministry of Energy, Mining &
Telecommunications. Subsequently, the portfolio responsibility for Communication has been transferred to the Office of the Prime
Minister.

of the year, associated with the lagged impact of the global
economic crisis. However, in the latter half of the year, activities
in the Transport & Storage sub-industry are expected to improve
based on anticipated recovery in the main source market.
Continued growth is expected in the Communication segment of
the industry due to expansion in the segment.
16.9
Other activities that will give added boost to the industry
in 2010 include:
— the scheduled completion of Falmouth Pier;
— infrastructure works, including works to be car-
ried out at the island’s aerodromes; and
— pro curement of ad di tional buses for JUTC
fleet.¢
CHAPTER 17

TOURISM
INTRODUCTION increasing visitor arrivals (stopover and cruise passenger);
and (4) maintaining and increasing airlift capacity.

D uring 2009, Jamaica’s Tourism industry continued to oper-

ate within the context of the adverse impact of the global
economic downturn which affected international travel. The
United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) noted
that 2009 was one of the most difficult years for tourism as a result
of the economic crisis and the swine flu pandemic. Despite this,
real value added for the Hotels & Restaurants1 industry in Jamaica
grew by an estimated 1.4 per cent (Figure 17A) and contributed
5.8 per cent to overall Gross Domestic Product. This performance
was lower than the 10 year (2000-2009) average annual growth
rate of 3.1 per cent.
During the year, investment in the industry included the
expansion of hotel room stock as well as an increase in the number
of attractions. Five new attractions were added to the attractions
sub-industry.
POLICIES & PROGRAMMES
The thrust of government’s tourism policies for 2009 were
focused on:(1) reducing the impact of the global recession; (2)
maintaining and increasing market share; (3) maintaining and
The main policy documents guiding the industry were
the Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development
(The Tourism Master Plan) and the Tourism Sector
Plan-Vision 2030 Jamaica-National Development Plan.
The Master Plan continued to focus on achieving its main
objectives:
– growth based on sustainable market position;
– enhancement of visitor experience;
– community- based development;
– building of an inclusive industry; and
– environmental sustainability.
– The Master Plan is currently being reviewed.
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan
The Tourism Sector Plan was finalized in 2009 and is one
of the policy guides for the industry. The Tourism Sector
Plan for Jamaica is one of the strategic priority areas of the
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan. The

Diversion of tourists to Jamaica

due to damage done to Cancun
by Tropical Storm Wilma

12
10
8
Per Cent

6
S e p t e m b e r 11 ,
4 Terrorists Attacks
2
0
-2
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17A: PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN REAL VALUE ADDED IN HOTELS & RESTAURANTS, 2000-2009

1 This category captures most of tourism’s direct contribution to real value added.
 17.2

TABLE 17.1
INCENTIVES/PROGRAMMES TO THE TOURISM INDUSTRY
2008 2009

INCENTIVES/PROGRAMMES PERIOD CONCESSIONS GRANTED REMARKS

Hotel Incentives Act 10 - 15 Years Relief from Income Tax, Customs Duty and GCT ongoing 9 10
Resort Cottages Incentives Act 7 years Relief from Income Tax, Customs Duty and GCT ongoing 4 4
Attraction Incentives Maximum 5 years Relief from Customs Duty and GCT ongoing 9 9

Ground Transportation ongoing Relief from Customs Duty and GCT ongoing 532 422

Work permits ongoing Assistance with fast tracking applications of ongoing

foreign nationals

Source: Ministry of Tourism

main objectives of the Tourism Master Plan are reflected in the
Tourism Sector Plan. The vision statement for the sector is “an
inclusive, world class, distinctly Jamaican tourism sector that is a
major contributor to socio-economic and cultural development,
with a well-educated, highly skilled and motivated workforce at
all levels within a safe, secure and sustainably managed
environment.” The Tourism Sector Plan has five main goals.
These are:
– a Tourism industry which is inclusive and facilitates broad
participation by Jamaicans;
– an adequate workforce in the sector that is skilled, edu-
cated and motivated;
– a highly integrated industry which can act as a driver for
economic development;
– a tourism product that is diverse and distinctly Jamaican
with international competitive standards; and
– a safe, secure, sustainably managed, natural, social and
built environment.
Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management- the
Ministry has partnered with the Office of Disaster Preparedness
and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Jamaica Hotel
and Tourist Association (JHTA) to stage one-day Hurricane
Preparedness and Response Training Workshops for the Tourism
industry in each resort area as part of its Multi-hazard
Contingency Programme.
The workshops targeted managers and/ or senior personnel
with portfolio responsibility for emergency management in the
hotels, villas and attraction. Approximately 100 persons were
trained.
The aim was to build the capacity of the Tourism industry to
respond effectively to hurricanes and other natural disasters. This
will ultimately allow them to contribute to the industry’s earliest
recovery.
In addition, a contingency plan for the influenza pandemic was
developed for the Tourism industry in response to the Influenza A
H1N1 (Swine Flu) threat.
Monitored and facilitated country obligations under
the IDB/ CDERA Disaster Risk Management for
Sustainable Tourism Project
Jamaica was one of five pilot countries in the Caribbean
selected to participate in the IDB/CDERA Regional Disaster
Risk Management for Sustainable Tourism in the Caribbean
Project, which commenced in August 2007. The project,
which ended in December 2009, saw the completion of the
Regional Disaster Risk Management Strategy for
Sustainable Tourism and the Regional Standard for Risk
Assessment and Economic Valuation.
The Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) - The Tourism
Satellite Account (TSA) was developed by the Statistical
Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) and was launched in April
2009. The availability of the TSA will now facilitate more
accurate measurement and comparison of the economic
contributions of the Tourism industry. Previously, tourism
was not explicitly identified as an industry in the national
accounts. The TSA organizes tourism activities into three
categories:
(1) Inbound tourism which captures expenditure of
non-resident visitors in the domestic economy; (2) Domestic
tourism which includes expenditure of resident visitors in
the domestic economy; and (3) Outbound tourism which
shows expenditure in the domestic economy in preparation
for trips abroad. The TSA also provides information on the
various products2 offered in the industry as well as value
added for tourism.
Hotel Incentives Act (HIA) & Resort Cottages
Incentives Act (RCIA)3
The Government continued to grant benefits to the
accommodation sub-industry through the administration of
the HIA. During 2009, ten hotels, representing 724 new
rooms benefited under the HIA with capital investment of
19.3 billion compared with nine hotels during 2008. Four
properties benefited from the RCIA, representing 43 new
rooms with projected capital of $162.4 million compared
with four properties during 2008 (Table 17.1).

2 These products include: (1) Accommodation Services for visitors; (2) Food and Beverage Service and Passenger Transport Services.
3 Under the provisions of the HIA and the RCIA, operators of new and existing hotels and resorts may receive concessions, if eligible,
for undertaking expansions, alterations or refurbishing activities. The concessions provide relief from Customs Duties and Income
Tax.

Attractions Incentives4
Nine attractions received incentives under this facility
compared with 2008. Of the nine properties, three represented
new and the remainder represented existing attractions.
The Tourism Ground Transportation Sub-Industry
Incentive Policy. The purpose of this policy is to establish
harmony and consistency among the various incentive regimes of
the transportation sub-sector of the Tourism industry, and also, to
create the enabling environment ensuring a safe and reliable
service of a high standard and quality at a world class level to the
diverse group of tourists that visit Jamaica. The Tourism
Transportation sub sector of the Tourism industry includes:
– car rental operators;
– contract carriage operators which consist of: (1)Tour
companies/Destination Marketing Company (DMC)
which operate seven seater buses and over and offer
packaged tours;
– Transport Associations – e.g. JUTA, JCAL and MAXI;
and
– Independent operators.
During 2009, a total of 422 duty concessions were granted to
car rental entities to import motor vehicles compared with 532
duty concessions granted in 2008. In response to the economic
recession facing the tourism ground transportation sub-industry,
the government put in place a stimulus package for car rental
operators with effect from September 2009, ending March 31,
2010. This package included: customs duty reduction moving
from 30.0 per cent to 15.0 per cent on motor cars/sports utility
vehicles not exceeding 2500cc with a maximum CIF value of
US$25 000.00.
On January 1, 2009, a reduction in consumption tax normally
levied on the Tourism industry was reduced to 4.125 per cent from
8.25 per cent. This remained in effect for six months.
Loan Facilities for Small Properties
The Development Bank of Jamaica made available a special
loan facility of $500.0 million to provide working capital to
players in the Tourism industry. Loans were offered at a maximum
of $50.0 million each at an interest rate of 10.0 per cent for a period
of two years. This was in addition to $210.0 million provided by
the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF).
Tourism Enhancement Fund
In 2009, the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) continued to
assist the development of the accommodation, attractions and
tourism transportation (contract carriage) sub-sector through the
Jamaica National Small Business Loan Prog ramme.
Approximately $175.0 million was disbursed as follows: (a)
development programme which includes expansion of small
tourism entities - 42 loans were approved representing
$125.2million; (b) Transportation (Contract Carriage operators)-
$ 50.0 million was approved and a total of $15.0 million was
disbursed to 15 contract carriage operators; (c) Hurricane
4 Incentives are provided for the establishment, refurbishment, conservation, and reconstruction and repositioning of attractions in the
tourism industry.
5 This is a training programme which is based on demand.
17.3
Recovery Programme - $34.5 million was approved and 13
properties benefited. Approximately $3.7 billion was
approved for projects and approximately $1.9 billion
disbursed.
A total of $20.0 million was allocated from the Tourism
Enhancement Fund for repairs to the Ward Theatre. In
addition, work is ongoing to upgrade the grounds of Devon
House, in keeping with the goal of enhancing and promoting
heritage tourism.
Marketing and Promotion-Jamaica Tourist Board
(JTB)
During FY 2009/10, the JTB’s budget for marketing and
promotional activities amounted to $1 596 million compared
with $1 721.0 million during FY 2008/09.
Marketing and Promotional activities for the year
included:
– representation at major trade events. These included
targeted emerging markets of Latin America, east-
ern Europe, China, India and Ireland;
– participation in Consumer and Trade Shows. These
included ITB Berlin World Travel Market and Inter-
national Travel & Meeting Expo;
– hosting of the first Latin America Jamaica Product
Exchange (JAPEX). Over 23 major tour operators
from various Latin American countries, such as Ar-
gentina, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, among others at-
tended.
Special Projects and Promotions
The JTB facilitated several events which provided
additional exposure for Jamaica. These included:
– the annual Tourism Outlook seminar to improve di-
alogue between stakeholders including private and
public partners;
– promotion of destination Jamaica featuring Usain
Bolt; and
– experience Jamaica which is aimed at promoting
the island’s destination to locals.
Product Development
The TPDCo. continued its programmes in the areas of
training and improving product quality.
Training
A total of 4 240 persons were trained in the industry by
TPDCo. Of these, 450 persons were trained under the skills
upgrading5 programme compared with 1 218 in 2008.
Participants were trained in the areas of house-keeping, food
 17.4

350

300

250

200
visitors

150

100

50

0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17B: MONTHLY TOTAL VISITOR ARRIVALS, 2007-2009

preparation and food service. Some 2 735 persons were trained
under Team Jamaica6, of which 2 165 were certified.
A further 1 055 students were trained under the Tourism
Youth Expo and Career Fair. These students were trained in the
areas of customer service and the general business of tourism
which includes attitudes and perception. Another 5 072 Human
Employment and Resource Training (HEART) trainees were
trained in hospitality management.
Standards and Quality
Under the Monitoring and Assessment programme, the
TPDCo recommended 2 278 entities to the JTB for licences7
compared with 2 187 entities in 2008.
The “Spruce Up Jamaica” campaign continued in
collaboration with the National Solid Waste Management
Authority (NSWMA). The campaign was done on a phased

20

15

10
2009
per cent

5
2008

-5

-10
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

FIGURE 17C: MONTHLY PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN STOPOVER ARRIVALS, 2008-2009

6 TheTeam Jamaica is a mandatory training programme for persons in the industry. Training includes the general business of tourism
and includes customer service, attitude and perception to tourism.
7 The applications for licences are for car and bike rentals, water sports operations and the accommodation sub- industries.
 17.5

TABLE 17.2
TOURISM PERFORMANCE INDICATORS 2005-2009
% Change
INDICATORS 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p 2008 2009
2007 2008

Foreign Nationals 1 386 996 1 578 207 1 573 267 1 623 675 1 683 846 3.2 3.7
Non-resident Jamaicans 91 667 100 698 127 518 143 596 147 251 12.6 2.5
Total Stopovers 1 478 663 1 678 905 1 700 785 1 767 271 1 831 097 3.9 3.6
Cruise Passengers 1 135 843 1 336 994 1 179 504 1 092 263r 922 349 -7.4 -15.5

TOTAL VISITOR ARRIVALS 2 614 506 3 015 358 2 880 289 2 859 534r 2 753 446 -0.7 -3.7

Average Length of Stay (Nights) 9.8 9.8 9.6 9.3 9.2 -3.1 -1.1

Total Foreign Exchange Earnings US$M 1 545.1 1 870.6 1 910.0 1 975.5 1 939.7 3.4 -1.8
Stopover Foreign Exchange EarningsUS$M 1 448.9 1 753.0 1 795.9 1 871.5 1 859.1 4.2 -0.7
Cruise Foreign Exchange Earnings US$M 96.1 117.6 114.1 104.0 80.6 -8.9 -22.5

p provisional
r revised
Source: Compiled from data supplied by the Jamaica Tourist Board

basis with completion of stages one, two and three. Work involved
beautification of tourist resort areas.
PERFORMANCE
Total Visitor Arrivals
During the year, total visitor arrivals declined by 3.7 per cent to
2 753 446 visitors (Table 17.2). This decline was attributed to the
fall-off in cruise passenger arrivals as stopover arrivals increased.
With respect to cruise passengers, growth was experienced in
three months of the year, April, May and June, and was influenced
by the outbreak of swine flu in Cancun. However, this was
not enough to offset the overall decline for the year.
Stopover Arrivals
Despite the global economic recession, total stopover
arrivals to the island grew by 3.6 per cent to 1 831 097. Of
this total, the Foreign National8 category grew by 3.7 per
cent to 1 683 846 while the Non-Resident Jamaican category
increased by 2.5 per cent to 147 251 (see Table 17.2). The
average length of stay for Foreign Nationals during 2009
was 9.2 nights compared with 9.3 nights in 2008.

Other Europe,
5.0
Other , 4.9

United Kingdom ,
10.1

Canada, 15.9
United States,
64.1

FIGURE 17D: ARRIVALS FROM MAIN SOURCE MARKETS

8 This category consistently accounts for approximately 94.0 per cent of total stopover visitors.
 17.6

TABLE 17.3
STOPOVER VISITORS TO JAMAICA BY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, 2005-2009

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

stopover % share stopover % share stopover % share stopover % share stopover % share
United States 1 058 317 71.6 1 190 721 71.0 1 132 532 66.6 1 150 942 65.1 1 172 844 64.1
Canada 116 862 7.9 153 569 9.1 190 650 11.2 236 193 13.3 290 307 15.9
Europe of which: 233 879 15.8 256 074 15.2 288 894 17.0 284 700 16.1 276 799 15.1
United Kingdom 149 773 10.1 175 363 10.4 185 657 10.9 188 436 10.6 184 512 10.1
Germany 19 860 1.3 19 668 1.2 19 895 1.2 18 962 1.1 20 220 1.1
Spain 6 814 0.5 7 427 0.4 17 882 1.1 15 510 0.9 12 768 0.7
Italy 24 424 1.7 17 564 1.0 17 394 1.0 14 563 0.8 14 588 0.8
Other Europe 33 008 2.2 80 711 4.3 103 237 6.1 96 264 5.4 44 711 2.4
Caribbean 50 239 3.4 55 948 3.3 62 967 3.7 67 231 3.8 65 339 3.6
Latin America 8 428 0.6 11 101 0.7 12 169 0.7 16 122 0.9 14 492 0.8
Japan 4 304 0.3 3 755 0.2 3 049 0.2 2 846 0.2 2 511 0.1
Other 6 634 0.4 7 734 0.9 10 524 0.6 9 237 0.5 8 805 0.4

TOTAL 1 478 663 100.0 1 678 902 100.0 1 700 785 100.0 1 767 271 100.0 1 831 097 100.0

Source: Compiled by PIOJ from data supplied by Jamaica Tourist Board

During the twelve-month period, there was consistent growth
in stopover arrivals, except during March, which was explained
mainly by the celebration of Easter in April 2009 compared with
2008 when the holiday was celebrated in March.9
The performance of the stopover arrivals category was due
mainly to:
– marketing of destination, Jamaica;
– discounting within the accommodation sub-industry;10
– a relatively inactive hurricane season11 compared with
2008; and
– increased air seats, particularly from the USA market.
ARRIVALS FROM THE MAIN SOURCE MARKETS
United States of America (USA)
The USA continued to be the dominant source market for
stopover arrivals to Jamaica, despite its share falling to 64.1 per
cent from 65.1 per cent during 2008. (Figure 17D) (Table 17.3).
Stopover arrivals from the USA totalled 1 172 844, an increase of
1.9 per cent relative to 2008. The higher arrival numbers was
facilitated by the increase in air seats12. During the period
2000-2009, the average annual growth rate for stopover arrivals
from the USA was 3.1 per cent. Arrivals from the Northeast
region13increased by 5.9 per cent to 524 476 persons while visitors
from the Midwest region increased by 1.4 per cent to 213 613
persons, respectively. However, stopover arrivals from the
South region and West regions declined by 2.2 per cent and
2.7 per cent, respectively. The average length of stay for
stopover arrivals from the USA in 2009 was 7.9 nights
compared with 7.8 nights in 2008.
Canada
Stopover arrivals from Canada totalled 290 307, an
increase of 22.9 per cent relative to 2008. For the first time,
visitor arrivals from Canada surpassed stopover arrivals
from Europe (Table 17.3). Canada’s share (15.9 per cent) of
stopover arrivals to Jamaica has progressively increased
since 2006 and has surpassed the UK as the second largest
source market since 2007 (see Table 17.3). During the ten
year period, 2000-2009, average annual growth rate for
stopover arrivals from Canada was 12.0 per cent. For the
period 2000-2004, the average annual growth rate was 1.4
per cent while during the latter half (2005-2009) the average
annual growth rate was 22.6 per cent. The growth during the
latter half of the decade was explained by, among other
things, the improved economic conditions of Canadians as
well as the marketing efforts of the JTB.
The growth in visitor arrivals was consistent with the
increase in the number of air seats14. Growth in visitor
arrivals was recorded for all the Canadian provinces, with
Ontario15 recording the largest growth, increasing by 18.8
per cent to 179 334. This was followed by Quebec, the

9 Stopover arrivals for March 2008 was 184 267 compared with 164 547 in March 2007.
10 In order to alleviate the effects of the global economic crisis, hotels allowed discounts. This was in keeping with regional and global
trends which showed a slump in hotel prices.
11 In August 2008, Tropical Storm Gustav hit Jamaica. Although there was minimal damage to the hotel industry, there were some
hotel cancellations.
12 During May 2009, Jet Blue airlines started one daily scheduled service from John F. Kennedy, New York City to Montego Bay with a
capacity of 156 persons. Additionally, during December 2009, Air Tran and US Airways both started weekly chartered service from
Phoenix with a combined capacity of 261 persons. The service from both airlines is expected to continue until April 2010.
13 The Northeast region typically accounts for the majority of the visitors from the US market followed by the South.
14 In 2008, during the months of March and December, Air Canada started weekly scheduled service and subsequently twice weekly
scheduled service from Canada. Additionally, during November 2008, WestJet Airlines introduced an additional new daily
scheduled service.
15 Ontario consistently accounts for the majority of visitors from Canada and during 2009 represented approximately 61.8 per cent.
 17.7

200

150
cruise passengers

100

50

0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17E: MONTHLY CRUISE PASSENGER ARRIVALS, 2007-2009

second leading province, with visitor arrivals increasing by 31.5
per cent to 44 730. There were also higher arrivals from
non-traditional Canadian provinces such as British Colombia,
Manitoba, Newfoundland and Alberta which all experienced
double digit increases of 40.7 per cent, 24.8 per cent and 44.4 per
cent and 33.9 per cent, respectively. The average length of stay for
Canadian visitors during 2009 was 9.6 nights compared with 10.2
nights in 2008.
Europe
Stopover arrivals from Europe contracted by 2.8 per cent to
276 799 reflecting reductions in stopover visitors from all the
European regions, except Western Europe. The Northern Europe
region, which accounts for most of the visitors out of Europe, fell
by 2.4 per cent to 191 225, despite the increase in air seat
availability16. This decline continued to be influenced mainly by
stopover arrivals from the United Kingdom, which fell by 2.1 per
cent to 184 512. The UK’s share of stopovers was 10.1 per cent
compared with 10.6 per cent in 2008 (see Table 17.3). During
November 2009, an Air Passenger Duty tax was increased by the
British government, and this will result in higher airfares for
visitors from the UK. The average length of stay for UK17visitors
was16.0 nights, the same as in 2008.
Stopover arrivals from Southern Europe, largely coming from
Spain and Italy, decreased by 8.5 per cent to 36 703, while visitor
arrivals from Western Europe, largely coming from Germany,
increased by 4.1 per cent to 42 848. There were 1 258 more
German visitors, an increase of 6.6 per cent. However, stopover
arrivals from Spain and Italy declined by 18.3 per cent to 12 496
and by 3.1 per cent to 12 799, respectively. Despite the increase in
air seats 18, arrivals from Portugal decreased to 8 426
from 9 622 visitors (Table 17.3).
Cruise Passenger Arrivals
Cruise ship passenger arrivals declined for a third
consecutive year, with 169 914 fewer passengers than in
2008 (See Table 17.2) reflecting a change in the preference
of cruise liners to the Mediterranean.
During the year, cruise passenger arrivals declined in
every month except in May (13.9 per cent) and June (18.2
per cent) (Figure 17E). The increase during these two
months was explained by the diversion of cruise ships to
Jamaica as a result of the swine flu outbreak in Cancun,
Mexico. The number of ship calls declined by 16.1 per cent
to 334 calls.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay received a total of 282 426 cruise
passengers compared with 405 999 in 2008 (Figure 17 F)
with approximately 86.9 per cent of these participating in
organized tours. Pre-booked tours declined by 26.2 per cent
with 146 635 participants (Table 17.4a). The total number
of passengers who participated in freelance tours was
98 715, a decrease of 22.8 per cent.
Ocho Rios
A total of 637 665 cruise passengers visited Ocho Rios
during 2009 compared with 679 247 during 2008 (Figure

16 During October 2009, British Airways started daily scheduled service from Gatwick to Montego Bay with a carrying capacity of
280.
17 European visitors including those from the UK usually stay longer.
18 On October 27, 2009, White Airways started a weekly charter service out of Lisbon, Portugal to Montego Bay, Jamaica, with a
carrying capacity of 237. This weekly service is expected to continue until May 2010.
 17.8

TABLE 17.4a
PREBOOKED AND FREELANCE PASSENGER 2008-2009 MONTEGO BAY
2008 2009

Cruise Prebookeda Freelanceb Total % total Cruise Prebooked a Freelance b Total % total
Passengers Passenger passenger Passenger Passenger passenger
accounted accounted accounted accounted
for c 2008 for c 2009
January 62 472 30 627 14 542 45 169 72.3 33 958 16 201 12 170 28 371 84.0
February 47 632 25 307 14 390 39 697 83.3 34 071 17 379 11 583 28 962 85.0
March 45 646 24 216 14 265 38 481 84.3 34 727 18 860 12 332 31 192 89.8
April 42 230 21 128 12 332 33 460 79.2 36 638 16 996 12 905 29 901 82.0
May 21 764 11 434 6 928 18 362 84.4 27 898 14 447 10 544 24 991 89.6
June 22 884 13 096 7 178 20 274 88.6 16 386 9 959 4 986 14 945 91.2
July 30 654 15 937 10 282 26 219 85.5 14 521 8 445 4 778 13 223 91.1
August 19 308 8 920 6 736 15 656 81.0 10 618 5 841 3 741 9 582 90.2
September 13 486 5 452 5 042 10 494 77.8 12 877 6 350 4 836 11 186 86.9
October 24 017 10 428 8 402 18 830 78.4 13 662 7 111 4 845 11 956 87.5
November 29 745 12 891 10 486 23 377 78.6 17 194 9 718 5 264 14 982 87.1
December 46 161 19 369 17 401 36 770 79.6 29 876 15 328 10 731 26 059 87.2
Total 405 999 198 805 127 984 326 789 80.4 282 426 146 635 98 715 245 350 86.9

Note: a+b =c
Source: Compiled by PIOJ from data supplied by Montego Bay Cruise Pier

17G) with 43.0 per cent participating in organized tours (Table Port Antonio
17.4b). The relatively lower rate of participation in organized
tours is attributed to the closer proximity of the main attractions to Port Antonio received six ship calls with 1 339
the Ocho Rios cruise pier, resulting in passengers making their passengers compared with 13 calls with 7 017 passengers
own arrangements to visit these attractions. Of the total, 224 770 during 2008.
participated in pre-booked tours compared with 264 888 in 2008.
Some 49 665 persons participated in freelance tours compared Visitor Expenditure
with 76 352 persons in 2008. Despite the reduction in cruise ship
passengers, Ocho Rios won the “Caribbean Leading Cruise For the year, total provisional visitor expenditure was
Port”19 for the first time. US$1 939.7 million compared with US$1 975.5 million
during 2008. Total stopover expenditure for the year was

70

60

50
cruise passengers

40

30

20

10

0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17F: MONTHLY CRUISE PASSENGERS TO MONTEGO BAY, 2007-2009

19 The attractions in Ocho Rios, such as the Dunn’s River Falls, was the reason for it being voted as the number one cruise pier. This
was supported by it being voted the Caribbean’s leading Tourist Excursion by World Travel Market 2009.
 17.9

TABLE 17.4b
PREBOOKED AND FREELANCE PASSENGER 2008-2009
OCHO RIOS
2008 2009

Cruise Passengers Prebooked Freelance Total % Total Cruise Passengers Prebooked Freelance Total % Total
(a) (b) Passengers Passengers (a) (b) Passengers Passenger
Accounted Accounted Accounted Accounted
for (c) for 2008 for (c) for 2009
January 80 495 33 293 8 159 41 452 51.5 73 813 23 890 7 150 31 040 42.0
February 85 393 30 909 9 301 40 210 47.0 55 536 22 808 3 900 26 708 48.1
March 92 355 35 763 10 505 46 268 50.1 77 164 28 395 5 824 34 219 44.3
April 67 471 27 099 7 440 34 539 51.2 66 846 26 685 5 745 32 430 48.5
May 38 096 15 817 5 040 20 857 54.7 40 283 16 041 2 382 18 423 45.7
June 35 078 16 202 1 391 17 593 50.2 52 153 19 432 3 239 22 671 43.5
July 38 689 16 991 5 908 22 899 59.2 41 591 17 564 3 431 20 995 50.5
August 35 348 14 769 5 284 20 053 56.7 40 831 14 216 3 506 17 722 43.4
September 35 335 11 907 5 280 17 187 48.6 32 126 10 153 2 159 12 312 38.3
October 49 148 18 166 5 664 23 830 48.5 43 816 14 047 3 065 17 112 39.1
November 45 667 15 996 4 342 20 338 44.5 51 777 15 660 3 082 18 742 36.2
December 72 810 27 976 8 038 36 014 49.5 62 340 15 879 6 182 22 061 35.4
Total 675 885 264 888 76 352 341 240 50.5 638 276 224 770 49 665 274 435 43.0

Note: a + b =c
Source: Compiled by PIOJ from data supplied by Ocho Rios Cruise Pier

US$1 859.1 million, a decrease of 0.7 per cent relative to 2008
(Figure 17H). Total cruise expenditure declined by 22.5 per cent
to US$80.6 million compared with 2008 (Figure 17I).
Employment20
The average annual employment in Hotels and Restaurants
was 78 893 persons compared with 80 182 persons during 2008
(Table 17.5). This decline reflected the closure of some hotels and
tourist entities due to the impact of the global economic downturn.
The average annual employment for males and females in the
hotel sub-industry during 2009 was 16 663 and 14 140 compared
with 17 171 and 15 417, respectively in 2008. However, average
annual employment for males and females in the restaurants
sub-industry during 2009 was 16 859 and 31 231 persons
compared with 15 340 and 32 254 in 2008.
Investment
Investment in 2009 continued to be concentrated in the
accommodation and attractions sub-industries. A total of 198 new
rooms were added to the existing room stock with the opening of
the Spanish Court Hotel, Wexford Court Hotel-expansion and
Hotel on the Greens with capital investment of approximately
$704.0 million. The Secrets Resort & Spa, located in Montego
Bay, is currently under construction.
The stock of Loans & Advances allocated to the industry by
commercial banks at the end of December 2009 was $39.6 billion
compared with $40.8 billion at the end of December 2008. This
performance was consistent with the downturn in the world
economy. However, the stock of Loans & Advances to the
industry from institutions licensed under the FIA as at the end of
December 2009 was $4.5 billion compared with $0.3 billion as at
December 2008.
INTERNATIONAL AND CARIBBEAN DEVELOP-
MENTS
International Tourism Performance
International tourist arrivals were estimated to have
declined by 4.0 per cent to 880.0 million, the first decrease
since 2002. There was a 2.0 per cent growth during the final
quarter of 2009 in contrast to decreases of 10.0 per cent, 7.0
per cent and 2.0 per cent during quarters one, two and three,
respectively. Asia & the Pacific and the Middle East
contributed to the growth during the last quarter, reflecting
increased arrivals to both regions. The increase during
October-December 2009 may be associated with signs of an
abatement of the recession in some source markets.
Figures for the calendar year showed that growth was
negative in all world regions, except in Africa.
There was a fall-off in visitors to the following regions:
Europe- 6.0 per cent to 522.0 million. This was
influenced by the decline in visitors to: Northern Europe by
7.7 per cent; Western Europe by 4.3 per cent; Central Europe
by 8.2 per cent; and the Southern Mediterranean Europe by
4.7 per cent;
Asia & the Pacific- 2.0 per cent to 21.0 million. This
reflected reduced arrivals to most of the regions, except
South-East Asia, which grew by 0.4 per cent. The number
of visitors to North East Asia, Oceania and South Asia fell
by 3.3 per cent, 1.8 per cent and 2.8 per cent, respectively;
Americas- 5.1per cent to 140.0 million. This decline was
attributed to the reduced number of visitors to North
American, down 6.0 per cent; Central America, down 5.7
per cent; South America, down 3.3 per cent; and the
Caribbean, down 2.4 per cent. The Caribbean returned to
growth during the last four months of 2009.

20 STATIN’s estimates
 17.10

100
90
80
cruise passengers

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17G: MONTHLY TOTAL CRUISE PASSENGER ARRIVALS TO OCHO RIOS, 2007-2009

Middle East -6.0 per cent to 525.0 million. During January Consistent with the decline in visitor arrivals,
–June there was a 16.4 per cent decline in visitors to this region, international tourism receipts declined by 6.0 per cent
while in July–December there was an improvement of 5.3 per compared with 2008.
cent.
Caribbean Tourism Performance21
On the other hand, arrivals to Africa grew by 5.1 per cent to
48.0 million, reflecting a 2.9 per cent increase in arrivals to North Stopover Visitor Arrivals
Africa and a 6.4 per cent increase to Sub-Saharan destinations.
Arrivals increased in each month, except March, due to Easter Data from the Caribbean Tourist Organization (CTO)
being celebrated in April 2009 compared with March 2008. showed that there were declines in stopover arrivals from

2000

1800

1600
US$M

1400

1200

1000

800
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17H: Total Stopover Expenditure 2000-2009

FIGURE 17H: TOTAL STOPOVER EXPENDITURE, 2000-2009

21 This section is based on the most current information from the Caribbean Tourism Organization.
 17.11

TABLE 17.5
AVERAGE ANNUAL EMPLOYMENT IN HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS, 2008-2009

2008 2009
Male Female Total r Male Female Total
Hotels 17 171 15 417 32 588 16 663 14 140 30 803
Restaurants 15 340 32 254 47 594 16 859 31 231 48 090
Total 32 511 47 671 80 182 33 522 45 371 78 893

r- revised
Source: Compiled from data supplied by STATIN

most countries in the region. The Bahamas, Dominican Republic,
Cancun, Mexico, Cuba and Jamaica continued to account for the
majority of the stopover visitors to the Caribbean during 2009
(Table 17.6). Of the volume leaders, Jamaica, Cuba and the
Dominican Republic showed growth in stopover arrivals of 3.6
per cent to 1 831 097 and 3.5 per cent to 2 429 809, 0.3 per cent
to 3 992 303, respectively (See Table 17.6).
There were declines in visitor arrivals from Barbados (down
8.7 per cent), Puerto Rico (down 2.8 per cent) and the US Virgin
Islands (down 2.5 per cent) and St. Lucia (down 5.8 per cent).
Cruise Ship Passenger Arrivals
Reductions in cruise ship passenger arrivals were recorded
for: Cayman Islands (2.1 per cent); Cozumel, Mexico22 (21.0 per
cent), Jamaica23(15.3 per cent); Puerto Rico (15.0 per cent); and
US Virgin Islands (9.9 per cent). There was increased cruise
passenger arrivals to the Bahamas, (the leading cruise destination
in the Caribbean) (14.9 per cent); Antigua & Barbuda (26.4 per
cent); Belize (18.1 per cent); Grenada (16.1 per cent); and St.
Lucia (12.8 per cent) (Table 17.7). Despite the overall
fall-off in cruise ship visitor arrivals, the Caribbean was
voted the best cruise destination by the World Travel
Market24.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
It was recently decided by the British Parliament that the
Air Passenger Duty Tax (APD) should be increased. This
was implemented in the form of a banding system and is
determined by the distance from London to the capital city of
an individual country. The Caribbean was placed in Band C
which includes 4001-6000 miles from London. Within this
Band, as of November 2009, the APD for economy class
increased by ^50.0 per person and by ^100.0 per person for
first class. This would translate into higher air fares for
stopover visitors from the UK. A further increase in the APD
is proposed for November 2010.

100

95

90
US$

85

80

75
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 17I: TOTAL CRUISE EXPENDITURE, 2000-2009(US$M)

22 Data available for January –July.

23 Jamaica won the award for the Caribbean’s leading cruise destination, the fifth year in a row, and the World’s leading cruise
destination for the fourth consecutive year.
24 The World Travel Market is an award programme for the travel industry.
 17.12

TABLE 17.6
STOPOVER ARRIVALS TO THE CARIBBEAN, 2008-2009

% Change
COUNTRY PERIOD 2008 2009p 2009/2008

ANGUILLA JAN-JUN 39 612 30 716 -22.5

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA* JAN-NOV 241 819 211 107 -12.7
ARUBA p JAN-DEC 826 774 812 623 -1.7
BAHAMAS JAN-OCT 1 259 803 1 116 195 -11.4
BARBADOS p JAN-DEC 567 667 518 564 -8.7
BELIZE JAN-OCT 193 340 192 155 -6.0
BERMUDA * JAN-DEC 263 613 235 860 -10.5
BONAIRE JAN-SEP 51 978 49 316 -12.7
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS JAN-JUL 247 968 205 914 -17.0
CANCUN (MEXICO)** JAN-SEP 1 700 123 1 434 416 -15.6
CAYMAN ISLANDS JAN-DEC 302 879 271 958 -10.2
CUBA JAN-DEC 2 348 340 2 429 809 3.5
CURACAO p JAN-NOV 346 084 333 866 -3.5
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC* JAN-DEC 3 979 672 3 992 303 0.3
GRENADA p JAN-DEC 123 770 113 370 -12.5
GUYANA p JAN-DEC 132 776 141 053 6.2
JAMAICA JAN-DEC 1 767 271 1 831 097 3.6
MARTINIQUE p JAN-DEC 479 933 443 202 -7.7
MONSTSERRAT JAN-NOV 5 908 4 897 -17.1
PUERTO RICO ** JAN-OCT 1 028 727 1 082 423 -2.8
SABA JAN-AUG 9 009 8 707 -3.4
ST.EUSTATIUS JAN-APR 4 134 4 025 -2.6
ST. LUCIA JAN-DEC 295 761 278 491 -5.8
ST. MAARTEN * JAN-DEC 475 410 440 185 -7.4
ST. VINCENT & G'DINES JAN-OCT 63 956 60 442 -5.5
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS JAN-DEC 678 904 666 051 -2.5

Winter: January - April Summer: May - December

*Non-Resident Air Arrivals **Non-Resident Hotel registrations only
p preliminary
N.B.: Figures subject to revision by reporting countries
Source: Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)

OUTLOOK – costs for travelers from the UK is expected to be

Real value added for the Hotels & Restaurants industry is
expected to increase during 2010 based on growth in stopover
arrivals from the main source markets, namely the USA and
Canada. However, growth will be constrained due to the expected
slowing in visitor expenditure as a result of continued discounting.
The decline in cruise passenger arrivals is expected to slow
due to a contractual arrangement based on the completion of the
Falmouth cruise pier in October. The Oasis, the biggest cruise ship
with a carrying capacity of 6000 passengers, will dock at this pier.
Despite the fact that the global economic conditions are
expected to improve during 2010, the effects of the economic
recession will still likely be a challenge for Jamaica’s tourism
industry.
The following downside risks are anticipated:
challenging, given the increase of the APD tax. In
November 2010, the APD will reach as high as 94.0
per cent to ^75.0 per person for economy class to
^150.0 in other than the lowest class of travel per
person per APD; and
– visitor expenditure is expected to recover at a slower
pace than travel volumes.
In addition, commencing on April 1, 2010, there will be
an increase in GCT from 8.25 per cent to 10.0 per cent on the
tourism industry. This increase will translate into higher
costs for the industry. The increase will be applicable to the
following sub-industries:
– hotels;
– resort cottages;

– unemployment will be a major challenge;

– other tourist accommodations;

– economic growth in Europe and USA is still fragile;

– camp sites;

– oil prices will remain volatile;

– water sports;
 17.13

TABLE 17.7
CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER ARRIVALS TO THE CARIBBEAN, 2008 - 2009
% Change
COUNTRY PERIOD 2008 2009p 2009
2008
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA JAN-OCT 427 263 539 924 26.4
ARUBA JAN-OCT 403 845 441 288 9.3
BAHAMAS JAN-OCT 2 264 860 2 602 321 14.9
BARBADOS JAN-DEC 597 523 635 746 6.4
BELIZE JAN-DEC 597 370 705 219 18.1
BERMUDA JAN-DEC 286 409 318 528 11.2
BONAIRE JAN-SEPT 95 615 148 058 54.8
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS JAN-JUL 398 267 355 065 -10.8
CAYMAN ISLANDS JAN-DEC 1 553 053 1 520 372 -2.1
COZUMEL (MEXICO) JAN-JUL 1 605 908 1 269 121 -21.0
CURACAO JAN-NOV 239 208 359 601 29.7
DOMINICA JAN-DEC 386 414 532 352 37.8
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC JAN-AUG 348 923 374 284 7.3
GRENADA p JAN-DEC 292 712 339 752 16.1
JAMAICA JAN-DEC 1 088 901 922 349 -15.3
MARTINIQUE JAN-DEC 87 079 69 749 -20.0
PUERTO RICO JAN-NOV 1 230 420 1 045 459 -15.0
ST. LUCIA JAN-DEC 619 680 699 306 12.8
ST. MAARTEN JAN-DEC 1 345 812 1 215 146 -9.7
ST. VINCENT & JAN-OCT 70 206 104 781 49.2
GRENADINES
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO JAN-MAY 23 667 83 713 253.7
US VIRGIN ISLANDS JAN-DEC 1 757 067 1 582 264 -9.9

p - preliminary

Source: Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)

– attractions; and – the completion of the Falmouth Cruise Pier, pro-

– tour operators.
Anticipated developments in the tourism industry are expected
to add value to the destination and contribute in visitor arrivals.
Anticipated developments in 2010 include:
– the opening of the Secrets Resorts & Spa, located in
Freeport, Montego Bay, with 700 rooms;
posed for October 2010;
– the opening of the Convention Centre in November
2010, with the first convention scheduled for Janu-
ary 2011; and
– the opening of the New Dolphin Cove Attraction in
May 2010.n
CHAPTER 18
ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS
INTRODUCTION
D
uring 2009, activities in the Entertainment & Sports in-
dustry were negatively affected by the impact of the
global economic crisis on disposable income. The lacklustre
performance in the industry was influenced mainly by the down-
turn in the entertainment activities as evident in the general de-
cline in gross sales1 for the entertainment categories. Despite
this decline in real gross sales, Government investment in sport-
ing infrastructure and allocation to various sporting agencies
and associations increased during 2009. This reflects the com-
mitment to developing the industry in order to benefit from the
growth in the economic value of cultural industries.
Efforts to increase the level of competition in the industry
continued and measures were taken to facilitate the expansion of
the broadcasting industry. The broadcasting landscape was
expanded with new entrants to the industry and the issuance of
new licences. The Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica
introduced measures to ensure that media content was
appropriate for public broadcast.
POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES
National Policy Framework
The Vision 2030 Jamaica-National Development Plan was
completed and tabled in the Houses of Parliament by the
Honourable Prime Minister in May, 2009. The Creative
Industry Sector Plan of Vision 2030 outlines the strategic
framework for the further development and leveraging of the
cultural expressions and creativity of the Jamaican people in
order to enable the industry to become a major contributor to the
sustainable economic development of the country. The Industry
Plan will also seek to ensure that the intellectual property on
which these cultural expressions are based will be respected.
National Export Strategy (NES): During 2009, steps were
taken towards the implementation of the National Export
Strategy, with the Jamaica Trade & Invest hosting a Resource
Mobilization meeting in November 2009. The main objective of
the meeting was to secure financial support for priority areas
within the strategy which includes the creative industries.
Both Vision 2030 Jamaica and the NES recognize that
despite the successes that Jamaica has had in the Entertainment
and Sports arena, there is room for increasing the number of
1 Gross Sales for the industry are obtained from General Consumption Tax (GCT) filings by compliant taxpayers.
participants in the industry, as well as for improving the
capabilities of the existing professionals, and the quality of
their services and products through:
– the preservation, development and promotion of Ja-
maica’s cultural heritage;
– integration of Jamaica’s Nation Brand into develop-
mental processes; and
– a strengthened role for Sports in all aspects of national
development.
The NES value chain analysis indicates that efforts in the
industry, particularly those spearheaded by Jamaica Trade and
Invest, will centre on improving efficiencies and reducing
leakages.
Electronic Media
Legislative Changes
In February 2009, under the authority of Regulation 31 of
the Television and Sound Broadcasting Regulations, 1996, the
Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica (BCJ) issued three
directives to licensees in response to content that was sexual
and violent in nature. The directives issued by the Commission
were to prohibit the transmission of:
– any recording, live song or music video which pro-
motes and/or glorifies the use of guns or other offen-
sive weapons;
– any recording, live song or music video which pro-
motes or glorifies any offence against the person such
as murder, rape, mob violence and other offences such
as arson; and
– any audio recording, song or music video which em-
ploys editing techniques of ‘bleeping’ or ‘beeping’ of
its lyrical content.
Citizen-Based Media Monitoring Programme
On February 8, 2009, the BCJ launched a drive to recruit
media monitors for the Citizen-Based Media Monitoring
Programme. Five training sessions were held across the island
— in Kingston, Portland, St. James and Westmoreland — with
a total of 160 volunteers being trained. During the training
sessions, volunteers were introduced to the laws, directives,
rating structure used by the BCJ and were shown examples of
 18.2

8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
-1.0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

FIGURE 18A:CHANGE IN REAL VALUE ADDED FOR RECREATIONAL, CULTURAL

& SPORTING ACTIVITIES, 1999 - 2008

problematic content and given examples of the BCJ rulings. were geared towards informing the public about pro-
Some of the documents used in the training sessions included: tecting and exploiting Intellectual Property Rights.
– Media Monitor’s Manual; Creative Industries Investment Projects
– Media Monitoring Form; and
The Jamaica Trade & Invest (JTI) administered 79 creative
– Media Preference Form. industries projects for the year. Capital expenditure and
employment associated with these projects were $219.1
Monitoring million and 739 persons, respectively. The projects
administered by the JTI were:
The BCJ, in accordance with its copyright protection role,
continued to ensure that Subscriber Television Operators – Film/TV projects (45);
respected and complied with the intellectual property rights – Photography (13);
regulations. In August 2009, subsequent to receiving
complaints against three locally-based cable operators illegally – Radio (4);
using Home Box Office Programming in Jamaica, the BCJ
issued letters of enquiry to the respective companies and – Music (4);
commenced investigations into the matter. – Entertainment (3); and
Intellectual Property System – News Media (1)

The approved expenditure for the Jamaica Intellectual PERFORMANCE

Property Office (JIPO)2 was $72.4 million for Fiscal Year (FY)
2009/2010. This was $3.3 million less that the budgetary
allocation received for FY 2008/2009.
During 2009, JIPO continued its efforts to raise the level of
public awareness about intellectual property through the
following activities:
– a follow-up workshop3 to “How to Make A Living
From Music” in which a total of 120 persons partici-
pated. This workshop was held in collaboration with
World Intellectual Property Office; and
– Intellectual Property Week - During April 20–26, 2009,
various activities were carried out by JIPO as it cele-
brated Intellectual Property Week. All these activities
The average growth rate for Recreational, Cultural &
Sporting Activities, the category which captures most of the
entertainment and sporting activities, was 3.0 per cent for the
five-year period, 2004–2008. Data available to 2008 indicated
that the real value added for Recreational, Cultural & Sporting
Activities increased by 1.1 per cent in 2008 (Figure 18A). The
industry’s share as a percentage of total Gross Domestic
Product increased by one percentage point to 2.7 per cent
(Figure 18B).

2 JIPO is the institution charged with the responsibility of establishing and administering Jamaica’s intellectual property system.
3 The first session was held in March 2008.
 18.3

2.7

2.6

2.5
Per Cent
2.4

2.3

2.2

2.1

2.0
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

FIGURE 18B: RECREATIONAL, CULTURAL & SPORTING ACTIVITIES SHARE OF REAL GROSS
DOMESTIC PRODUCT, 1998 - 2008

MOTION PICTURE, RADIO, TELEVISION & Theatrical productions declined relative to 2008 (Table 18.2).
OTHER ENTERTAINMENT ACTIVITIES However, real gross sales for the category Motion Picture &
Projects increased by 10.0 per cent. This increase may be
Preliminary General Consumption Tax (GCT) data for 2009 attributed in part to the improved performance by the sole
indicated that there was an overall decline of 7.9 per cent in the producer in 2009.
gross sales of the entertainment categories monitored by the
Planning Institute of Jamaica (Table 18.1). This was influenced Broadcasting
by declines in all categories, except Motion Picture &
Projects, which increased by 10.0 per cent. Of the eight Broadcasting services continued to expand with the
categories (monitored by the Planning Institute of Jamaica) that addition of three limited area radio licences and three
contracted, the largest declines were recorded for: Subscriber Television Licences. The issuing of the new
licences resulted in the total number of limited area radio
– Recording Studios (37.0 per cent); stations increasing to 10 and the total number of radio stations
– Theatrical Producers & Entertainment Services (30.5 increasing to 26. At the end of 2009, the total number of zoned
per cent); and cable operators across the island was 40, while there was one
island-wide provider.
– Video Productions (21.9 per cent).
Amusement Licences4
Cinema, Theatre, Video Production & Motion Picture
Data collected from the Local Authorities indicated that
Gross sales for Theatrical, Producers & Entertainment there was an increase in the number of licences issued by the
Services, fell by 30.5 per cent and was attributed mainly to the various local government authorities. The total number of
fall-off in Entertainment Services. Data collected by the amusement licences issued during 2009 was 17 613, which
Planning Institute of Jamaica indicated that the number of was 1 877 more than the licences issued in 2008 (Table 18.3).
TABLE 18.1
PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN REAL GROSS SALES BY ENTERTAINMENT CATEGORIES
CATEGORIES % Change
09/08
Motion Picture Projections & Other Entertainment Services -8.0
Motion Picture & Projects 10.0
Video Productions -21.9
Record Production -8.1
Recording Studios -37.0
Radio & TV Broadcasting -11.3
Theatrical Producers & Entertainment Services -30.5
Cable TV Services -12.7
Other Entertainment Products & Services -5.8
TOTAL -7.9

Source: Compiled by PIOJ from General Consumption Tax Data

4 An Amusement Licence is required for the hosting of all entertainment activities being held for the benefit of the public.
 18.4

TABLE 18.2
PLAYS & DRAMA PRODUCTIONS STAGED IN 2008 & 2009
2008 2009
Art A Day in the Life of Jamaica - Ah Soh It Go
A Midsummer Night's Dream Bashment Granny 2
A Tempest Backbiter
Aesop V- Fantastic Fables Beauty and the Beast
Bashment Granny 2 Cassandra
Bay Vibez-the MoBay Revue Caught in the Net
Below the Waist Coloured Girls
Boy of the Bay Come Mek Wi Laaf It's Christmas
Cats Diana
Caught in the Net Dream Girls
Concubine Dream Merchant
Cracking Up Easy Street
Dare to be Different Elsewhere in Elsinore-Unseen Women in Hamlet
Di Driver Family Affair
Di Fallen Angel and Di Devil's Concubine For Better or Worse
Double Six Freedom Fe Who?
Flight 11 to Fareign It's A Family Affair
Free at Last Jamaica 2 Rhatid-Pupalick
Gangsta's Mercy Jam Reggae Opera
Jamaica 2 Rhatid-Pupalick Love Letters
Like Father Like Son Pot O' Gold
Love Games Pirate Jack (Pantomime)
Man Fi Get Bun -The Remix Me and Mi Chapsie
Mansong Mi Nah Laugh
Mi Nah Laugh MoBay Vibez
Moon River Money Worries
Nuff an'Plenty (Patomime) No Compromise
Nutten Nah Gwan RRR2K9
River Bottom Runner Boy (Pantomime)
Runner Boy (Pantomime) Season Rice
Season Rice Serious Business
Secrets... Shhh Sheep in Wolf's Clothing
Sheep in Wolf's Clothing She is Royal... but...Which Way is Out?
Since U Sey So Smile Orange
The Perfect Set Up Sweet 16
Uptown Bangarang 2 The Ity & Fancy Cat Show Live
We're at that Age The Ladies Room
She is Royal... but...Which Way is Out? The Xtortionistz
Who Will Sing a Song For Lena? Tick Tock
Wicked Witch Two Can Play
Yes

Source: Compiled by the PIOJ from Advertisements in the Friday editions of the Gleaner and Jamaica Obsever

The growth in the number of licences issued was attributed to
increased issuance in Westmorland (596), St. Mary (497), St.
Thomas (424) and Clarendon (223). The local authority
issuing the highest number of amusement licences for 2009 was
the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation which issued a total
of 4 499 licences. Local authorities in four parishes issued
fewer amusement licences than in 2008: St. Catherine;
Portland; Portmore; and St. Ann.
The total fees associated with the amusement licences
issued in 2009 was $61.0 million compared with $49.4 million
in 2008 (see Table 18.3). The higher revenue reflected
increased collection from all local authorities except in
Portmore; St. Catherine; and Clarendon. The parishes with the
largest increases in revenue were Westmoreland ($3.5 million);
Kingston and St. Andrew ($2.2 million); and St. Elizabeth ($1.8
million).
Loans & Advances to the Entertainment Industry
At the end of December 2009, the outstanding stock of
Loans & Advances to the Entertainment industry at deposit
taking institutions was $552.1 million. This was 25.7 per cent
higher than at the end of December 2008. This higher loan
stock was attributable to the 28.0 per cent increase in the stock
of loans outstanding at commercial banks as the stock of loans
outstanding at Institutions Licensed under the Financial
Institutions Act declined by 13.1 per cent.
S P O RT I N G & O T H E R RE C R E AT I O N AL
AC TIV I T IES
Sports Development Foundation
Total funds received by the Sports Development
Foundation (SDF) was $564.4 million. The main source of
funding for the Foundation was the proceeds from the Gaming
Industry. Total funds received from the Gaming Industry in
2009 was $412.2 million which was 73.0 per cent of total
receipts. Funds totalling $39.9 million was also allocated to the
SDF from the Constituency Development Fund Project for the
 18.5

TABLE 18.3
AMUSEMENT LICENCES & PERMITS GRANTED
# of Licences Fees Collected ($000)

PARISHES 2006 2007 2008 2009 2006 2007 2008 2009

Clarendon 756 686 1 511 1 734 1 806.5 1 597.4 3 225.0 3 168

Kingston & St.Andrew Corporation 2 036 2 463 4 309 4 499 7 120 9 009.5 14 926.3 17 135
Manchester 630 718 1 083 1 260 2 119.5 1 795.0 2 714.8 3 150
St.Elizabeth 1 140 905 1 402 1 606 2 850.6 2 538.9 4 796.0 6 631
Hanover 45 42 288 337 193.0 411.5 824.0 1 138
St.Catherine 1 119 1 314 2 100 1 706 1 981.5 2 397.5 4 676.9 4 502
St.Thomas 562 645 715 1139 1 529.7 1 742.0 1 845.7 3 156
Westmoreland 430 505 714 1 310 1 946.6 2 057.0 4 564.4 8 030
Trelawny 98 212 710 710 249.5 635.8 1 333.0 1 341
Portland 367 309 397 249 1 227.6 1 272.2 1 476.0 1 594
St. Ann 351 392 657 655 2 237.2 2 354.3 3 712.5 4 084
St. James 237 400 788 1 036 1 218.0 1 673.0 2 300.0 2 710
Portmore 271 345 523 900 946.5 1 140.0 1 548.5 3 058
St.Mary n.a n.a 539 472 n.a n.a 1 462.8 1 332

TOTAL 8 042.0 8 936.0 15 736.0 17 613.0 25 426.2 28 624.1 49 405.7 61 033.1

n.a-not available
Source: Parish Councils

implementation of sports infrastructure in the respective
constituencies.
The total value of funds expended on projects funded by the
SDF was $130.4 million (Table 18.4). This was $54.7 million
more than for 2008. The higher expenditure was attributed
mainly to increased spending on Clubhouses; Lighting; and
Fence/Walls. The total value of grants disbursed by the SDF to
the various sporting associations and agencies was $216.7
million, 13.4 per cent more than in 2008 (Table 18.5). This
reflected increased disbursements to most sporting associations
and agencies.
The associations receiving the largest increase in grants were
the Jamaica Amateur Basketball Association and the Jamaica
Amateur Athletic Association which received $5.5 million and
$8.1 million, respectively. Increased allocation to the Jamaica
Amateur Athletic Association was attributed in part to the
preparation of the national team for the 12th International
Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) World Championships,
which was held in Berlin, Germany, from August 15–23,
2009. Jamaica’s performance at the IAAF World
Championships in Berlin was the country’s best performance
which included two world records. Jamaica placed second
with 13 Medals: Seven Gold; Four Silver; and two Bronze.
The agencies receiving the largest increases in grant
disbursements were the Social Development Commission
($4.7 million) and the Institute of Sports ($16.3 million).
Disbursements were also made to the Jamaica Olympic
Association and the Jamaica Umpire Cricket Association
which did not receive grants in 2008 (Table 18.5).

600,000.0

500,000.0

400,000.0
$'000

300,000.0

200,000.0

100,000.0

0.0
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Commercial Banks FIALi cencees Total

FIGURE 18C: STOCK OF LOANS & ADVANCES TO THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY, 2005-2009
 18.6

TABLE 18.4
PROJECTS FUNDED BY SPORTS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION 2005 - 2009
$(Million)
Projects Expenditure 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Courts 33.2 36.7 33.6 41.8 46.1
Fields 1.9 29.8 12.9 18.4 26.0
Fences/Walls 11.2 7.4 3.7 0 12.5
Clubhouses 0.5 0.6 3.1 0 23.1
Lighting 6.7 5.8 0 0 18.4
Seating 1.2 3.6 0 0 0.8
Equipment 0.5 0 0 0 3.5
Miscellaneous 0.5 0.4 10.4 15.5 0
TOTAL 55.7 84.3 63.7 75.7 130.4

Number of Projects
Courts 30 28 27 31 36
Fields 10 10 9 13 25
Fences/Walls 4 22 13 0 34
Clubhouses 2 1 0 0 7
Lighting 4 1 0 0 8
Seating 1 1 0 0 1
Miscellaneous 2 1 1 4 12

Source: Sports Development Foundation Limited

Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) Jamaica Netball Association

For the period November 2008 – October 20095, the JAAA
reported an operating surplus of $4.6 million compared with an
operating deficit of $4.8 million for the previous accounting
year.
Total Operating Income was 31.7 per cent more than for the
previous financial year (Table 18.6). The higher income was
attributed to increased income from all income categories
except for Gate Receipts which fell by 10.0 per cent. The
income categories with the largest increases were Gear Sponsor
and SDF Grants which increased by 34.7 per cent and 92.4 per
cent, respectively.
Total Operating Expenditure was $103.4 million, 19.0 per
cent more than for the previous accounting year (Table 18.7).
The higher expenditure was due mainly to the funds expended
on:
– Regional Competitions - Jamaica was represented in
five regional competitions compared with two in the
previous year;
– Athletes Assistance - this was consistent with the
higher number of competitions; and
– Local Competitions - the total number of local competi-
tions was 24 compared with 15 in 2008.
There was, however, lower levels of expenditure for:
National Championships; the Secretariat Office; and
Seminars/Training. Representatives from the JAAA
participated in a total of six seminars/training programmes
compared with four in the previous accounting year. Five of the
seminars/training programmes were held overseas and one held
in Kingston, Jamaica.
The Jamaica Netball Association hosted five international
teams in 2009, two more than in the previous year. The total
number of patrons attending these events was 16 200, which
was 9 400 more than for 2008. The revenue associated with
hosting the five international teams was $2.7 million relative to
an expenditure of $10.7 million. Total sponsorship for 2009
was valued at $13.0 million compared with $4.7 million in
2008.
Jamaica Football Federation
In January 2009, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF)
launched the Football Coaching School. The school is part of
the JFF’s thrust to improve the level of coaching in the island,
and by extension, the development of football in Jamaica. The
school was established to improve the skills of coaches with
minimal training, physical education teachers with a desire to
upgrade their skills and persons who want to establish a
coaching career. The course comprises 52 hours of instruction
with two modules. Some of the areas covered in the modules
are: nutrition; anatomy; physiology; sports psychology;
methodology of skills teaching; and principles of coaching.
During the year, the JFF also conducted a series of
Administrative Upgrade Course workshops which targeted
football administrators and managers. Some of the areas
covered in these workshops were: club structure growth and
management; competitions planning and management; and
marketing and communications strategy.

5 The Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association’s accounting year commences in November and ends in October.
 18.7

TABLE 18.5
SPORTS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION DISTRIBUTION OF GRANTS 2008 - 2009
($)

ENTITIES 2008 2009

Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association 8 090 800 16 190 800

Jamaica Amateur Basketball Association 3 017 580 8 587 841
Jamaica Amateur Softball Association 640 800 2 000 000
Swimming Association of Jamaica 4 238 832 2 373 832
Jamaica Badminton Association 3 284 000 2 184 000
Jaimaica Boxing Board of Control 1 620 184 1 845 184
Jamaica Chess Federation 565 000 250 000
Jamaica Cricket Association 10 961 200 10 461 200
Jamaica Cycling Federation 2 580 184 1 190 184
Jamaica Equestrian Federation 1 528 800 600 000
Jamaica Domino Bodies 753 000 500 000
Jamaica Golf Association 4 173 500 2 205 550
Jamaica Hockey Federation 2 469 320 2 584 320
Jamaica Lawn Tennis Association 4 889 616 3 389 616
Jamaica Netball Association 8 590 000 9 590 000
Jamaica Rifle Association 448 000 0.00
Jamaica Rugby Union Association 1 746 700 1 227 883
Jamaica Skeet Club Association 665 000 -165 000
Jamaica Ski Federation 165 000 2 220 000
Jamaica Special Olympics Foundation 2 426 816 4 500 000
Jamaica Association of Sports Medicine 501 600 501 600
Jamaica Table Tennis Association 3 611 208 5 690 665
Jamaica Tae Kwon-Do 165 000 300 000
Jamaica Volleyball Association 2 104 800 3 213 360
Jamaica Amateur Bodybuilding Association 848 830 1 064 000
Jamaica Bobsleigh Federation 560 000 2 235 300
Jamaica Paraplegic Association 2 471 800 2 174 800
Jamaica Intercollegiate Sports Association 132 000 -132 000
Jamaica Triathlon Association 154 000 146 000
Jamaica Football Federation 44 000 000 31 860 000
Social Development Commission 10 513 584 15 183 225
Institute of Sports 48 266 572 64 608 800
GC Foster College 7 593 144 8 644 780
Jamaica Surfing Association 1 639 384 939 384
Jamaica Amateur Gymnastic Association 1 652 400 1 952 400
Jamaica Squash Association 250 800 420 000
Jamaica Racing Commission 862 000 600 000
IAAF High Performance Centre 871 200 871 200
Jamaica Visually Imapired Cricket 861 600 1 050 000
Seido Karate Association 450 000 600 000
Muticare Foundation 720 000 720 000
Jamaica Olypmic Association - 1 800 000
Jamaica Umpire Cricket Association - 500 000

Total 191 084 254 216 678 924

Source: Sports Development Foundation Limited

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS & OUTLOOK
Ward Theatre Refurbishment
During 2009, the first phase of the rehabilitation6 work at the
Ward Theatre continued with $20 million from the Tourism
Enhancement Fund being allocated to the work. The first phase
of the work includes roof repair, treatment for termite
infestation, stage repairs, painting and ceiling work.
During 2009, a Centennial Committee was set up to work
in collaboration with the Ward Theatre Foundation. The
responsibility of the Committee has been outlined as planning
and executing a three year plan that will raise enough funds for
the full restoration of the theatre and the re-opening for it 100th
year in December 2012. It is expected that the requisite funds
will be raised from: the private and public sectors; the main
Jamaican Diaspora cities; and domestic and international grant
funding. The Committee’s main funding raising activity over
the period will be monthly centennial celebration events. In
addition to raising funds, these events, which will include

6 The Ward Theatre has been closed since 2007 owing to extensive damage sustained from Hurricanes Ivan (2004) and Dean (2007).
 18.8

TABLE 18.6
JAMAICA AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION INCOME, 2005 - 2009 ($)
% change
Income 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009
2008
Gear Sponsor 28 463 377 28 901 529 31 910 214 34 804 900 46 879 394 34.7
IAAF/NACAC Grants 2 410 361 4 315 136 1 027 328 5 203 732 5 917 842 13.7
Special Equipment Grant - - 1 395 203 - - -
SDF Grants 5 016 000 5 184 380 12 481 199 11 335 700 21 811 873 92.4
Other Sponsors 11 024 700 9 674 776 10 394 780 17 969 385 20 630 576 14.8
Gate / Programme Receipts 2 918 730 483 900 3 185 370 9 062 963 8 153 623 -10.0
Broadcast Rights 685 000 0.0 1 445 000 1 973 324 2 208 690 11.9
Other Income 370 829 187 951 908 103 1 631 013 2 402 750 47.3

Total 50 888 997 48 747 672 62 747 197 81 981 017 10 8004 748 31.7

Source: Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association

TABLE 18.7
JAMAICA AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION EXPENDITURE, 2005 - 2009
% change
Expenditure 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009
2008
Athletes Assistance 2 535 514 2 894 182 3 160 442 4 899 626 8 058 951 64.5
National Championships 7 675 948 4 269 998 6 366 796 13 315 672 10 612 270 -20.3
Secretariat Office 2 350 488 2 257 389 3 103 322 6 220 478 5 764 567 -7.3
Competitions:
Local 1 439 929 1 502 844 974 430 15 306 173 17 656 791 15.4
Regional 12 016 940 13 454 860 18 040 062 17 365 184 24 434 593 40.7
International 21 935 056 13 241 614 20 891 780 20 170 212 20 306 710 0.7
Cross Country (World/CAC) 804 250 3 720 877 1 012 257 189 790 1 477 413 678.4
Training Camps 595 635 876 507 - -
Seminars / Training 407 264 483 224 214 433 845 290 569 804 -32.6
Other Expenses 4 111 130 8 774 374 7 675 197 8 044 003 13 742 346 70.8
Barrientos Games 571 735
JAAA Special Project 392 250 489 915 747 207 52.5
Total Expenditure 53 872 154 51 475 869 62 402 704 86 846 343 103 370 652 19.0

Source: Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association

large concerts, art shows and auctions, will be used to heighten
patrons’ awareness of the Ward Theatre’s importance to
Jamaica’s cultural history.
National Stadium Swimming Pool
It is anticipated that private and public sector investment in
sporting infrastructure will continue in 2010, particularly as
Jamaica prepares to host the 25th CARIFTA Swimming
Championships which will be held during the period April 3–6,
2010. It is anticipated that a total of 300 athletes from 17
countries will be participating in swimming, water polo and
synchronized swimming events. The hosting of the event will
be funded by both private and public sector funding. The
Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture through the Sports
Development Foundation will provide the requisite funding
for the renovation and preparation of the National Stadium
pools which have been closed for repair work since May 2009,
while the private sector will provide accommodation,
communication, internet services and the requisite technology
for the event.n
CHAPTER 19

WHOLESALE & RETAIL TRADE;

REPAIR AND INSTALLATION OF
MACHINERY
INTRODUCTION economic prospects. Consistent with this outlook the

R eal value added for the Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair
and Installation of Machinery industry (WRTRIM) de-
clined by 1.2 per cent and contributed 19.3 per cent to overall GDP
during 2009. The lower value of output was attributed to a decline
in gross sales as the industry was adversely impacted by the inten-
sification of the global financial and economic crisis on the do-
mestic economy. The lower sales were due to: (i) a slow down in
activities within domestic industries linked to the WRTRIM in-
dustry, namely Construction and Manufacture; (ii) exchange rate
depreciation; and (iii) lower consumer demand. Purchasing
power was constrained by:
— reductions in remittance inflows;
— declines in real incomes;
— increased unemployment levels; and
— a reduction in the stock of loans and advances extended
by commercial banks for personal consumption.
There was a reduction in both the Consumer and Business
confidence indices. Consumers reported a bleak outlook for the
Jamaican economy due to the expectation of worsening job
prospects and smaller income gains. Firms were largely
concerned about the current investment climate as well as future
spending plans of consumers and firms were delayed,
particularly for high expenditure items.
Reduced activities in the industry occurred despite
increases of 20.1 per cent and 27.7 per cent in the volume
and value respectively, of Automatic Banking Machines &
Point of Sales transactions.
Analysis of preliminary General Consumption Tax
(GCT) returns indicated that five of the nine goods
categories reported lower sales. These were: Furniture,
Furnishings, Office Equipment & Jewellery; Automobiles,
Commercial & Transport Equipment; Food, Beverages &
Tobacco; Hardware, Building Supplies & Electrical Goods;
and Electronics, Musical & Photographic Equipment.
POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES
Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce
(MIIC)
The Ministry of Industry, Investment, and Commerce
regulates the WRTRIM industry largely through the: Fair
Tr a d in g C o mmi s si o n ( F TC ) ; C o n s u me r A ff a ir s

3.0
2.5
2.0
1.5
PER CENT

1.0
0.5
0.0
-0.5
-1.0
-1.5
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

FIGURE 19A: REAL VALUE ADDED GROWTH OF WHOLESALE & RETAIL TRADE; REPAIR AND INSTAL-
LATION OF MACHINERY
19.2

TABLE 19.1
OUTPUT AND EMPLOYMENT TRENDS IN DISTRIBUTION, 2005-2009
2005r 2006r 2007r 2008r 2009
Contribution to GDP (%) 18.0 17.9 17.9 19.0 19.3
WRTRIM Growth Rate (%) 1.4 2.2 1.7 -0.2 -1.2
Overall GDP Growth (%) 1.0 2.7 1.4 -0.4 -2.7
Persons Employed 217 425 224 475 217 500 223 375 214 800
Share of Total Employment (%) 15.7 15.4 14.6 19.2 19.1
GDP per worker (constant 2003 prices, $) 424 650 420 548 441 562 429 224 440 996

r - revised
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica and Planning Institute of Jamaica

Commission (CAC); Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ); and
Trade Board Limited.
Key policy objectives of the Ministry included: (i) protecting
consumers in a liberalized market characterized by a high degree
of competitiveness; and (ii) ensuring that goods traded on the
domestic market comply with specified standards. In this regard,
programmes and initiatives undertaken during the year, included:
Regional Consumers’ International/ADB Project –
Launched in November 2009, this three-year project focuses on
strengthening capacity of consumer organizations and
government agencies in the Caribbean region1; strengthening
technical capacity in the area of banking and credit for
non-government consumer agencies and enhancing consumer
education. This project is being implemented by Consumers
International, with co-funding from the Inter-American
Development Bank.
Jamaica National Agency for Accreditation (JANAAC) –
Launched in June 2009, JANAAC was established to ensure that
assessment entities such as laboratories, certification bodies and
other inspection authorities conform to international standards, in
areas such as technical regulations, certification and testing, as
well as measurement and inspection. Their mandate is to ensure
that Jamaican businesses produce and trade goods and
services that meet international standards.
Fair Trading Commission (FTC)
For 2009 its priority areas included:
— the dissemination of information to all relevant
stakeholders on matters of significance to fair
competition;
— increased focus on matters that raise competition
concerns in markets, thereby encouraging com-
pet i tive mar kets and im prov ing con sumer
welfare;
— guidance to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs &
Foreign Trade and CARICOM on issues relating
to competition law and policy within the region;
and
— capacity building of the staff.
To enhance transparency and uniformity in the conduct
of investigations, the FTC revised its internal procedural
guidelines.

TABLE 19.2
CASES INVESTIGATED AND COMPLETED BY THE FTC 2008-2009
2008r 2009
BREACH/INVESTIGATIION RECEIVED INVESTIGATED RESOLVEDr RECEIVED INVESTIGATED RESOLVED

Abuse of Dominant Position 0 0 0 0 0 0

Misleading Advertisement 123 541 357 116 298 219
Double Ticketing 1 2 1 0 0 0
Market Restriction 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sale Above Advertised Price 3 1 1 2 6 5
Tied Selling 1 2 1 2 3 2
Other Offences Against Competition 18 96 18 9 89 54
Investigation Initiated by the FTC 0 0 0 0 0 0
Application for Authorization 0 0 0 0 0 0
Request for Information Opinion from FTC 1 22 14 1 10 10
Not Covered by the FTC 0 55 32 34 58 49
Failure to Supply at Bargin Price 13 0 0 0 1 1

TOTAL 177 724 424 164 465 340

Source: Fair Trading Commission

1 This project is to be implemented in Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago.

 19.3

TABLE 19.3
CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMISSION PERFORMANCE INDICATORS, 2007-2009
2007 2008 2009 Percentage
Change
2009/2008
Complaints Received 1 601 1 502 1 947 29.6
Complaints Handled 1 823 1 630 2 158 32.4
Complaints Settled 1 584 1 476 1 908 29.3
Consumer Advice 2 438 2 508 2 333 -7.0
Monies Secured ($M) 33.6 19.8 25.3 27.8
Surveys 41 76 78 2.6

Source: Consumer Affairs Commission

During the year, the FTC received 164 complaints, relative to
177 received in 2008 (Table 19.2). The most common breach was
Misleading Advertising, with 116 complaints, followed by Not
Covered by the FTC (34) and Other Offences Against
Competition (9) (Table 19.2). Similar to 2008, the largest number
of complaints was made against Telecommunication firms (54
complaints). This was followed by firms selling Household
Appliances & Accessories (14 complaints) and by firms dealing in
Automobile (12 complaints).
Cases investigated by the FTC totalled 4652, which was 254
less than in the previous year. Of this number, Misleading
Advertising accounted for 298 (64.0 per cent); Offences Against
Competition, 89 (19.0 per cent); and Not Under the Act, 58 (12.5
per cent). The industries with the highest number of investigations
were: Telecommunications (88 cases); Automobile (44 cases);
Household Appliances & Accessories (22 cases); and
Construction/Home Repair Supplies (18 cases).
The FTC resolved 340 cases, compared with 424 during 2008.
Of this total 219 were related to the breach Misleading
Advertisement, 54 related to Other Offences Against Competition
and 49 were related to cases Not Covered by the FTC (see Table
19.2).
Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC)
In carrying out its mandate to inform, educate and
empower consumers to protect themselves in the
marketplace, the CAC continued to:
— educate consumers on their rights and responsi-
bilities through the media;
— act as an intermediary between purchasers and
vendors, investigating grievances filed by con-
sumers against vendors; and
— monitor price movements and availability of
specified products in the market, through regular
meetings with industry interests3 and a number of
surveys as follows:
¯ grocery and agricultural produce price – 49;
¯ hardware items – 12;
¯ school textbook – 1;
¯ petrol – 2; and

Other Services,
19.7% Electrical
Equipment &
Appliance, 30.1%
Cable Services,
4.3%

Furniture, 4.8% Motor Vehicles &

Parts, 10.8%

Computer &
Computer Parts,
5.3% Utilities, 10.2%
Jewellery,
Clothing &
Hardware Items, Kitchenware,
6.0% 7.8%

FIGURE 19B: COMPLAINTS RECEIVED BY THE CAC BY CATEGORY, 2009

2 This figure includes cases received from previous years.

3 In 2009 the CAC served as the Secretariat to 12 meetings of distributive trade interests – producers, distributors and consumer interests.
19.4
¯ other – 4 (E-10 gasoline, chicken prices, banking,
used car dealers).
Utilizing the print media4, the prices of basic grocery items
were published bi-monthly while petrol prices were published
monthly.
For 2009, the CAC received a total of 1 947 complaints,
relative to 1 502 in the preceding year (Table 19.3). Complaints
received related to: (i) contractual issues of items sold,
manufactured or delivered and installed; and (ii) services
provided. Of the total, the majority was for Electrical Equipment
& Appliances (30.1 per cent); followed by Other Services5 (19.7
per cent); Motor Vehicles & Parts (10.8 per cent); and Jewellery,
Clothing & Kitchenware (7.8 per cent) (Figure 17B). The number
of complaints handled stood at 2 158, this was 528 more than the
number for 2008. The CAC settled 1 908 complaints for the year,
resulting in a resolution rate of 90.5 per cent, the same as recorded
for the previous year. A total of $25.3 million in compensation
was secured on behalf of consumers, 27.8 per cent more than in
2008.
Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ)
The Bureau of Standards Jamaica is the agency responsible for
ensuring that goods and services sold are in compliance with
standard regulations. Additionally, it enforces compliance to
technical regulations for those commodities and practices which
affect health and safety. In 2009 work continued on the upgrade of
legislation governing the BSJ. These were the:
— Standards Act 1968 – the Draft Policy Statement and
Recommendations for the new Standards Act was re-
viewed by the Standards Council; and
— Weights & Measures Act 1976 – the Draft Policy State-
ment and Recommendations for the new Metrology
Act6 was 50.0 per cent complete.
Through the Standards Compliance Programme the BSJ
monitored goods and services sold, ensuring that they conform to
both local and international standards. During 2009,
approximately 16 071 site visits were made, compared with
13 308 in 2008. Sites inspected included:
— Ports of Entry – inspection of imported goods at APM
Terminals, Kingston Wharves, Norman Manley Inter-
national Airport, Montego Bay Freeport, Seaboard
Freight and Cold Storages;
— Domestic Market – supermarkets, pharmacies, furni-
ture and department stores, importers’ warehouses;
— Factories – inspection of food processing establish-
ments; and
— Legal Metrology – gas stations and food factories.
The BSJ inspected 7 554 consignments at the Ports of Entry
and Importers’ Warehouses, of which 348 were detained. In the
Domestic Market 166 093 units were withdrawn, out of the
459 527 inspected. Items withdrawn or detained7 included:
4 Refers to the Gleaner, the Observer and the Western Mirror.
5 Other Services include complaints related to the following groups: food & beverages; chemicals; pharmaceuticals; and petroleum products.
It also includes complaints with respect to difficulties in making payments.
6 The Metrology Act will replace the Weights & Measures Act (1976).
7 Products withdrawn from sale for label breaches are rehabilitated before they are re-offered for sale. Those detained are rehabilitated if
possible, if beyond correction however, they are either re-exported or destroyed.
8 Effective June 1, 2010, only electronically submitted manifests will be processed.
— Garments – for no label, care instructions, mate-
rial composition or country of origin;
— Footwear – for no material composition, label or
country of origin;
— Food items – such as confectionery, baked prod-
ucts, juices etc. – for no date mark or coded date
mark, inadequate traceable addresses, no country
of origin, or for being expired;
— Toilet tissue and appliances – such as fans for
conformance testing to the relevant standards.
Trade Board Limited (TBL)
The Trade Board is the agency responsible for the
issuing of import and export licences for specific items. The
TBL received approximately 10 038 applications for
licences, 6 776 or 40.3 per cent less than received in 2008.
During 2009, a total of 10 104 permits were approved,
relative to 17 391 in the previous year. Of the total import
permits approved, 9 249 permits were issued for the
importation of Motor Vehicles. The number of motor
vehicles approved for import during 2009 was 12 151
compared with 21 802 units in 2008.
Of the licences granted, 406 were issued for the
importation of sugar, relative to 403 for 2008. This resulted
in the approval for import of 84 015 metric tonnes, 20 792
more than in the previous year. The number of permits
issued for the importation of milk powder decreased from
101 issued in 2008 to 82. The TBL approved the import of
14 142 metric tonnes of milk powder compared with the
approval of 5 483 metric tonnes in 2008.
The number of permits issued for the importation of
firearms/explosives/ammunition increased by 29 to 118.
There were also increases in the number of licences granted
to import Gaming Machines and Chemicals which increased
by 34 to 147 and 28 to 67 respectively.
Jamaica Customs
Given WRTRIM’s high import content, its business
environment is impacted by customs and cargo handling
procedures. The Jamaica Customs Department, as part of its
thrust to provide faster and more reliable service to its
customers, implemented 8 the E-Manifest System in
conjunction with Fiscal Services Limited. This
internet-based system facilitates the electronic submission
of shipping manifests and offers tracking services.
Industry Composition
Preliminary GCT data revealed that approximately 87.0
per cent of total sales was accounted for by Medium & Large
Enterprises (Figure 19C), 11.0 per cent by Medium firms
and 2.0 per cent by Micro Enterprises. Of the firms filing
GCT returns approximately 53.0 per cent was Micro
 19.5

Micro, 2.0%
Small, 11.0%

Medium &
Large, 87.0%

FIGURE 19C: SHARE OF TOTAL SALES BY FIRMS FILING GCT RETURNS IN THE WHOLESALE & RE-
TAIL TRADE AND INSTALLATION OF MACHINERY INDUSTRY, 2009

Medium &
Large, 14%

Small, 33%
Micro, 53%

FIGURE 19D: COMPOSITION OF FIRMS IN WRTRIM, 2009

Enterprises, 33.0 per cent Small Firms and 14.0 per cent Medium
& Large Enterprises (Figure 19D).
PERFORMANCE
Distributors operated in challenging economic conditions,
characterized by:
— a decline in domestic economic activity – there was
lower output from most industries, lower aggregate de-
mand, declines in trade and tightened financial condi-
tions. This adversely impacted the WRTRIM industry
particularly through the decline in industries linked to
the WRTRIM industry, through inter-industry linkages
specifically from Construction and Manufacture;
— a contraction in purchasing power – the ability of
consumers to purchase goods was stymied by
several factors which included: (a) an 11.4 per
cent fall in remittance inflows; (b) the 1.8 per cent
reduction in the stock of loans and advances dis-
bursed by commercial banks for consumption
purposes; (c) the increase in unemployment lev-
els to 11.4 per cent9; and (d) a decline in real
incomes;
— lower business and consumer confidence – The
Jamaica Conference Board Survey of Consumer
and Business Confidence indicated average de-
clines in the indices of 30.0 per cent and 11.7 per
cent, respectively. Consumer confidence was im-

9 This was the highest rate recorded in five years.

19.6

pacted by, among other factors, worsened job prospects
and reductions in expected income gains. Firms re-
ported declines in profits and uncertainty about future
economic prospects. Consequently both consumers
and firms delayed their spending plans.
In addition, distributors revealed that margins were adversely
impacted by increased input costs and exchange rate
depreciation10.
Gross Sales of Registered Firms
Analysis of preliminary General Consumption Tax data
revealed that five of the nine Goods categories reflected a decline
in sales. Those reporting lower sales were: Food, Beverages &
Tobacco; Hardware, Building Supplies & Electrical Goods;
Automobiles, Commercial & Transport Equipment; Furniture,
Furnishings, Office Equipment & Jewellery; and Electronics,
Musical & Photographic Equipment (Table 19.4).
Distributors of Furniture, Furnishings, Office Equipment &
Jewellery recorded the largest decline in sales of 26.6 per cent.
This reflected the 37.6 per cent decrease in the sales of Furniture,
Furnishings & Household Equipment. This decline was enough
to offset the increase in the sales of Jewellery, Watches & Clocks.
Sales of Automobiles, Commercial & Transport Equipment
declined by 11.4 per cent. Consistent with lower sales in this
category was the 35.1 per cent reduction in the value of imports of
Machinery & Transport Equipment for 2009 relative to 2008.
This reflected respective declines of 11.3 per cent and 12.2 per
cent in the sales by distributors of Motor Vehicles, Auto Parts &
Accessories and distributors of Industrial, Commercial &
Agriculture Machinery. Within the subcategory Motor Vehicles,
Auto Parts & Accessories, all components with the exception of
Importers of Auto Parts reported a reduction in sales. These
were: Wholesalers of Auto Parts & Accessories (9.3 per
cent); Wholesalers of Motor Vehicles, Auto Parts &
Accessories (17.1 per cent); Retailers of Motor Vehicles &
Auto Parts (12.2 per cent); and Importers of Motor Vehicles
(7.7 per cent). Reductions were attributed to lower
disposable income and postponement of spending plans,
particularly for high expenditure items.
The Food, Beverages & Tobacco category fell by 7.8 per
cent. Lower sales reflected declines of 9.5 per cent and 14.6
per cent in the imports of Food and Beverages & Tobacco
respectively, for 2009 relative to the preceding year, and
were reported for:
— General Groceries (10.3 per cent);
— Baked Products & Sugar Confectionery (13.7 per
cent); and
— Agriculture Products, Seafood, Meat & Eggs (1.5
per cent).
Lower sales of Baked Products & Sugar Confectionery
may partially be attributed to the reduction in demand as
consumers respond to price increases, due mainly to the rise
in sugar prices internationally. These declines were
constrained by the expansion in Beverages and Agriculture
Products, Seafood, Meat & Eggs.
Consistent with the decline in the Construction industry,
there was a 6.6 per cent decrease in the gross sales of
Hardware, Building Supplies & Electrical Goods. This
stemmed from respective declines of 22.3 per cent and 3.65
per cent in the sales of Lumber & Building Materials and
General Hardware & Building Materials. Together these

TABLE 19.4
GROWTH IN GROSS SALES IN WHOLESALE & RETAIL TRADE; REPAIRS & INSATALLATION OF
MACHINERY, 2008-2009
Goods Category Sales Growth (%) Per Cent of Sales (%)
2008 2009 2008 2009

Food, Beverages & Tobacco -4.9 -7.8 16.8 16.6

Minerals, Fuels, Lubricants & Petroleum Products 4.5 9.5 20.2 21.6

Hardware, Building Supplies & Electrical Goods 5.3 -6.6 10.3 8.7

Automobiles, Commercial & Transport Equipment -2.4 -11.4 8.3 7.5

Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics 10.9 24.0 7.5 9.3

Textiles, Clothing & Shoes -11.7 3.6 1.4 1.3

Furniture, Furnishings, Office Equipment & Jewellery -24.3 -26.6 1.8 1.9

Electronics, Musical & Photographic Equipment -1.7 -2.6 2.3 2.3

Other Manufactured Goods 2.5 3.4 32.8 33.5

TOTAL 0.1 -1.2 100 100

Source: Estimated based on GCT data from the Taxpayer Audit & Assessment Department

10 Exchange rate depreciation during the year was concentrated in the first quarter, when the rate was 9.4 per cent. Quarterly depreciation for
the remainder of the year was less than 1.0 per cent in each quarter. This resulted in an annual depreciation of 10.2 per cent.

subcategories accounted for approximately 95.0 per cent of total
sales reported for the category. There was a 6.1 per cent increase
in the sales of Electrical Equipment.
There was a 2.6 per cent reduction in the sales of Electronics,
Musical & Photographic Equipment. This was the result of
declines in the sales of:
— Radio, Television, Electronics, Musical & Photo-
graphic Equipment (6.6 per cent);
— Computers & Computer Accessories (2.5 per cent);
— Office Equipment & Supplies (2.1 per cent); and
— Cellular Phones & Accessories (0.9 per cent).
Of the four categories recording higher sales, the largest
out-turn was reported for Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals &
Cosmetics (24.0 per cent) (see Table 19.4). This was the result of
increases in Distributors of Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals &
Cosmetics (24.6 per cent) and Industrial & Non-Industrial
Chemicals (9.8 per cent).
Preliminary GCT data indicated that distributors of Minerals,
Fuels, Lubricants & Petroleum recorded a 9.5 per cent increase.
The contributors to this out-turn were Distributors of
Petroleum/Gasoline and Cooking Gas for Domestic & Industrial
Purposes which increased by 9.6 per cent and 20.7 per cent,
respectively. These increases outweighed the 11.2 per cent
decline in the sales of Lubricant Oil & Gases.
Gross sales of Other Manufactured Goods rose by 3.4 per
cent. This reflected increases by the distributors of Other
Manufactured Items (7.0 per cent) and Stationery & Office
Equipment, Books & Magazines (2.0 per cent). Combined, these
subcategories accounted for approximately 71.0 per cent of total
sales of the category. The out-turn of this category was
constrained by lower sales by: General Importers & Exporters
(3.4 per cent); Multipurpose Stores (1.2 per cent); In-bond Stores
(7.1 per cent); Athletic Sports & Recreational Goods (15.3 per
cent); Informal Commercial Importers (17.5 per cent); and Gift
Shops, Craft & Arcade Vendors (1.8 per cent).
Sales of Textiles, Clothing & Shoes increased by 3.6 per cent.
This was driven by higher sales for Distributors of Footwear
(only) and Clothes (only), by 4.2 per cent and 13.8 per cent,
respectively.
Employment
Reflective of the downturn in the industry, approximately
214 800 persons were employed during 2009, this was 8 575 less
than in the previous year. Of the total, approximately 55.0 per cent
TABLE 19.5
LOANS & ADVANCES OUTSTANDING TO FIRMS IN WRTRIM AND TO CONSUMERS, 2007-2009
$ Million
2007 2008
Commercial Bank Loans to:
Distribution 18 728.7 23 100.0
Consumers 73 748.1 90 863.5
F.I.A. Institutions to:
Distribution 1 763.0 1 277.0
Consumers 2 768.0 2 451.0
19.7
was female, the same as in the previous year. The average
value added per worker stood at $440 996, compared with
$429 375 in 2008 (Table 19.1).
Credit
The stock of loans and advances to distributors by
commercial banks stood at $25.5 billion at the end of
December 2009. This was 10.4 per cent higher than at the
end of December 2008. Disbursements for the purpose of
Personal Consumption declined by 1.8 per cent to $89.3
billion (Table 19.5).
Total disbursement to distributors by Institutions
licensed under the Financial Institutions Act (FIA
Institutions) was $1 184 million, 7.8 per cent lower than in
2008. Consumer loans totalled $2 410 million, a 35.8 per
cent decline compared with the previous year.
Imports
For 2009, imports were valued at US$5 066 million, a
39.4 per cent decline relative to 2008. This reduction
reflected: (i) lower commodity prices associated with the
global economic and financial crisis; and (ii) a fall in
domestic consumer demand. Import groups recording the
largest reduction in value were:
— Mineral Fuels (58.4 per cent);
— Animal & Vegetable Oils & Fats (37.2 per cent);
— Manufactured Goods (37.1 per cent);
— Machinery and Transport Equipment (35.1 per
cent); and
— Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles (32.3 per
cent).
GLOBAL WHOLESALE & RETAIL TRADE
Wholesale & Retail trading activities globally were
adversely impacted by the intensification of the global
economic and financial crisis and its impact on demand.
Wholesale and retail trade in the US was constrained by the
0.6 per cent decline in Personal Consumption Expenditures.
This was the result of declines of 4.0 per cent and 1.0 per cent
in expenditures on durable and non-durable goods,
respectively. Japan’s distributive activities were stymied by
declines in: Private Consumption (0.7 per cent); Residential
Investment (12.4 per cent); and Non-residential Investment
(19.7 per cent). In the United Kingdom, value added of the
Per Cent Change
2009 2007 2008 2009
25 497.0 38.0 23.3 10.4
89 255.0 31.8 23.2 -1.8
1 184.0 -5.9.0 -27.6 7.8
2 410.0 39.5 -11.5 -35.8
Source: Bank of Jamaica
19.8
Distribution, Hotels & Restaurants Repairs industry fell by 4.6 per
cent.
Within the Chinese market, total sales of consumer goods
increased by 15.5 per cent. Among the commodities recording
higher sales were clothing, shoes, hats, textiles, furniture and
automobiles.
OUTLOOK
In the first half of 2010 the industry is expected to be adversely
impacted by the continued weak performance of industries linked
to WRTRIM. Consumer demand will remain subdued, due in part
to the contractionary effect of the tax package to be implemented
in January 2010. The out-turn of the industry is expected to
improve in the latter half of the year. This is predicated on the
benefits to be derived from projected increases in domestic
economic activity.
It is anticipated that the successful completion of the Jamaica
Debt Exchange programme, a prior action for the signing of an
IMF Standby Agreement, will result in a reduction in interest rates
which will translate to a decline in the cost of capital and
improvement in the purchasing power of consumers.
For 2010, efforts will be made to enhance the regulatory
framework of the industry. During the year, the CAC plans
to: (i) undertake a survey to determine the effect of the
introduction of E-10; and (ii) introduce an enhanced
technological tool to assess grocery basket comparisons
across the island.
Goals set by the FTC for 2010 include:
— increased emphasis on the enforcement of the
provisions of the Fair Competition Act through
the judicial system;
— industry studies to demonstrate the benefits of
competitive markets in an effort to promote better
understanding of the role and function of the FTC
in fostering a competitive economic
environment; and
— continued advice to policymakers on the implica-
tions of existing and proposed policies and their
compliance with competition law.¢
CHAPTER 20

POPULATION

INTRODUCTION Development Goals (MDGs) and other internationally agreed

development goals.

P opulation is widely recognized as being more than just

numbers. Emphasis is placed on examining the numbers
and analysing the interactions between fertility, mortality and
migration and their implications for development. The dynamics
of population growth, size, structure and distribution have be-
come increasingly prominent in the formulation, monitoring and
evaluation of policies, plans and programmes. Failure to take
population variables into consideration can result in misdirected
and misguided policies, plans and programmes. Furthermore,
population variables impact the achievement of the Millennium
Jamaica is currently at an intermediate stage of the
demographic transition. The changes in Jamaica’s population
are consistent with the changing age structures of any
population at this stage — a declining 0–14 age group, and
increasing working age population (15–64) and dependent
elderly age group (65+). Movements in fertility and mortality
rates have further resulted in a decline in the rate of natural
increase which was 9.8 per 1 000 in 2009, the lowest ever
reported (Table 20.1). The annual population growth rate has
remained consistently below 1.0 per cent since 1998 and is

TABLE 20.1
POPULATION GROWTH STATISTICS,1995-2009
NUMBERS RATES (PER
1 000 POPULATION)

Crude Crude Rate of Annual

Natural Net Birth Death Natural Rate of
Population Net Increase increase Rate Rate increase Growth in
at the end Mean Live External col(4) - col(7) + col(4)/ col(5)/ col (9)- percentages
Year of year Population Births Deaths Movements Col (5) Col (6) Col (3) Col (3) col(10) col(8)/col(3)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1995 2 498 000 2 483 000 63 500 15 400 -18 100 48 100 30 000 25.6 6.2 19.4 1.2
1996 2 521 700 2 509 900 57 400 15 800 -18 500 41 600 23 100 22.9 6.3 16.6 1.0
1997 2 546 700 2 534 100 59 400 15 100 -19 000 44 300 25 300 23.4 6.0 17.5 1.0
1998 2 566 900 2 556 800 48 100 17 000 -19 700 31 100 11 300 18.8 6.6 12.2 0.8
1999 2 581 700 2 574 300 52 500 18 200 -22 400 34 300 12 000 20.4 7.1 13.3 0.6
2000 2 597 100 2 589 400 56 100 17 400 -23 300 38 700 15 500 21.7 6.7 15.0 0.6
2001 2 611 100 2 604 100 49 500 17 800 -24 000 31 700 7 800 19.0 6.8 12.2 0.5
2002 2 619 400 2 615 200 48 600 17 000 -25 900 31 600 5 800 18.6 6.5 12.1 0.3
2003 2 632 000 2 625 700 47 100 16 700 -17 900 30 400 12 700 17.9 6.4 11.5 0.5
2004 2 644 100 2 638 100 47 100 16 900 -18 200 30 200 12 300 17.9 6.4 11.5 0.5
2005 r 2 656 700 2 650 400 47 300 17 600 -17 200 29 700 12 500 17.8 6.6 11.2 0.5
2006 r 2 669 500 2 663 100 46 300 16 300 -17 100 30 000 12 900 17.4 6.1 11.3 0.5
2007 r 2 682 100 2 675 800 45 600 17 000 -16 000 28 600 12 700 17.0 6.4 10.6 0.5
2008 r 2 692 400 2 687 200 44 800 17 000 -17 600 27 800 10 200 16.7 6.3 10.4 0.4
2009 p 2 698 800 2 695 600 44 000 17 600 -20 000 26 400 6 400 16.3 6.5 9.8 0.2

a. Figures in cols. 2 - 8 are approximated to the nearest hundred. Discrepancies are due to rounding.
b. Births and Deaths are based on events occurring in the year and registered up to 12 months after. However, births and deaths for 1998-2007 are
adjusted for under coverage by STATIN. Data for 2008 and 2009 are estimated by STATIN.
c. Net External Movement is a proxy measure for Emigration and is based on movements of Jamaican nationals to and from the island in any given year.

d. Discrepancies are due to rounding.

e. All data are provisional and subject to change.
r - revised
p - provisional

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN).

 20.2

TABLE 20.2a
DISTRIBUTION OF WOMEN IN THE REPRODUCTIVE
AGES (15-49) ESTIMATES, 2005-2009

AGE NUMBERS PERCENTAGES

GROUP 2005r 2006 2007 2008 2009 2005r 2006 2007 2008 2009

15-19 123 300 122 800 122 300 121 400 121 800 17.1 16.9 16.6 16.4 16
20-24 108 700 108 200 107 800 106 900 107 200 15.1 14.9 14.6 14.4 14
25-29 111 200 112 000 112 800 113 200 113 200 15.5 15.4 15.3 15.3 15
30-34 111 400 113 300 115 200 116 700 117 700 15.5 15.6 15.7 15.7 16
35-39 110 800 114 000 117 100 119 800 122 200 15.4 15.7 15.9 16.1 16
40-44 90 000 92 600 95 100 97 300 99 200 12.6 12.7 12.9 13.1 13
45-49 63 400 64 700 66 000 67 100 68 000 8.8 8.8 9.0 9.0 9

TOTAL 718 800 727 600 736 300 742 400 749 300 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

GFR 65.8 63.6 61.9 60.3 58.7

r-revised
Note: Discrepancies due to rounding
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN)

reported at 0.2 per cent in 2009. The population, at the end of
2009, was estimated at 2 698 800.
POPULATION GROWTH
Population growth is influenced by the interactions of births,
deaths and migration. This interaction is observed through
increments of births and immigration which are offset by
decrements of deaths and emigration. Births were estimated
at 44 0001 and deaths at 17 600. This resulted in a natural increase
of 26 400. Net external movements2 of 20 000 contributed to a
net population growth of 6 400. This represented a decline of
37.2 per cent relative to 2008 and the lowest net increase since
2002 (see Table 20.1).
Fertility
The estimate of births at 44 000 equates to a Crude Birth Rate
(CBR) of 16.3 births per 1 000 population. This represented a
decline of 2.4 per cent relative to 2008, and a continuation of the
declining trend (see Table 20.1). There were approximately
749 300 women in the reproductive age group which reflected a
General Fertility Rate (GFR)3 of 58.7 births per 1 000 women
compared with 60.3 births in 2008 (Table 20.2a). The continued
decline in the GFR (see Table 20.2a) is indicative of the overall
reduction in the number of births occurring despite the increase
in the number of women of reproductive age.
The National Family Planning Board (NFPB) continued to
pursue programmes geared towards addressing reproductive
health (RH) and family planning (FP). These initiatives were in
the following areas: advocacy and policy; service delivery,
training; health promotion for behaviour change; and
research, evaluation and management of information
systems.
NFPB continued its efforts to reduce the number of
unplanned pregnancies and the Total Fertility Rate to 2.2 by
2010. Interventions were introduced to ensure good RH
outcomes through the provision of high quality, voluntary
health and family life education services. Services were
targeted at guaranteeing rights; informing and empowering
women in all aspects of their lives; and encouraging men to be
responsible partners.
NFPB reported that among new acceptors attending
family planning clinics in public sector institutions, the
Injection4 remained the most popular choice of contraceptive
method, accounting for 48.4 per cent of new acceptors in
20095. The Pill (25.7 per cent) and the Male Condom (21.7
per cent) were also among the popular choices of
contraceptive methods. However, there was a 1.8 percentage
point reduction in the new acceptors of condoms. A relatively
small proportion (2.4 per cent) of new acceptors used the
Norplant and Intrauterine Device (IUD) (Table 20.2b). A total
of 803 female sterilizations were performed in public sector
health facilities between the months of January to June 2009
compared with 1 765 in 2008. In addition, 1.8 per cent of new
acceptors of a contraceptive method used the Emergency
Contraception Pill (ECP) (see Table 20.2b).
The NFPB continued its information and counselling
services which were accessed through: the television
magazine programme TEEN SEEN; the RETV school tour
which focused on promoting abstinence; the NFPB Library;
the Marge Roper Counselling Service (telephone hotline,

1 Estimates of births and deaths from STATIN.

2 Net external movements are based on net arrivals and departures of Jamaicans whether travelling temporarily or permanently
overseas.
3 The General Fertility Rate (GFR) is a measure that relates total births to the number of women in the reproductive age group, 15–49
years.
4 The Injection referred to is Depro-provera.
5 Data reported for 2009 reflect the months of January–June.
 20.3

TABLE 20.2b
UTILIZATION AND COVERAGE OF PUBLIC SECTOR FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES, 2005-2009

INDICATORS 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009e

Estimated population for family planning 495 927 502 044 508 047 512 256 517 378
Attendance at family planning clinics 265 919 258 083 258 013 258 418 151 378
Number of family planning users (per annum) 62 870 84 144 84 135 84 036 91 967
Number of new acceptors 35 627 38 018 38 616 39 434 21 614
Number of new acceptors as a % of total users 56.7 45.0 46.0 47.0 23.5
New acceptors < 20 yrs. of age as a % of new acceptors 20.0 19.0 19.0 18.5 n/a
New acceptors as a percentage of target population 7.2 7.6 7.6 7.7 4.2
Male attendance as a % of total attendance 7.0 7.4 7.0 7.9 9.0

Percentage distribution of new acceptors by method

Pill 25.9 25.3 23.2 23.4 25.7
Injection (DMPA) 49.0 49.7 49.2 50.8 48.4
Male Condom 23.4 23.0 25.4 23.5 21.7
Norplant & IUD 1.7 2.0 2.2 2.3 2.4
Emergency Contraception Pill (ECP) - - - - 1.8

TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Number of sterilisations (female) 2 737 1 655 1 977 1 765 803

e - estimated. Data reported for 2009 are for the months January-June.
n/a not available
Note: Target population = 69.0 per cent of women in the reproductive age group 15-49.

Source: National Family Planning Board (NFPB)

walk-in, advice column and the radio); the production of printed
materials; and outreach activities. Training was provided to 2 335
individuals in 57 programmes islandwide. The following groups
of individuals were trained: parents/guardians; health-care
workers (nurses, doctors, pharmacists, community health aides
etc.); peer educators, guidance counsellors; adolescents; men and
teachers to initiate and promote the continued use of
contraceptives.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched
the Comprehensive Condom Initiative which has a target to
distribute 1.9 million male condoms and 300 000 female condoms
by the end of 2010. This initiative is implemented by the Ministry
of Health (MOH), the National AIDS Committee, International
Planned Parenthood Affiliates, the University of the West Indies
(UWI) and other related partners. The programme aims to increase
access to and use of male and female condoms in order to meet
international targets to increase the number of protected sex acts
and reduce the numbers of unplanned pregnancies and HIV
infections. Condoms will be provided to persons living with HIV,
sex workers, persons with disabilities and young persons to
increase access to reproductive health information and
commodities.
Reproductive Health Survey (RHS)
NFPB partnered with UNFPA, Centre for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Statistical Institute of
Jamaica (STATIN) in producing the RHS, 2008. The RHS is
a critical tool for capturing data on fertility; contraceptive
knowledge and use; relationship status; sexual experience
and activity; gender and violence; HIV/AIDS and other
STIs; and family life education. The sample for the survey
comprised of a total of 7 200 females and 2 400 males. A
dissemination seminar was held to sensitize key
stakeholders in the field of RH. The following are summary
highlights from the RHS, 2008:
– unmet need6 for women 15–44 years decreased
from 8.5 per cent in 2002 to 7.2 per cent in 2008 (3.0
per cent having a need for spacing and 4.2 per cent
with a need for limiting);
– the Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) moved
from 68.1 per cent in 2002 to 72.5 per cent surpass-
ing the 2010 target of 70.5 per cent;
– the proportion of planned conception increased to
50.0 per cent from 37.5 per cent in 2002;

6 The definition of unmet need used by NFPB is “Women in need of services who are not using contraceptives are in one or more of the
following groups: (i) not pregnant or post partum; (ii) not seeking to become pregnant within the next two years or ever; (iii) fecund;
and (iv) currently sexually active”.
 20.4

5
4.5

Total Fertility Rate

4
3.5
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
1975 1983 1989 1993 1997 2002 2008
Year
FIGURE 20A: TOTAL FERTILITY RATES, 1975 - 2008

FIGURE 20A: REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SURVEY 1997, 2002 AND 2008.

– the four most prevalent contraceptives — Condoms, Pill,
Injectables and Female Sterilization — remained high;
– knowledge of Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) in-
creased to 83.0 per cent from 48.0 per cent in 2002;
– a second contraceptive method was used by 22.4 per cent
of couples in addition to a primary method; and
– mean age at first sexual intercourse increased — 14.5
years for males and 16.1 years for females in 2008 com-
pared with 13.5 years for males and 15.8 years for females
in 2002.
Further analysis on contraceptive prevalence from the RHS
shows that there was an increase in usage of some contraceptive
Age Specific Fertility Rates(per1
methods. Over the past three survey periods condom and
injectable use has increased. Conversely, there was a
decrease in the use of the pill. Condom prevalence was 25.3
per cent; pill, 17.3 per cent; and injectables, 13.8 per cent
compared with 17.0 per cent for condoms, 21.2 per cent, pill
and 10.9 per cent for injectables in 1997. Sterilizations
continued on a downward trend. The highest prevalence for
sterilization was among women 40–49 years.
The RHS reveals that the Total Fertility Rate has
declined consistently from 4.5 children per woman in 1975
to 2.4 children per woman in 2008 (Figure 20A). Analysis of
the Age Specific Fertility Rates (ASFRs) reveals that there
has been a decline in fertility rates across most age groups
(Figure 20B). Despite the decline in overall fertility, the

180
160
ates

140
AgeSpecificFertilityR

120
( per 1 000)

100
000)

80
60
40
20
0
1 5 -1 9 2 0 -2 4 2 5 -2 9 3 0 -3 4 3 5 -3 9 4 0 -4 4 4 5 -4 9
A g e G ro u p

1997 2002 2008

FIGURE 20B: AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATES, 1997, 2002 AND 2008
 20.5

TABLE 20.3a
MAINSTREAMS OF MIGRATION FROM JAMAICA, 1998-2009

COUNTRY

YEAR USAa CANADAb UKc TOTAL

1998 15 123 2 235 325 17 683

1999 14 693 2 346 307 17 346
2000 15 949 2 462 287 18 698
2001 15 322 2 775 346 18 443
2002 14 835 2 457 408 17 700
2003 13 347 1 983 495r 15 825r
2004 14 430 2 131 552r 17 113r
2005 18 346 1 880 538r 20 764r
2006 24 976 1 686r 520 27 182r
2007 19 375 2 113 1 295r 22 783r
2008 18 477 2 312 1 240r 22 030
2009 18 510g 1 838d 1 266g 21 614e

a - Period of reference is the fiscal year for the United States of America, i.e., from October of the previous year to September
of the next year.
b - Period of reference is the Calendar Year 1998-2009. These figures represent Landings from Jamaica (Country of Last Permanent Residence)
c - Period of reference is Financial Year, April-March. These figures represent Settlement Applications issued from processing post in Kingston, Jamaica
d - Data are presented for the period January-September 2009.
e - Partial emigration figures
g - Projections by Population Unit, PIOJ for 2009

r - revised

Source: Compiled from data provided by:

-Yearbook of Immigration Statistics 2008, August 2009, Office of Immigration Statistics, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Facts and Figures, 2008, Citizenship and Immigration, Canada
- Entry Clearance Statistics, various years, Home Office, UK Border Agency

pattern remains early peaked, where the highest fertility is within
the 20–24 age group. Notably, there was a decline in adolescent
(15–19 years) fertility rates from 112 in 1997 to 72 children per
woman 15–19 years in 2008. While there have been
improvements in fertility, risky sexual and reproductive health
behaviour among adolescents and men remain high.
The achievements highlighted in the RHS, 2008 have placed
Jamaica on the path of attaining several Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs). Increase in planned pregnancies has a direct
impact on MDGs 1 and 57 while MDG 6.38 is directly linked to the
narrowing gap in unmet need. There is continued progress
towards achieving MDG 6 as knowledge and use of
contraceptives continue to increase.
Mortality
The estimated total number of deaths was 17 600. The Crude
Death Rate (CDR) was 6.5 deaths per 1 000 population (see Table
20.1). The death rate remained consistent with the projection
(medium variant) in the Revised National Population Policy.
Mortality continued to be influenced by mainly lifestyle diseases,
homicides, traffic accidents and AIDS (see chapters on National
Security and Justice, and Health). The top three leading causes of
death for males 5 years and over were: external causes (inclusive
of traffic accidents, shooting etc.), cerebrovascular diseases
and diabetes mellitus. Among women in the same age
groups, the top three causes were diabetes mellitus,
cerebrovascular disease and hypertensive diseases.
INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION
Jamaica continues to experience high levels of
international migration which in turn is increasingly
influenced by demographic, social, economic and political
factors. These factors include: population growth and
structure, family life, labour market, remittances among
others. As a result of its increasing importance, the area of
migration and development has been given significant focus
on the international agenda. Efforts are being focused on
migration management and policy development. This
approach is being encouraged for all countries with an aim to
increase benefits and minimize the negative consequences
for countries of origin and destination and for the migrants
themselves.

7 MDG 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger; and MDG 5: Improve Maternal Health.
8 MDG 6.3: Proportion of population aged 15–24 years with comprehensive and correct knowledge of HIV/AIDS.
 20.6

TABLE 20.3b
MIGRANTS FROM JAMAICA TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY AGE AND SEX, 2005-2008
NUMBERS

MALES FEMALES TOTAL

AGE GROUP
YEARS 2005 2006 2007 2008 2005 2006 2007 2008 2005 2006 2007 2008

Under 18 2 249 2 845 2 124 2 202 2 265 2 925 2 200 2 249 4 514 5 770 4 324 4 451
years
18-24 1 133 1 634 1 327 1 230 1 335 1 766 1 375 1 320 2 468 3 400 2 702 2 550
25-34 1 895 2 531 2 093 1 888 2 057 2 765 2 059 1 823 3 952 5 296 4 152 3 711
35-44 1 430 2 030 1 599 1 546 2 078 2 807 2 187 1 930 3 508 4 837 3 786 3 476
45-54 789 1 065 854 915 1 344 2 094 1 615 1 532 2 133 3 159 2 469 2 447
55-64 354 556 404 482 731 1 031 789 761 1 085 1 587 1 193 1 243
65 and 215 287 261 187 470 639 488 412 685 926 749 599
over
unknown 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 - 0

Total 8 066 10 948 8 662 8 450 10 280 14 027 10 713 10 027 18 346 24 976 19 375 18 477

PERCENTAGES

Under 18 12.3 11.4 11.0 11.9 12.3 11.7 11.3 12.2 24.6 23.1 22.3 24.1
years
18-24 6.2 6.6 6.8 6.7 7.3 7.1 7.1 7.1 13.5 13.7 13.9 13.8
25-34 10.3 10.1 10.8 10.2 11.2 11.1 10.6 9.9 21.5 21.2 21.4 20.1
35-44 7.8 8.1 8.3 8.4 11.3 11.2 11.3 10.4 19.1 19.3 19.6 18.8
45-54 4.3 4.3 4.4 5.0 7.3 8.4 8.3 8.3 11.6 12.7 12.7 13.3
55-64 1.9 2.2 2.1 2.6 4.0 4.1 4.1 4.1 5.9 6.3 6.2 6.7
65 and 1.2 1.1 1.4 1.0 2.6 2.6 2.5 2.2 3.8 3.7 3.9 3.2
over
unknown 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0 0

Total 44.0 43.8 44.8 45.8 56.0 56.2 55.2 54.2 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Source: Yearbooks of Immigration Statistics 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008

Office of Immigration Statistics, US Department of Homeland Security

Emigration
Figures for 2009 indicate that 21 6149 Jamaicans were granted
visas for permanent residence in the United States of America
(USA), Canada and the United Kingdom (UK). In relation to the
USA, the figure includes Jamaicans who were already living in the
USA, and those living elsewhere, including Jamaica (Table
20.3a).
There was a 4.6 per cent decline in the number of Jamaicans
granted visas for permanent residence in the USA from 19 375 in
2007 to 18 477 in 2008 (Table 20.3c). Jamaica was ranked 13th for
the second consecutive year among countries with the highest
number of residents who were granted permanent status in the
USA10. Approximately 51.3 per cent of emigrants were new
arrivals; the remaining proportion had an adjustment in their
status. Data were also available on the marital status of emigrants;
48.6 per cent were reported single and 47.4 per cent, married.
Migration to the USA continued to be both age and sex
selective (Table 20.3b). Approximately 54.2 per cent of all
migrants were females. Females continued to outnumber males in
all age groups, except the 25–34 age group. The largest
proportion (63.0 per cent) of migrants was in the following
age groups: 0–17 years (24.1 per cent), 25–34 years (20.1
per cent), and the 35–44 years (18.8 per cent).
Emigrants are admitted based on seven categories of
admissions: Family Sponsored Preferences; Employment
Sponsored Preferences; Immediate Relatives to US
Citizens; Refugee and Asylee Adjustments; Diversity
Programmes; Cancellation of Removal; and Other (Table
20.3d). Family reunification continued to be the main reason
for emigration to the USA11. This accounted for over 95.9
per cent of the total emigrants. Migrants categorized as
‘Immediate relatives to US Citizens’ accounted for
approximately 64.6 per cent in 2008, a decline of 12.2 per
cent (see Table 20.3d). Emigrants under ‘Family Sponsored
Preferences’ were the second highest category (31.3 per
cent). The proportion of emigrants categorized as
‘Employment Based Preferences’ remained constant at 3.8
per cent in 2008.
Approximately 71.6 per cent of all emigrants to the USA
did not report an occupation12 (see Table 20.3c).The

9 Estimations of the mainstreams of migration (2009) for the USA and the UK were done by the Population Unit, PIOJ.
10 U.S Legal Permanent Residents: 2008. Annual Flow Report, March 2009. Office of Immigration Statistics.
11 This refers to two categories: Family Sponsored Preferences and Immediate Relatives to US Citizens. Family Sponsored
Preferences consists of four categories: unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens and their children; spouses, children, and
unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents and their children; married sons and daughters of US citizens and their
spouses and children; and brothers and sisters of US citizens aged 21 and over and their spouses and children. Immediate Relatives
to US Citizens are spouses and children of US citizens and adult US citizens aged 21 years and over.
12 This is a combination of persons reporting No occupation and Not reported.
 20.7

TABLE 20.3c
JAMAICAN MIGRANTS TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY OCCUPATIONAL STATUS, 2005-2008
NUMBERS PERCENTAGES

2005 2006 2007 2008 2005 2006 2007 2008

Management, Professionals and Related Occupations 1 024 1 066 880 997 5.6 4.3 4.5 5.3
Sales and Office Occupations 486 628 420 476 2.6 2.5 2.2 2.6
Farming, Forestry, Fisheries 178 243 171 179 1.0 1.0 0.9 1.0
Maintenance and Repaira 320 176 160 144 1.7 0.7 0.8 0.8
Production, Transportation and Material Movingb 223 432 329 412 1.2 1.7 1.7 2.2
Service 3 075 4 116 3196 3 055 16.8 16.5 16.5 16.5
Military 0 0 0 3 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
No occupation 7 615 10 092 8046 8043 41.5 40.4 41.5 43.5
Not reported 5 425 8 223 6173 5 188 29.6 32.9 31.9 28.1

TOTAL 18 346 24 976 19 375 18 477 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

TOTAL WORKERS 5 306 6 661 5 156 5 246 28.9 26.7 26.6 28.47

Note:
a. The category "Operators, Fabricators, Labourers" from ESSJ 2008 is now classified as "Maintenance and Repair".

b. The category "Precision Production, Craft and Repair" from ESSJ 2008 is now being classified as "Production, Transportation and Material Moving"
occupations.

Source: Yearbook of Immigration Statistics, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008

Office of Immigration Statistics, US Department of Homeland Security

proportion of migrants reporting an occupation in 2008 was 28.4 Immigration

per cent. Of this proportion, the largest group of classified workers
was in the Service sector which remained constant at 16.5 per cent.
This was followed by Management, Professional and Related
Occupations (5.3 per cent); and Sales and Office Occupations (2.6
per cent).
There were 1 838 emigrants to Canada in 2009 (see Table
20.3a). Jamaican emigrants accounted for approximately 0.7 per
cent of all migrants to Canada and are ranked 27th in all countries
sending migrants to this country13. The highest proportion of
migrants was concentrated in the 10–19 (23.1 per cent) and 30–39
age groups (23.6 per cent) (Table 20.3e).
The largest proportion of emigrant workers to Canada was
concentrated in the Professional and Service occupations (Table
20.3f). With the exception of ‘Service Workers and Shop and
Market Sales Workers’, there was little change in most occupation
groups. This group showed an increase of 1.7 percentage points.
The category of Non-workers, New Workers, Homemakers,
Students and Retirees continued to be very high, 65.0 per cent; the
highest for the period under review (2005–2009) (see Table
20.3f). The figures for the category ‘Unknown’ for the period were
high due to privacy considerations from the data suppliers.
Data on Jamaicans migrating to the United Kingdom (UK)
are reported from the UK Border Agency (Table 20.3h). The data
provided only refer to the number of Jamaicans with settlement
applications approved from the Office of the British High
Commission in Kingston. Data are no longer provided on the
category or class of admission as previously reported in the ESSJ.
Approvals were granted to 1 266 emigrants, an increase of 2.1 per
cent from 1 240 reported in 2008 (see Table 20.3a).
An immigrant refers to a resident in a given country
entering another country in order to take up permanent
residence14. For Jamaica, an individual must be resident in
the country for six months or more in order to be categorized
as an immigrant. A notable feature of the demographic
statistics of the country over the years is the increasing
number of immigrants. These include Returning Residents;
Deportees; Refugees; Commonwealth Citizens; and Aliens.
An examination of the characteristics of these immigrants is
critical in any analysis of migration into a country. Most
immigrants reported make a significant contribution to the
country with their skills and qualifications.
Returning Residents
The number of returning residents was 1 170, a 7.8 per
cent decline relative to 2008. The majority of returning
residents came from the USA (53.7 per cent) and the UK
(21.9 per cent) (Table 20.3g). There were declines in the
number of returning residents from UK and Canada by 30.4
per cent and 28.9 per cent, respectively relative to 2008. An
increase in returning residents from the USA (5.5 per cent)
and Other (15.6 per cent) was evident (see Table 20.3g).
Deportees
The subject of deportees has received significant
attention in the international arena and particularly so in
Jamaica. This focus has propelled a strong emphasis on the
implementation of strict immigration controls and border

13 Facts and Figures 2008, Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

14 Jacob Siegel et al., The Methods and Materials of Demography, Second Edition (Elsevier Inc., 2004).
 20.8

TABLE 20.3d
JAMAICAN IMMIGRANTS ADMITTED TO THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
BY SELECTED CLASS OF ADMISSION,
2005-2008

NUMBERS PERCENTAGES

2005 2006 2007 2008 2005 2006 2007 2008

Family Sponsored Preferences 5 032 6 218 4 988 5 780 27.4 24.9 25.7 31.3
Employment Based Preferences 1 214 873 732 697 6.6 3.5 3.8 3.8
Immediate Relatives to US Citizens 12 049 17 827 13 602 11 937 65.7 71.4 70.2 64.6
Refugee and Asylee Adjustments d 16 12 15 d 0.0 0.1 0.1
Diversity Programmes d d d 4 d d d 0.0
Cancellation of Removal n/s n/s n/s n/s n/s n/s n/s n/s
Other 45 42 41 34 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2

Total 18 346 24 976 19 375 18 477 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

d - Disclosure standards not met

Source: Yearbook of Immigration Statistics, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008

Office of Immigration Statistics, US Department of Homeland Security

management approaches. As a result, there continues to be an
increase in the number of deportees worldwide. However, the
number of persons deported to Jamaica overall declined to 3 076 in
2009 from 3 234 in 2008 (see Table 20.3g). Deportees returned for
convictions were mainly for Possession of Drugs and Illegal Alien
status (see chapter on National Security and Justice).
Increases in the number of persons deported were evident only
for Canada and Other Countries. Deportees from Canada
increased to 223 in 2009 from 201 in 2008, while for Other
Countries they increased to 762 in 2009 from 731 in 2008 (see
Table 20.3g).
Commonwealth Citizens and Aliens
The number of Commonwealth Citizens residing in Jamaica
declined from 5 283 in 2008 to 4 696 in 2009. There was also a
decline in the number of persons registered as Aliens from 8 511 in
2008 to 7 119 in 2009 (Table 20.3h).
POPULATION STRUCTURE
The population for 2009 disaggregated by sex shows
1 329 300 or 49.3 per cent males and 1 369 500 or 50.7 per cent
females (Table 20.4 and Figure 20C). The proportions for both
sexes have remained unchanged since 2004 giving a sex ratio of
97.1 males per 100 females. Variations in the sex ratios are evident
by broad age groups. The sex ratio for the 0–14 age group was
104.9 males per 100 females; 96.4 males per 100 females in the
15–64 age group; and 79.2 males per 100 females in the 65+ age
group.
Jamaica is currently at an intermediate stage of the
demographic transition. In this stage the following distinctive
trends are evident: the 0–14 age group is declining; the
working age group (15–64) is increasing; and the 65+ age
group (the dependent elderly) continues to be the fastest
growing segment of the population.
The 0–14 age group continued its gradual decline to 27.4
per cent of the population in 2009 compared with 27.9 per
cent in 2008 and 28.3 per cent in 2007. Population
projections from STATIN show that there will be further
declines in this age group over the next 20 years15.
The working age population (15–64) comprised 64.1 per
cent of the total population (880 500 females and 849 100
males). Projections have also indicated that this age group
will continue to increase. The largest proportion of persons
in the working age group was in the 15–39 age category (see
Figure 20C).
The elderly population (60+) totalled 298 100 (163 100
females and 135 000 males). This group accounted for 11.0
per cent of the total population compared with
approximately 10.0 per cent (295 600) in 2008. The
predominance of women in the elderly age group continued
to be a main feature. This reflects the higher survival rates of
women over men. The ‘dependent elderly’ population (65+)
represented 8.5 per cent of the total population in 2009.
Projections indicate that substantial increases are expected
for this age group up to 2050.
The Age Dependency Ratio (ADR)16 measures total
dependency involving both the child and dependent elderly
populations and indicates the potential effects of population
ageing on social and economic development. The ADR
declined to 56.0 dependents per 100 persons of working age

15 STATIN, Population Projections Jamaica 2000–2050 (Kingston: STATIN, 2008).

16 The ratio of the population in the dependent ages, i.e. those under 15 years, plus those in the 65 and over age group to those in the
working ages, 15–64 years. This is also a measure of the relative age structure of the population.
 20.9

TABLE 20.3e
PERMANENT RESIDENTS ADMITTED FROM JAMAICA TO CANADA BY AGE, 2005-2009

NUMBERS
AGE GROUP 2005r 2006r 2007r 2008 2009

0-4 70 70 85 79 78
5-9 150 113 138 190 149
10-14 237 184 202 218 195
15-19 255 236 250 259 230
20-24 161 145 206 190 162
25-29 207 153 208 230 154
30-34 215 217 277 288 222
35-39 204 208 238 272 211
40-44 153 148 174 209 164
45-49 101 86 105 146 111
50-54 40 57 77 87 61
55-59 23 31 58 38 34
60-64 23 11 41 47 21
65+ 41 27 54 59 46

TOTAL 1 880 1 686 2 113 2 312 1 838

PERCENTAGES

0-4 3.7 4.1 4.0 3.4 4.2

5-9 8.0 6.8 6.5 8.2 8.1
10-14 12.6 10.9 9.6 9.4 10.6
15-19 13.6 14.0 11.8 11.2 12.5
20-24 8.5 8.6 9.8 8.2 8.8
25-29 11.1 9.1 9.8 10.0 8.4
30-34 11.4 12.9 13.1 12.5 12.1
35-39 10.4 12.3 11.3 11.8 11.5
40-44 8.2 8.7 8.2 9.0 8.9
45-49 5.4 5.2 5.0 6.3 6.1
50-54 2.1 3.4 3.7 3.8 3.3
55-59 1.2 1.8 2.7 1.6 1.8
60-64 1.2 0.6 1.9 2.0 1.1
65+ 2.2 1.6 2.6 2.6 2.5

TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Note: Data for 2009 are preliminary estimates for Jan. to Sept. and are subject to change.

Source: Citizenship and Immigration, Canada

in 2009, from 66.7 persons in 2001 and 73.3 persons in 1991. The
lower ADRs are an indication that the potential for increasing
production and improving the standard of living exists, provided
that jobs are created for the expanding working age population.
These ADRs, however, are expected to increase after 2030 when
the demographic window of opportunity will start to close.
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION
The spatial distribution of the population for the period
2005–2009 continued to indicate that the largest proportion of the
population was found in Kingston and St. Andrew (24.7 per cent)
followed by St. Catherine (18.5 per cent). Hanover recorded the
lowest proportion (2.6 per cent) (Table 20.5).
Urbanization continues to be a significant feature in Jamaica’s
population distribution and one of the population trends shaping
the future. Growth continues to be evident in major towns
including: Portmore, Montego Bay, Old Harbour, Ewarton, Ocho
Rios and Spanish Town. In order to maximize the potential
benefits and reduce the negative impacts of urbanization, efforts
must be placed on addressing the following: provision of basic
infrastructure and services; poverty eradication; local
g o v e r n a n c e ; r e d u c t i o n o f c r i me a n d v i o l e n c e ;
recreational/social spaces; environmental management;
disaster management; quality health; and education and
training.
INTEGRATION OF POPULATION AND DEVEL-
OPMENT
Global Forum on Migration and Development
The Third Global Forum on Migration and Development
(GFMD) was convened in Athens, Greece, November 4–5.
As with previous meetings it addressed the
multidimensional issues relating to migration and
development. The central theme of this GFMD was
“Integrating Migration Policies into Development
Strategies for the Benefit of All”. The forum focused on
interventions from both civil society organizations and
governments. Roundtable discussions were convened to
address the issues and concerns relating to:
 20.10

TABLE 20.3f
MIGRANTS FROM JAMAICA TO CANADA BY OCCUPATION, 2005-2009
NUMBERS
OCCUPATION GROUP 2005r 2006r 2007 2008 2009

Professionals, Senior Officials and Technicians 116 114 153 188 128
Clerks 18 5 32 32 22
Service Workers and Shop and Market Sales Workers 95 74 106 91 105
Skilled Agricultural and Fishery Workers 44 27 41 51 24
Craft and Related Trades Workers 118 57 111 100 59
Plant and Machine Operators and Assemblers 5 0 0 5 0
Elementary Occupations 21 30 30 25 20
Non-workers, New Workers, Homemakers, Students and Retirees 1 167 1 086 1 319 1 464 1 194
Unknown 296 293 329 356 286

TOTAL 1 880 1 686 2 113 2 312 1 838

PERCENTAGES
Professionals, Senior Officials and Technicians 6.2 6.8 15.9 8.1 7.0
Clerks 1.0 0.3 3.0 1.4 1.2
Service Workers and Shop and Market Sales Workers 5.0 4.4 6.5 4 5.7
Skilled Agricultural and Fishery Workers 2.3 1.6 3.4 2.2 1.3
Craft and Related Trades Workers 6.3 3.4 5.1 4.3 3.2
Plant and Machine Operators and Assemblers 0.3 0.0 2.6 0.2 0.0
Elementary Occupations 1.1 1.8 0.9 1.1 1.1
Non-workers, New Workers, Homemakers, Students and Retirees 62.1 64.4 62.6 63.3 65
Unknown 15.7 17.3 0.0 15.4 15.5

TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

r - revised
Note: The data obtained from Citizenship and Immigration, Canada were classified according to the Jamaica Standard Occupational Classification, STATIN.

Source: Citizenship and Immigration, Canada

– how to make the migration–development nexus work for
the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals;
– migrant integration, reintegration and circulation for de-
velopment;
– policy and institutional coherence and partnerships; and
– building alliances: private sector engagement with other
civil society actors.
The Forum identified the need for complementary strategies to
be implemented at different levels of government in countries of
origin, transit and destination. Emphasis was placed on how
countries can engage their diaspora to enhance their development.
Particular focus was placed on the impact of the global economic
crisis on migration. Concern was expressed that the crisis should
not be used as an opportunity to restrict entry or movement of
migrants.
The main recommendations from the Forum highlighted the
need for:
– the integration of migration policies in national develop-
ment plans and poverty reduction strategies;
– the creation of migration profiles as a policy development
tool. The objective of these profiles is to gather informa-
tion on issues such as labour market situations, unemploy-
ment rates, labour demand and supply, potential skill
shortages by sector and occupation, skill needs in the
country, skills available in the diaspora, migration flows,
financial flows linked to migration including remittances;
– further development of a handbook by the Interna-
tional Organization for Migration (IOM) which
would be a toolkit to inform the mainstreaming of
migration in national development policy;
– the definition of a set of indicators to evaluate the
impact of reintegration strategies on the develop-
ment of the countries of origin, to conduct studies on
the impact of reintegration on the local labour mar-
ket and the establishment of an observatory to col-
lect data and experiences of reintegration, to support
future evaluations of reintegration policies; and
– the creation of a database of best practices to support
policy and planning initiatives of countries.
The Jamaican Diaspora
The members of the Jamaican Diaspora continued to
contribute to national development in the areas of health and
early childhood education. The Jamaica Diaspora Advisory
Board convened and addressed issues of interest and
concern to the Jamaican communities in the diaspora. This
Board provides advice to the Minister (Foreign Affairs and
Foreign Trade) with responsibility for Diaspora Affairs.
Initiatives and activities were geared towards strengthening
the structure of the Diaspora movement and enhancing their
involvement. This dialogue was incorporated into the work
of the Joint Select Committee of the Houses of Parliament on
Diaspora Affairs, which had its inaugural sitting in 2009.
 20.11

TABLE 20.3g
JAMAICAN RETURNING RESIDENTS AND DEPORTEES, 2005-2009
RETURNING RESIDENTS DEPORTEES

YEARS USA CANADA UK OTHER TOTAL USA CANADA UK OTHER TOTAL

2005 659 148 424 68 1 299 1 513 217 1 291 299 3 320
2006 663 143 363 67 1 236 1 406 217 940 441 3 004
2007 631 130 421 159 1 341 1 329 218 870 567 2 984
2008 595 152 368 154 1 269 1 476 210 817 731 3 234
2009a 628 108 256 178 1 170 1 472 223 619 762 3 076

a. The figures for returning residents for 2009 reflect the period January-November
Note: In the case of family units of returning residents only one adult member is required to register on behalf of the family.
In several instances registered returnees are accompanied by family members or relatives

Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department Jamaica Customs

The first Future Leaders Diaspora Conference was convened
from August 3 to 8 under the theme, “Connecting Diaspora
Future Leaders: Solidifying our place in our homelands and
Jamaica”. The Conference sought to strengthen the process of
building networks of future leaders in the Jamaican diaspora
towards more meaningful engagement in the country’s
development.
Vital Statistics Commission (VSC)
The initial lifespan of the VSC ended in 2009. An extension
was approved by Cabinet and it was agreed that the VSC remain in
existence until the establishment of the National Statistics
Commission. Throughout the period, the VSC continued to
address issues pertaining to vital statistics and civil registration.
The Commission undertook a process mapping exercise of all the
activities and processes in the entire civil registration and vital
statistics system. The following information was clearly outlined
for all partners in the civil registration and vital statistics system:
(i) all data entry points; (ii) data flow; and (iii) their role in the
overall system. Consistency in the data collected and processed
can be assured using these flow charts.
Execution of activities under Phase 1 of the
Modernization Programme of the Civil Registration and
Vital Statistics System began during the period. UNFPA
provided support for the development of a comprehensive
manual on “Standard Definitions of Vital Statistics and
Vital Events and Standards for Calculation of Vital
Statistics”. The manual was developed to address one of the
key recommendations from the Audit Report of the system
(2005) relating to the standardization of definitions of vital
events; establishing clear guidelines for the collection,
production and dissemination of vital data and vital
statistics. Two national stakeholder workshops were held to
review and finalize the document. The manual provides the
framework for the review of other manuals and civil
registration forms which will be undertaken in the
Modernization Programme.
A Letter of Agreement was signed between the
Government of Jamaica and the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB) to provide support to the
Modernization Programme. The support will be geared
towards three areas: institutional linkages and policy; data
collection and management; and human resources and

TABLE 20.3h
IMMIGRATION TO JAMAICA, 2005-2009
YEARS RETURNING DEPORTEES COMMONWEALTH ALIENS TOTAL
RESIDENTS CITIZENS

2005 1 299 3 320 1 500 2 075 8 194

2006 1 236 3 004 5 930 4 962 15 132
2007 1 341 2 984 4 933 2 171 11 429
2008 1 269 3 234 5 283 8 511r 18 297r
2009 1 170 3 076 4 696 7 119 16 061

r - revised

Note: Aliens are non-commonwealth citizens

The figures for Commonwealth Citizens 2007 & 2008 are for persons granted extension of stay.
Diplomats are not included in this group.
These include work permits, marriage exemption certificate and student status.
The figures for returning residents for 2009 reflect data for the period January to November.

Source: Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), Ministry of National Security
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade
Jamaica Customs
Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department
 20.12

TABLE 20.4
POPULATION OF JAMAICA BY AGE AND SEX, END OF YEAR, 2006-2009
NUMBERS

2006 2007 2008 2009p

AGE GROUP MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES

TOTAL 1 315 200 1 354 300 1 321 600 1 360 500 1 326 900 1 365 500 1 329 300 1 369 500
TOTAL POP. 2 669 500 2 682 100 2 692 400 2 698 800

0-4 117 200 112 500 115 300 111 100 114 100 110 400 112 600 109 200
5-9 134 600 130 300 129 300 125 100 126 100 121 900 122 600 118 600
10-14 142 700 134 900 143 400 134 700 143 600 133 900 143 500 133 100
15-19 127 400 122 800 127 600 122 300 127 400 121 400 127 600 121 800
20-24 102 000 108 200 101 500 107 800 100 600 106 900 100 800 107 200
25-29 101 500 112 000 102 000 112 800 102 200 113 200 102 300 113 200
30-34 102 000 113 300 103 600 115 200 104 800 116 700 105 700 117 700
35-39 102 100 114 000 104 900 117 100 107 300 119 800 107 400 122 200
40-44 90 600 92 600 93 300 95 100 95 700 97 300 97 900 99 200
45-49 63 300 64 700 64 800 66 000 66 000 67 100 67 100 68 000
50-54 57 500 53 000 59 000 54 000 60 300 54 900 61 500 55 500
55-59 43 100 39 600 44 000 40 100 44 700 40 500 45 300 40 700
60-64 33 000 34 600 33 300 34 900 33 400 35 000 33 500 35 000
65-69 30 700 33 000 31 000 33 400 31 300 33 700 31 400 33 800
70-74 27 200 30 100 27 700 30 600 28 000 31 100 28 300 31 400
Over 75 40 300 58 700 40 900 60 300 41 400 61 700 41 800 62 900

PERCENTAGES

2006 2007p 2008p 2009p

AGE GROUP MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES MALES FEMALES

TOTAL POP. 49.3 50.7 49.3 50.7 49.3 50.7 49.3 50.7
0-4 4.4 4.2 4.3 4.1 4.2 4.1 4.2 4.0
5-9 5.0 4.9 4.8 4.7 4.7 4.5 4.5 4.4
10-14 5.3 5.1 5.3 5.0 5.3 5.0 5.3 4.9
15-19 4.8 4.6 4.8 4.6 4.7 4.5 4.7 4.5
20-24 3.8 4.1 3.8 4.0 3.8 4.0 3.7 4.0
25-29 3.8 4.2 3.8 4.2 3.8 5.0 3.8 4.2
30-34 3.8 4.2 3.9 4.3 3.9 6.0 3.9 4.4
35-39 3.8 4.3 3.9 4.4 4.0 4.4 4.0 4.5
40-44 3.4 3.5 3.5 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.7
45-49 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
50-54 2.2 2.0 2.2 2.0 2.2 2.0 2.3 2.1
55-59 1.6 1.5 1.6 1.5 1.7 1.5 1.7 1.5
60-64 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.3 1.3
65-69 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.2
70-74 1.0 1.1 1.0 1.1 1.0 1.2 1.0 1.2
Over 75 1.6 2.1 1.6 2.2 1.5 2.3 1.6 2.3

p - provisional

Source: Data supplied by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica

training. These activities are also d erived f rom the
recommendations made in the Audit Report.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country
Programme for Jamaica
UNFPA Country Programme (2007–2011) focuses on three
broad areas: (i) Gender Equality including Gender Based Violence
and issues of Masculinities; (ii) Sexual and Reproductive Health
including Safe Motherhood, HIV and AIDS and increased
awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health among Youth; and
(iii) Population and Development including support to
preparations for Population and Housing Censuses, Data
Processing, Vital Statistics and other population related
issues. The initiatives for 2009 included:
– launch of State of World Population Report 2009
which ex plored “Fac ing a Chang ing World:
Women, Population and Climate” – examining the
impact of climate change on the livelihoods of
women;
– World Population Day – highlighting population is-
sues and development. A media sensitization work-
shop was held to sensitize media practitioners on the
 20.13

M a le 7 5 +
F e m a le
7 0 - 7 4

6 5 - 6 9
6 0 - 6 4
5 5 - 5 9

5 0 - 5 4
4 5 - 4 9
4 0 - 4 4

3 5 - 3 9
3 0 - 3 4
2 5 - 2 9

2 0 - 2 4
1 5 - 1 9
1 0 - 1 4

5 -9
0 -4

- 1 1 3 5 7
-7 -5 -3 -1 1

1 9 9 1 2 0 0 9

-5 - 4 -3 - 2 -1 0
FIGURE 20C: POPULATION BY AGE AND SEX, CENSUS 1991 AND ESTIMATES 2009

link between population and development and their role – Population Ageing;
in raising awareness of, and engaging the society on these
issues; and relevance of family planning to national – Gender Equality, Equity and Empowerment of
development goals; Women;

– support to training workshops in preparation for the 2010
Round of Population and Housing Censuses; and
– support for Jamaica’s participation in the 42nd Session of
the UN Commission on Population and Development and
the Regional Summit on Poverty, Population and Urban
Planning in the Context of the Global Crisis.
UN 10th Field Inquiry
A workshop was held to coordinate a national response to the
10th Inquiry. The Inquiry was developed to assist the United
Nations in the collection and dissemination of information on
national population policies. Information for Jamaica was divided
into seven sections: (i) Population Policies and Development
Goals; (ii) Population Growth; Size and Age Structure; (iii) Health
and Mortality; (iv) Fertility and Family Planning; (v) Population
Distribution; (vi) Urbanization and Internal Migration and
International Migration; and (vii) Data Availability. The
information demonstrates the country’s commitment to the
implementation of activities to integrate population variables in
development planning.
Review of the Fifteen Year Anniversary of the
Programme of Action of the International Conference on
Population and Development (ICDP+15)
Jamaica prepared a national response and collaborated with
countries in the Caribbean region in preparing a report on their
status for the ICPD+15. The report focused on the following areas:
– Population, sustained economic growth and sustainable
development;
– International Migration;
– Family, population structure and interdependence
between productive and reproductive life/social
protection;
– Sexual and Reproductive Rights;
– Reproductive Health;
– HIV/AIDS; and
– Emerging Issues.
There have been several achievements made by the
country since the adoption of the ICPD Programme of
Action. These achievements include:
– improvement in demographic indicators such as the
population growth rate, TFR and life expectancy;
– integration of population factors in development
policy, planning and programmes — implementa-
tion of the Population Policy and Plan of Action and
the Development of Vision 2030 Jamaica - National
Development Plan;
– development and implementation of legislation,
policies and plans of actions and programmes tar-
geting vulnerable population groups — children,
the elderly, persons with disabilities, adolescents
and youth;
– improvement in the area of Sexual and Reproduc-
tive Health and Rights — development of legisla-
tion, plans and programmes; and
– adoption of legislation addressing gender equality,
equity and empowerment of women.
 20.14

TABLE 20.5
END OF YEAR POPULATION OF JAMAICA BY PARISH, 2005-2009
End of Year End of Year End of Year End of Year End of Year % Distribution 2009
Population 2005 Population 2006 Population 2007 Population 2008 Population 2009p

JAMAICA 2 656 700 2 669 500 2 682 100 2 692 400 2 698 800

Kingston &
St. Andrew 657 800 660 600 663 600 666 200 667 800 24.7
St. Thomas 93 100 93 400 93 900 94 300 94 500 3.5
Portland 81 300 81 500 81 900 82 300 82 400 3.1
St. Mary 113 000 113 400 113 900 114 300 114 600 4.2
St. Ann 171 000 172 000 172 800 173 400 173 800 6.4
Trelawny 74 600 75 000 75 300 75 600 75 800 2.8
St. James 181 500 182 800 183 700 184 400 184 900 6.9
Hanover 68 900 69 300 69 600 69 900 70 100 2.6
Westmoreland 142 800 143 800 144 400 145 000 145 300 5.4
St. Elizabeth 149 100 149 800 150 600 151 100 151 500 5.6
Manchester 188 600 189 300 190 200 190 900 191 400 7.1
Clarendon 243 200 244 400 245 600 246 500 247 100 9.2
St. Catherine 491 800 494 200 496 600 498 500 499 600 18.5

p - provisional

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

2010 Round of Population and Housing Census
The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) began
preparations for the execution of the Population and Housing
Census. A Technical Committee was established and began
reviewing possible questions and areas of interest. A draft
questionnaire was developed for pretesting. With support from
UNFPA, STATIN participated in several regional workshops and
the finalization of a core set of questions for investigation by all
countries in the English-speaking Caribbean.
Study on the Impact of Remittances
The UNICEF supported study on “Children in Jamaica: the
Impact of Migration and Remittances” was finalized. The main
findings of the study include:
– the existence of a strong familial kinship network among
the working class makes it easy for a mother to migrate
and leave her children with relatives, friends, or neigh-
bours;
– the wealthy benefit disproportionately more from remit-
tances than the poor, both in terms of their numbers re-
ceiving and the share of total remittances. Over the last
five years, the households receiving remittances among
the wealthiest quintile increased to 48.6 per cent in 2007
from 35.0 per cent in 2001, while it remained constant at
26.0 per cent within the poorest quintile with the highest
proportion of children over the same period;
– difference in remittance behaviour by sex — women tend
to focus their remittances on children;
– remittances contribute to social safety nets, helping fami-
lies send children to school and cause a decrease in de-
mand for child labour in the home country and conse-
quently lead to in creased school en rol ment and
attendance;
– the immediate psychosocial effects of migration on chil-
dren range from feelings of abandonment,
“parentification” — as children are given the re-
sponsibility for rearing themselves as well as, at
times, their fathers and siblings — and
destabilization. Children left by their parents some-
times spend their entire lives struggling with feel-
ings of rejection, abandonment and loss;
– migration can result in family disintegration, in-
creased vulnerability to abuse and exploitation (es-
pecially when mothers are absent), poor learning
achievements, risky behaviour, violence and teen
pregnancy; and
– the absence of mothers is a key determinant to the
involvement of children with substance abuse
and/or with violence. Migration of mothers as op-
posed to fathers is a more significant factor in chil-
dren left behind being physically and sexually
abused.
Findings from this study will be used to inform the
development of Jamaica’s Policy on International Migration
and Development.
EC-UN Joint Migration and Development Initiative
(JMDI)
The JMDI is a component of a global programme which
targets civil society organizations in the area of migration
and development. Project proposals were submitted and
reviewed. Implementation of proposals will be developed
over a three-year period. The objective of the JMDI is to
support the work of civil society organizations and local
authorities in contributing to the link between migration and
development. The initiative aims to achieve the following:
– establish and support networks on migration and de-
velopment;
– identify best practices and share information at the
local and international level; and

– assist in the integration of information into policy-making
on migration and development.
Three projects were chosen under the JMDI:
– The Diaspora Foundation in partnership with a UK-based
women’s organization will develop a database of skilled
members of the diaspora in the UK. This will be used to
benefit local CBOs, learning institutions, diaspora organi-
zations and policy makers;
– Hope for Children Development Company Limited and
HelpAge International will collaborate to increase the
protection and social inclusion of migrants and their fami-
lies through improved access to social services and liveli-
hood opportunities for the families left behind; and
– The Institute for Sustainable Development, UWI and the
UK-based Female Prisoners Welfare Project will build ca-
pacities for deportees through skills training. The project
will emphasize the protection of children of deportees and
those incarcerated overseas.
It is envisaged that these projects will assist in building
capacities for overcoming some of the barriers in human mobility
and development.
OUTLOOK
A Programme Management and Implementation Unit (PMIU)
will be established to manage the implementation of activities
under the Modernization Programme of the Civil Registration and
Vital Statistics System. Phase 1 of the programme will be
implemented over the next 18 months.
20.15
Arising from the review of the ICPD+15, several
priorities have been highlighted for the next five years,
including:
– the development of a National Policy on Interna-
tional Migration and Development;
– formulation of policies and plans for addressing the
emerging issues of population ageing and the
growth of the elderly population;
– strengthening the capacities and expanding safe
motherhood programmes;
– expanding programmes for HIV/AIDS and Sexu-
ally Transmitted Infections; and
– improving and increasing research capabilities in
the area of gender.
Preparation will be made for participation in the 4th
Global Forum on Migration and Development in Mexico.
Outputs from the Forum will be integrated in the
development of a Policy on Migration and Development.
The Jamaica Diaspora Advisory Board and the Joint
Select Committee of the Houses of Parliament on Diaspora
Matters will have further consultations on the issues of
governance, voting rights and dual citizenship. The fourth
biennial Conference will be held June 14–17, 2010 under the
theme, “Partnering for Transformation: Jamaica and its
Diaspora”.n
CHAPTER 21

THE LABOUR MARKET

INTRODUCTION losses. As a result of the job losses in the Mining and Quarry-
ing sub-industry, employment in the sub-industry, which has
traditionally been one of the least labour-intensive, fell by

I n 2009 the labour market began to experience the effects of the

global economic downturn. The downturn which had begun to
affect the economy in late 2008, intensified in 2009, with a slow-
ing of demand for goods and services both locally and internation-
ally. This was evident in the closure of the operations of two of the
country’s alumina producers, West Indies Alumina Company
(Windalco) and Alumina Partners of Jamaica (Alpart), as the
global demand for alumina plummeted. This, along with downsiz-
ing in other areas of the economy, resulted in thousands of job
42.9 per cent. However, of the 15 sub-industries, five experi-
enced an increase in employment. The most notable among
them was Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry & Fishing, which
recorded a 4.8 per cent increase and which, in keeping with
tradition, remains one of the most labour-intensive. Overall,
the employed labour force experienced a decline of 3.1 per
cent to 1 126 100 due to declines in employment in both the
Goods Producing Industry (by 3.4 per cent) and the Services
Industry (by 3.0 per cent). The average unemployment rate

TABLE 21.1
MAIN LABOUR FORCE INDICATORS BY SEX, 2008-2009
('000)
2008r 2009p
MAIN INDICATORS January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average

BOTH SEXES
Labour Force 1 299.2 1 289.3 1 300.4 1 309.3 1 299.6 1 280.6 1 268.3 1 273.7 1 259.2 1 270.5
Employed Labour Force 1 167.5 1 138.5 1 168.2 1 174.5 1 162.2 1 138.1 1 123.2 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 126.1
Unemployed Labour Force 131.7 150.8 132.1 134.7 137.3 142.5 145.1 144.0 145.8 144.4
Unemployment Rate (%) 10.1 11.7 10.2 10.3 10.6 11.1 11.4 11.3 11.6 11.4
Job-Seeking Rate (%) 6.4 7.2 6.1 6.7 6.6 6.5 7.4 7.8 7.2 7.2
Labour Force Participation Rate 65.7 65.0 65.4 65.7 65.5 64.1 63.5 63.7 62.9 63.6

MALE
Labour Force 714.5 709.8 713.4 714.9 713.2 700.7 697.8 702.9 692.6 698.5
Employed Labour Force 669.1 647.9 665.5 662.0 661.1 641.4 633.7 644.0 636.8 639.0
Unemployed Labour Force 45.4 61.8 47.8 52.8 52.0 59.3 64.1 58.9 55.7 59.5
Unemployment Rate (%) 6.4 8.7 6.7 7.4 7.3 8.5 9.2 8.4 8.1 8.6
Job-Seeking Rate (%) 4.5 5.7 4.2 5.2 4.9 5.4 6.4 6.1 5.4 5.8
Labour Force Participation Rate 74.3 73.6 73.8 73.8 73.9 72.1 71.8 72.2 71.1 71.8

FEMALE
Labour Force 584.7 579.5 587.0 594.4 586.4 579.9 570.5 570.8 566.6 572.0
Employed Labour Force 498.4 490.6 502.7 512.5 501.1 496.7 489.5 485.6 476.6 487.1
Unemployed Labour Force 86.3 89.0 84.3 81.9 85.4 83.2 81.0 85.1 90.1 84.9
Unemployment Rate (%) 14.8 15.3 14.4 13.8 14.6 14.3 14.2 14.9 15.9 14.8
Job-Seeking Rate (%) 9.1 9.2 8.5 8.6 8.9 8.0 8.8 9.8 9.4 9.0
Labour Force Participation Rate 57.5 56.9 57.5 58.1 57.5 56.5 55.6 55.6 55.1 55.7

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

 21.2

TABLE 21.2
LABOUR FORCE BY AGE GROUP AND SEX, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p

AGE January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average
BOTH SEXES
TOTAL 1 299.2 1 289.3 1 300.4 1 309.3 1 299.6 1 280.6 1 268.3 1 273.7 1 259.2 1 270.5
14-19 44.9 44.5 43.2 45.5 44.5 39.6 36.0 38.2 34.1 37.0
20-24 151.6 147.4 149.8 142.8 147.9 137.3 132.7 136.4 135.1 135.4
25-34 367.7 362.8 362.5 364.8 364.5 359.1 358.9 352.8 352.9 355.9
35-44 359.3 357.8 363.3 365.5 361.5 361.2 356.2 360.4 355.2 358.3
45-54 206.8 204.1 203.4 211.6 206.5 208.4 206.7 206.5 207.5 207.3
55-64 105.7 103.7 110.2 111.1 107.7 108.5 106.6 109.6 108.6 108.3
65 and over 63.2 69.0 68.0 68.0 67.1 66.5 71.2 69.8 65.8 68.3

MALE
TOTAL 714.5 709.8 713.4 714.9 713.2 700.7 697.8 702.9 692.6 698.5
14-19 25.8 25.1 25.9 26.9 25.9 23.2 22.7 23.1 20.6 22.4
20-24 82.6 80.7 81.9 80.4 81.4 74.8 72.2 78.0 74.7 74.9
25-34 192.4 190.0 189.4 189.6 190.4 188.7 188.2 184.4 186.0 186.8
35-44 188.5 190.0 189.2 190.5 189.6 189.0 190.1 190.5 186.6 189.1
45-54 115.5 114.7 115.5 115.7 115.4 114.4 114.0 115.5 115.1 114.8
55-64 67.1 64.2 65.5 67.0 66.0 65.8 63.2 63.5 65.4 64.5
65 and over 42.6 45.1 46.0 44.8 44.6 44.8 47.4 47.9 44.2 46.1

FEMALE
TOTAL 584.7 579.5 587.0 594.4 586.4 579.9 570.5 570.8 566.6 572.0
14-19 19.1 19.4 17.3 18.6 18.6 16.4 13.3 15.1 13.5 14.6
20-24 69.0 66.7 67.9 62.4 66.5 62.5 60.5 58.4 60.4 60.5
25-34 175.3 172.8 173.1 175.2 174.1 170.4 170.7 168.4 166.9 169.1
35-44 170.8 167.8 174.1 175.0 171.9 172.2 166.1 169.9 168.6 169.2
45-54 91.3 89.4 87.9 95.9 91.1 94.0 92.7 91.0 92.4 92.5
55-64 38.6 39.5 44.7 44.1 41.7 42.7 43.4 46.1 43.2 43.9
65 and over 20.6 23.9 22.0 23.2 22.4 21.7 23.8 21.9 21.6 22.3

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

increased by 0.8 percentage point to 11.4 per cent, the highest
since 2004, while the youth unemployment rate increased by 1.2
percentage points to 27.1 per cent, the highest since 2003. Other
notable developments in the labour market included the imple-
mentation of a public sector wage freeze; the setting up of the Pub-
lic Sector Transformation Team to oversee the rationalization of
the public sector; a decrease in the number of industrial disputes
from 199 to 158; and an increase in the minimum wage rate to $4
070.00 per 40-hour week, effective May 2009.
LABOUR FORCE AND EMPLOYMENT
The analysis presented in this section is based on data from the
Labour Force Surveys conducted by the Statistical Institute of
Jamaica (STATIN) during 2008 and 2009. As such, STATIN’s
official definitions are used for all concepts, unless otherwise
stated. The focus of the analysis is on changes in the main labour
market indicators using averages of the quarterly surveys.
The Labour Force
The labour force consists of persons 14 years and over
who were “employed in any form of economic activity for
one hour or more during the survey week”, and persons who
were unemployed, that is, “although had no job, were
looking for work, or wanted and were willing to accept work
during the reference week”. In 2009, the number of persons
in the labour force declined by 2.2 per cent to 1 270 500. This
involved a decline of 14 700 males and 14 400 females, to
result in 698 500 male and 572 000 female labour force
participants (Table 21.1). Males continued to comprise the
majority of the labour force (55.0 per cent). An examination
of the data for the period 2005–2009 shows that the number
of males increased by 2.5 per cent (to 698 500 from 681
500), while the number of females increased by 5.6 per cent
(to 572 000 from 541 600).
 21.3

TABLE 21.3
EMPLOYED LABOUR FORCE BY AGE GROUP AND SEX, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p

SEX AND AGE January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average

MALE 669.1 647.9 665.5 662.0 661.1 641.4 633.7 644.0 636.8 639.0
Youth (14-24 yrs.) 87.9 81.3 89.5 85.9 86.2 77.9 72.4 77.8 73.6 75.4
Adults (25 yrs. and over) 581.2 566.6 576.0 576.1 575.0 563.5 561.3 566.2 563.2 563.6
25-34 182.9 175.3 175.9 177.0 177.8 170.6 166.9 167.0 171.8 169.1
35-44 180.0 177.3 181.0 180.9 179.8 178.1 179.7 180.6 177.0 178.9
45 yrs. and over 218.3 214.0 219.1 218.2 217.4 214.8 214.7 218.6 214.4 215.6

FEMALE 498.4 490.6 502.7 512.5 501.1 496.7 489.5 485.6 476.6 487.1
Youth (14-24 yrs.) 59.3 56.4 57.2 52.8 56.4 54.2 52.5 48.8 45.2 50.2
Adults (25 yrs. and over) 439.1 434.2 445.5 459.7 444.6 442.5 437.0 436.8 431.4 436.9
25-34 146.8 143.8 147.6 148.3 146.6 139.6 140.6 139.9 137.4 139.4
35-44 150.4 147.1 151.7 159.1 152.0 153.5 146.5 148.0 146.4 148.6
45 yrs. and over 141.9 143.3 146.2 152.3 145.9 149.4 149.9 148.9 147.6 149.0

TOTAL 1 167.5 1 138.5 1 168.2 1 174.5 1 162.2 1 138.1 1 123.2 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 126.1

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

The labour force participation rate, which shows the labour
force as a percentage of the population 14 years and over, declined
by 1.9 percentage points to 63.6 per cent. The male participation
rate declined by 2.1 percentage points to 71.8 per cent, while the
female participation rate declined by 1.8 percentage points to 55.7
per cent. An examination of the data for the past 10 years showed
that over the period, the male participation rate decreased by 1.2
percentage points, while the female participation rate and the total
participation rate increased by 1.4 percentage points and 0.3
percentage point respectively. Of the total labour force, 56.2 per
cent were persons 25–44 years of age.
The number of adult participants (25 years and over) in the
labour force decreased by 0.8 per cent to 1 098 100, while the
number of youth participants (14–24 years) declined by 10.4 per
cent to 172 400 (Table 21.2).
Persons Outside the Labour Force1 are defined as individuals
14 years and over who were not classified as being employed or
unemployed in the survey. A total of 729 200 persons were outside
the labour force, 62.4 per cent of whom was female. These
persons were primarily in the 14–19 age group (36.6 per cent) and
the 65 years and over age group (21.8 per cent). The number of
persons who were “At School Full Time” declined by 7.3 per cent
to 193 500, while those who “Did Not Want to Work” increased by
12.1 per cent to 449 100. These two categories, at 26.5 per
cent and 61.6 per cent of the total respectively, represented
the main reasons for persons being outside the labour force.
Other reasons included “Incapable of Working” (4.5 per
cent), “Staying Home with Dependents” (3.0 per cent) and
“Illness” (1.7 per cent).
Employment
The employed labour force declined by 3.1 per cent
to 1 126 100 and males continued to represent the
majority at 56.8 per cent. Notwithstanding, the male
employed labour force declined by 3.3 per cent (22 100
persons) to 639 000, while the female employed labour force
declined by 2.8 per cent (14 000 persons) to 487 100. The
decline in the male employed labour force was largely due to
a reduction in employment opportunities in the Construction
& Installation sub-industry, which is one of the most
labour-intensive sub industries, while the decline in the
female employed labour force was largely due to decreased
employment opportunities in the Wholesale & Retail,
Repair of Motor Vehicles, Cycles, Personal & Household
Goods sub-industry.

1 Included in this category are full-time students, persons engaged in home duties, persons incapable of working, and persons not
wanting work or not available for work.
 21.4
30
25
Unemployment Rate (%)
20
15
10
5
1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008
1981 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 2009
Year
FIGURE 21A: AVERAGE UNEMPLOYMENT RATES, JAMAICA (1980-2009
— Note: Prior to 1988, the Labour Force Survey was conducted twice per year in April and October.
— For consistency, the data presented above represent the average unemployment rates for the April and October quarters for all years.
Employment by Age and Sex
The employment data were analysed using four main
demographic groups: male and female youth (14–24) and male
and female adults (25 years and over). During the year, the number
of employed youth decreased by 11.9 per cent to 125 600 persons
(Table 21.3). The decline was visible in both the 14–19 and the
20–24 age groups. By sex, employed female youth declined by
11.0 per cent to 50 200 persons, and employed male youth
declined by 12.5 per cent to 75 400. Consequently, the proportion
of youth in the employed labour force declined by 1.1 percentage
point to 11.2 per cent.
The number of employed adults declined by 1.9 per cent
to 1 000 500. Employed male adults declined by 2.0 per cent to
563 600, and female adults declined by 1.8 per cent to 436 900. In
all age groups males experienced declines, with the largest
absolute decline occurring in the 25–34 age group. Increases were
recorded in two age groups for females, with the largest absolute
increase occurred in the 55–64 age group and the largest absolute
decline occurring in the 25–34 age group.
Employment by Employment Status
There were declines in the number of persons employed in
both the public and private sectors resulting in a private sector
worker to public sector worker ratio of approximately 6.9:1. The
public sector, represented by Paid Government Employees
decreased by 1.7 per cent to 142 600 persons (Table 21.4). In this
category, females comprised the majority at 60.7 per cent.
The private sector decreased by 3.4 per cent to 981 100, with
males comprising 59.3 per cent. The sector includes Paid
Non-Government Employees, Unpaid Workers, Employers and
Own Account Workers. The latter two categories are generally
used as a proxy for the self-employed. There were increases in the
number of Employers by 1.2 per cent to 33 600, and in Own
Account Workers by 3.5 per cent to 415 100, resulting in the
self-employed accounting for 39.9 per cent of total employment.
Paid Non-Government Employees declined by 8.5 per cent
to 518 100, but continued to account for the largest
proportion (46.0 per cent) of total employment. The number
of Unpaid Workers declined by 0.7 per cent to 14 300
persons, indicating that fewer persons worked without
wages in the operation of a farm or business, owned in most
cases by other members of the family.
Employment by Industry
Employment in the Goods Producing Industry declined
by 3.4 per cent to 406 700, while employment in the Services
Industry declined by 3.0 per cent to 719 400 (Table 21.5).
The Services Industry therefore accounted for 63.9 per cent
of total employment.
In the Goods Producing Industry, employment increased
in Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry & Fishing by 4.8 per cent
(10 500 persons) to 227 400. There were declines in: Mining
and Quarrying by 42.9 per cent (4 200 persons) to 5 600;
Manufacturing by 8.9 per cent (7 600 persons) to 77 700; and
Construction & Installation by 11.9 per cent (13 000
persons) to 96 000. The increase in the Agriculture, Hunting,
Forestry & Fishing sub-industry occurred as a result of
increased output in Traditional Export Crops and Other
Agricultural Crops, driven by more favourable weather
conditions and the Ministry of Agriculture’s Productivity
Programme. The decline in Mining and Quarrying resulted
mainly from the closure of the Windalco and Alpart plants,
driven by the downturn in the global demand for aluminium.
The declines in Manufacturing and Construction &
Installation also reflected the decline in economic activity in
those two sub-industries.
In the Services Industry, employment increased in four
sub-industries. The main increases were in Financial
Intermediation by 15.3 per cent (3 400 persons) to 25 700
and Education by 3.5 per cent (2 300 persons) to 67 200.
Financial Intermediation experienced growth in
 21.5

TABLE 21.4
EMPLOYED LABOUR FORCE BY EMPLOYMENT STATUS, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p

EMPLOYMENT STATUS January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average

Paid Government Employee 142.4 143.4 143.0 151.6 145.1 149.0 139.7 137.4 144.1 142.6
Paid Non-Government Employee 591.4 549.8 569.8 555.0 566.5 540.7 520.4 515.2 496.2 518.1
Unpaid Worker 14.1 15.9 13.9 13.6 14.4 13.4 15.2 14.6 14.0 14.3
Employer 31.5 29.6 34.9 36.7 33.2 32.6 35.9 33.0 32.7 33.6
Own Account Worker 385.3 398.3 405.3 415.6 401.1 400.0 410.0 426.5 423.7 415.1
Not Reported 2.8 1.5 1.3 2.0 1.9 2.4 2.0 2.9 2.7 2.5

TOTAL 1 167.5 1 138.5 1 168.2 1 174.5 1 162.2 1 138.1 1 123.2 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 126.1

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

employment despite the flat GDP performance in this
sub-industry, while the increase in education was mainly related to
an increase in the number of spaces in public schools at the
secondary level by 2 000 and expansion by private education and
training institutions.
Declines were recorded in the remaining seven Services
sub-industries. The main declines were in: Public
Administration & Defense, Compulsory Social Services by
7.4 per cent (4 100 persons) to 51 100; Transport, Storage &
Communications by 7.2 per cent (5 900 persons) to 76 500;

TABLE 21.5
EMPLOYED LABOUR FORCE BY INDUSTRY, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p
January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average

I GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY 423.0 415.6 425.1 419.7 420.9 407.2 405.3 409.6 404.7 406.7
Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry & Fishing 207.5 218.3 218.0 223.6 216.9 220.1 229.8 231.7 228.1 227.4
Mining & Quarrying 10.4 10.4 9.0 9.3 9.8 7.4 6.0 3.9 5.0 5.6
Manufacturing 84.1 87.6 88.3 81.1 85.3 77.9 77.6 79.0 76.3 77.7
Construction & Installation 121.0 99.3 109.8 105.7 109.0 101.8 91.9 95.0 95.3 96.0

II SERVICES INDUSTRY 744.5 722.9 743.1 754.8 741.3 730.9 717.9 720.0 708.7 719.4
Electricity, Gas & Water Supply 8.5 5.8 7.1 9.1 7.6 6.9 7.7 10.0 7.8 8.1
Wholesale & Retail, Repair of MV,C,
Personal & Household Goods 230.7 219.2 224.1 219.5 223.4 214.9 212.4 219.4 212.5 214.8
Hotels & Restaurant Services 75.5 81.5 85.2 78.6 80.2 78.1 84.2 76.4 76.9 78.9
Transport, Storage & Communications 83.6 78.9 82.9 84.2 82.4 81.0 77.6 74.7 72.7 76.5
Financial Intermediation 21.1 22.4 24.1 21.6 22.3 24.7 24.0 27.2 26.7 25.7
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 45.6 50.4 50.0 54.7 50.2 42.1 49.2 55.6 45.9 48.2
Public Administration & Defence;
Compulsory Social Security 54.6 56.3 56.9 52.9 55.2 54.1 51.2 47.4 51.8 51.1
Education 61.9 60.9 64.5 72.2 64.9 66.5 65.8 66.3 70.0 67.2
Health & Social Work 31.3 27.3 32.1 33.6 31.1 31.4 25.8 29.4 29.8 29.1
Other Community, Social and Personal
Service Activities 54.8 54.0 54.0 58.4 55.3 59.6 56.3 56.1 54.3 56.6
Private Households with Employed Persons 68.2 61.6 56.9 63.6 62.6 67.0 62.2 51.4 57.3 59.5

III INDUSTRY NOT SPECIFIED 8.7 4.6 5.3 6.4 6.3 4.6 1.5 6.1 3.0 3.8

TOTAL 1 167.5 1 138.5 1 168.2 1 174.5 1162.2 1 138.1 1 123.2 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 126.1

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica
 21.6
and Wholesale & Retail, Repair of Motor Vehicles, Cycles,
Personal & Household Goods by 3.9 per cent (8 600 persons) to
214 800. The decline in Transport, Storage & Communications
may be attributed to decreased air passenger travel and maritime
cargo volume, while the decline in Wholesale & Retail, Repair of
Motor Vehicles, Cycles, Personal & Household Goods may be
attributed to lower sales of consumer goods and the decline in the
stock of loans by commercial banks for personal consumption.
This was a consequence of the negative economic climate, which
was characterized by a fall in both consumer and business
confidence compared with 2008. Similarly, poor economic
performance in the other sub-industries contributed to the decline
in employment in those areas.
As usual the three largest employers were: Agriculture,
Hunting, Forestry & Fishing (20.2 per cent); Wholesale & Retail,
Repair of Motor Vehicles, Cycles, Personal & Household Goods
(19.1 per cent); and Construction and Installation (8.5 per cent).
Employment by Occupation Group
Employment increased in two occupation groups and declined
in five. Skilled Agriculture & Fishery Workers experienced the
larger percentage increase (6.0 per cent) to 221 100, while Clerks
experienced an increase of 2.8 per cent to 105 400. Employment
declined in Elementary Occupations by 11.7 per cent to 144 700;
Craft & Related Trade Workers by 10.5 per cent to 152 300; Plant
& Machine Operators by 8.4 per cent to 65 200; Professionals,
Senior Officials & Technicians by 3.3 per cent to 220 300; while
Service Workers, Shop & Market Sales Workers moved to 216 300,
a change of 0.2 per cent.
As per usual, three occupation groups continued to be
dominated by males: Plant & Machine Operators & Assemblers
(93.7 per cent); Craft & Related Trades Workers (90.0 per cent)
and Skilled Agricultural & Fishery Workers (80.8 per cent). The
other occupation groups also continued to have higher
representation of females: Clerks (76.0 per cent); Service Workers
and Shop & Market Sales Workers (62.3 per cent); Professionals,
Senior Officials & Technicians (60.8 per cent); and Elementary
Occupations (52.7 per cent).
Full-time and Part-time Employment2
Persons employed for 35 hours or more during the survey
reference week are regarded as being employed full time, while
persons employed for less than 35 hours during the week are
defined as part time. Both Full-time and Part-time employment
declined, full-time employment by 4.2 per cent to 980 300, and
part-time employment by 4.7 per cent to 141 300 (Table 21.7). Of
the persons employed on a part-time basis, 69 300 persons (49.1
per cent) could be considered underemployed3, compared with
6 9 5 0 0 persons (46.9 per cent) in 2008.
Unemployment
Unemployment, in keeping with the standard international
definition, refers to persons who are without work, currently
available for work and either actively looking for work (seekers)
or not actively looking for work (non-seekers). There were 144
2 In keeping with an ILO project to harmonize labour market indicators among Caribbean countries, the definition of part-time and
full-time employment has been changed. Under the new definition, part time refers to less than 35 hours, while full time refers to 35
hours or more.
3 Being employed part time because only part-time employment was available is used as a proxy for underemployment.
4 The Canadian Hospitality/Skilled Worker Programme started in July 2008, hence the number of persons employed under this
programme for 2008 covers the period July to December, compared with the 2009 figure which was based on the full year.
400 unemployed persons in the labour force, with females
accounting for 58.8 per cent (Table 21.8). The number of
unemployed persons increased by 5.2 per cent, resulting in
an increase in the average unemployment rate to 11.4 per
cent from 10.6 per cent. The female unemployment rate,
which consistently exceeds that of males, was 14.8 per cent
compared with the male unemployment rate of 8.6 per cent.
An analysis of average unemployment rates for the last 30
years showed that the current rate represents the highest rate
recorded since 2004, reflecting the effect that the economic
crisis had on unemployment during the year (Figure 21A).
With regard to age, the unemployed labour force
comprised 46 700 youth and 97 700 adults, representing a
decrease of 6.2 per cent and an increase of 11.7 per cent,
respectively. The youth unemployment rate, which
remained more than three times that of adults, increased to
27.1 per cent from 25.9 per cent, while the adult
unemployment rate increased to 8.9 per cent from 7.9 per
cent. An examination of the unemployment data for the
period 2000 to 2009 showed that the youth unemployment
rate averaged 27.8 per cent, while the adult unemployment
rate averaged 8.6 per cent. Lower levels of experience,
training and certification continue to contribute to the
vulnerability of youth to unemployment.
LABOUR MIGRATION
Labour migration continues to be a feature of the
Jamaican labour market. Every year thousands of workers
are recruited from Jamaica for temporary and circular
employment, in addition to the thousands who emigrate (see
chapter on Population). Similarly, thousands of expatriates
come to Jamaica for the purpose of employment annually.
There are several private recruitment organizations that
currently operate in Jamaica, which provide recruitment for
overseas employment. In addition to these, the Ministry of
Labour and Social Security (MLSS) is responsible for the
placement of suitably qualified Jamaicans in temporary
employment in the United States of America (USA) and
Canada, through its Overseas Employment Programme. The
Ministry also controls the entry of expatriates into the
Jamaican labour force through the issuing of work permits.
Overseas Employment Programme
The Overseas Employment Programme consists of the
United States (US) Farm Work Programme; the US
Hospitality Programme; the Canadian Farm and Factory
Programme; as well as the Canadian Hospitality and Skilled
Worker Programmes, which were both introduced in 2008.
A total of 10 341 persons participated in all programmes, a
decline of 13.5 per cent compared with 2008 (Table 21.9).
There was an increase in the number of persons
employed in the Canadian Farm and Factory Programme
(to 6 082 from 6 072) and the Canadian Skilled
Worker/Hospitality Programme (to 157 from 24) 4 .
Employment in the US Farm Work Programme experienced
 21.7

a decline (by 9.3 per cent to 3 743), as did the US Hospitality
Programme (by 79.3 per cent to 359).
Participants in the US Farm Work Programme, and the
Canadian Farm and Factory Programme continued to be
predominantly male, 100.0 per cent and 97.6 per cent,
respectively. By contrast, participants in the US Hospitality
Programme and the Canadian Skilled Workers/Hospitality
Programme were predominantly female, with 56.6 per cent and
72.6 per cent respectively. Overall, males continued to be the main
recipients of employment opportunities in the Overseas
Employment Programme, accounting for 95.5 per cent of total
employment.
An examination of the data for the past 10 years indicates an
increase in the number of workers in the Canadian Farm and
Factory Programme (to 6 082 from 4 893 in 2000). There were
declines in the number of persons employed in the US Farm Work
Programme (from 4 111 in 2000 to 3 743); and in the US
Hospitality Programme (from 4 175 to 359). During the ten-year
period, the US Farm Work Programme provided an average of
3 755 employment opportunities per year, the US Hospitality
programme provided an average of 3 715, and the Canadian Farm
and Factory Programme an average of 5 695.
Under the Overseas Employment Programme, a provision is
made for workers to remit a part of their earnings under a special
savings plan that is monitored by the MLSS. Under this plan, total
remittances from workers employed in the USA in 2009 declined
by 37.4 per cent to US$6.2 million, of which, participants in the
US Farm Work Programme remitted US$4.9 million, and
participants in the US Hospitality Programme US$1.2
million. This resulted in an average remittance of
US$1 512.00 per worker. The average remittance per
hospitality worker (US$3 343.00) was 60.8 per cent higher
than the average remittance per farm worker (US$1 310.00).
Remittances from workers in the Canadian Farm and
Factory Programme increased by 1.7 per cent to C$11.9
million, resulting in an average remittance of C$1 957.00 per
worker5.
WORK PERMITS6
Under the Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth
Citizens (Employment) Act, 1964 — also known as the
Work Permit Act — foreign nationals who wish to be
employed in Jamaica must first apply to the MLSS for a
work permit. The application process includes submitting
information on the steps taken by organizations to employ
Jamaicans with the requisite training, prior to hiring foreign
nationals.
Consistent with the general decline in employment, there
was a decline in the number of work permits that were
approved by the MLSS. Approvals were granted for 3 569
work permits, a decline of 29.8 per cent compared with 2008
(Table 21.10). Of this total, 1 843 applications were
categorized as new, a decrease of 36.1 per cent compared
with 2008; while 1 726 applications were categorized as
renewals, a decrease of 21.6 per cent. Disaggregation of the

TABLE 21.6
EMPLOYED LABOUR FORCE BY OCCUPATION GROUP, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p

OCCUPATION GROUP January April July October Annual January April July October Annual
Average Average

Professionals, Senior Officials & Technicians 227.0 219.9 228.1 236.4 227.9 216.4 215.8 223.5 225.6 220.3
Clerks 104.0 93.3 107.2 105.6 102.5 107.1 108.5 109.6 96.3 105.4
Service Workers and Shop & Market Sales 211.2 219.1 215.1 221.7 216.8 219.6 213.0 217.1 215.5 216.3
Workers
Skilled Agricultural & Fishery Workers 196.4 210.0 210.3 217.6 208.6 213.7 221.7 226.2 222.8 221.1
Craft & Related Trades Workers 180.1 168.8 169.2 162.2 170.1 157.1 147.4 154.4 150.2 152.3
Plant & Machine Operators & Assemblers 73.6 67.5 72.0 71.8 71.2 65.0 65.5 67.4 62.7 65.2
Elementary Occupations 172.7 159.0 165.4 158.3 163.9 158.6 150.4 130.4 139.5 144.7
Occupation not specified 2.5 0.9 0.9 0.9 1.3 0.6 0.9 1.0 0.8 0.8

TOTAL 1 167.5 1 138.5 1 168.2 1 174.5 1 162.2 1 138.1 1 123.2 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 126.1

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

5 Data on remittances from workers in the Canadian Skilled Workers/Hospitality Programme were not available at the time of writing.
6 The analysis in this section is based on the Jamaica Industrial Classification 1987, as data using the Jamaica Industrial Classification
2005 were unavailable.
 21.8

TABLE 21.7
FULL-TIME AND PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT DURING SURVEY WEEK, 2008-2009
(`000)

2008r 2009p

HOURS WORKED DURING July October Annual July October Annual

SURVEY WEEK Average Average

Part Time (Less than 35 Hours) 148.8 147.8 148.3 143.8 138.7 141.3

Full Time (35 Hours or More) 1 019.4 1 026.7 1 023.1 985.8 974.7 980.3

TOTAL 1 168.2 1 174.5 1 171.4 1 129.6 1 113.4 1 121.5

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

There was a public holiday in the survey week for January 2008 and 2009, and April 2008, which led to a reduction in the hours worked. As such, the annual
averages represent the average of the July and October quarters only.
In keeping with an ILO project to harmonize labour market indicators among Caribbean countries, the definition of part-time and full-time employmnet has
been changed. Under the new definition, part time refers to less than 35 hours, while full time refers to 35 hours or more.
p - preliminary
r - revised

Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica

data by sex indicated that males continued to receive a larger
proportion of approved work permits (77.3 per cent).
There was an increase in the number of work permits approved
for Elementary Occupations to 46 from 32. The remaining
occupation groups saw reductions in the number of approved
work permits: Skilled Agriculture & Fishery Workers from 88 to
8; Craft & Related Trade Workers by 71.2 per cent to 351; Service
Workers and Shop & Market Sales Workers by 28.5 per cent to
366; Clerks from 133 to 105; Professionals, Senior Officials &
Technicians by 13.3 per cent to 2 616; and Plant & Machine
Operators & Assemblers from 81 to 77.
In relation to sub-industries, most work permits were
approved for persons employed in Wholesale & Retail
Trades, Hotels & Restaurant Services (57.0 per cent) and
Construction & Installation (16.0 per cent). There were
increases in two sub-industries: Agriculture, Forestry &
Fishing (by 15.7 per cent to 125); and Electricity, Gas &
Water (by 145.8 per cent to 59). There were declines in
Mining, Quarrying & Refining (by 68.3 per cent to 19);
Construction & Installation (by 61.4 per cent to 570);
Manufacture (by 57.1 per cent to 75); Finance, Insurance,
Real Estate & Business Services (by 48.6 per cent to 74);
Transport, Storage & Communication (by 25.2 per cent to
259); Community, Social & Personal Services (by 19.6 per

TABLE 21.8
UNEMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR DEMOGRAPHIC GROUPS, 2008-2009
('000)

2008r 2009p

January April July October Annual Rate January April July October Annual Rate
Average (%) Average (%)
TOTAL 131.7 150.8 132.1 134.7 137.3 10.6 142.5 145.1 144.0 145.8 144.4 11.4
Youth (14-24 yrs.) 49.2 54.2 46.2 49.6 49.8 25.9 44.8 43.7 47.9 50.4 46.7 27.1
Adults (25 yrs. and over) 82.5 96.6 85.9 85.1 87.5 7.9 97.7 101.4 96.1 95.4 97.7 8.9

MALE 45.4 61.8 47.8 52.8 52.0 7.3 59.3 64.1 58.9 55.7 59.5 8.5
Youth (14-24 yrs.) 20.5 24.5 18.3 21.4 21.2 19.8 20.1 22.5 23.2 21.7 21.9 22.5
Adults (25 yrs. and over) 24.9 37.3 29.5 31.4 30.8 5.1 39.2 41.6 35.7 34.0 37.6 6.3

FEMALE 86.3 89.0 84.3 81.9 85.4 14.6 83.2 81.0 85.1 90.1 84.9 14.8
Youth (14-24 yrs.) 28.7 29.7 27.9 28.2 28.6 33.6 24.7 21.2 24.7 28.7 24.8 33.0
Adults (25 yrs. and over) 57.6 59.3 56.4 53.7 56.8 11.3 58.5 59.8 60.4 61.4 60.0 12.1

Note: Discrepancies due to rounding

p - preliminary
r - revised
Source: Statistical Institute of Jamaica
 21.9

BOX 1
LEGISLATION TO WHICH NEW AMENDMENTS ARE PROPOSED
NAME OF LEGISLATION PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
Maternity Leave Act Increase of maternity leave period with pay and to examine the possibility of
providing for paternity leave
Labour Officers (Powers) Act Increase the powers of the Labour Inspectorate in line with the additional
responsibililies to be brought on by the enactment of the Occupational
Safety and Health legislation and increase fines and penalties under the Act
Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth Citizens Act To facilitate the categories of CARICOM nationals exempted from the work
permit requirement, to remove work permit exemptions for certain other
categories of foreign nationals, and to increase the fines and penalties for
breaches of the provisions
Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Skilled Persons) Act To facilitate the increase of categories of workers who can enter Jamaica
without a work permit
Foreign Recruitment Act To have breaches of the provisions prosecuted by the Resident Magistrate's
Court instead of the Circuit Court as now exists
The Recruiting of Workers Act To increase the fines and penalties for breaches of the provisions
Employment (Equal Pay for Men and Women) Act To increase the fines and penalties for breaches of the provisions
Workmen Compensation Act To facilitate protection from on-the-job injury and to increase the fines and
penalties for breaches of the provisions
Apprenticeship Act Amendments in keeping with flexi-time proposals
Holiday (Public General) Act Amendments in keeping with flexi-time proposals
Shops and Offices Act Amendments in keeping with flexi-time proposals
Women (Employment of) Act Amendments in keeping with flexi-time proposals
Occupational Health & Safety Bill To provide for increased safety standards at the workplace
Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes (Amendment) Bill To faciltate the hearing of disputes involving non-unionized workers by the Industrial
Disputes Tribunal

Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

cent to 353); and Wholesale & Retail Trades, Hotels &
Restaurants (by 12.0 per cent to 2 035).
Expatriate workers were predominantly from China (961),
followed by India (713), which resulted in Asia having the largest
proportion of approved work permits (53.0 per cent). Europe
accounted for 14.9 per cent of the total, with expatriates arriving
primarily from Great Britain (121) and Spain (99). The Caribbean
accounted for 11.0 per cent, with expatriates arriving mainly from
Dominican Republic (253). Latin America accounted for 10.2 per
cent, with expatriates arriving mainly from Mexico (119) and
Colombia (103). North America accounted for 8.3 per cent, with
expatriates arriving from the USA (226) and Canada (70). Oceania
accounted for 0.5 per cent, with expatriates arriving mainly
from Australia (13).
Work permits are granted for individuals to be employed
in Jamaica for periods ranging from less than three months to
three years. In 2009, 52.5 per cent of work permits issued
were granted for “six to less than 12 months”, and 23.1 per
cent were granted for “12 to less than 24 months”. Under the
Work Permit Act, the MLSS may also grant exemptions
from work permits. A total of 1 874 exemptions were
granted, a decrease of 9.8 per cent compared with 2008. A
large number of exemptions were granted to persons
employed by statutory bodies/government (21.6 per cent)
and persons covered by the 14- or 30-day clause7 (21.5 per

TABLE 21.9
JAMAICANS EMPLOYED IN NORTH AMERICA UNDER THE OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME
BY SEX AND TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, 2008-2009
Canadian Skilled Worker/
US Farm Work US Hospitality Canadian Farm Hospitality TOTAL
Programme Programme & Factory Programme Programme
2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009

MALE 4 128 3 743 729 156 5 927 5 937 17 43 10 801 9 879

FEMALE 0 0 1006 203 145 145 7 114 1 158 462
TOTAL 4 128 3 743 1 735 359 6 072 6 082 24 157 11 959 10 341

Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

7 Under the 14- or 30-day clause, special provision is made for skilled professionals and technicians employed for a short period in the
monitoring and maintenance of plants, equipment and machinery to operate without a work permit.
 21.10
cent). There was a decline in the number of exemptions approved
for CARICOM nationals who are graduates of select CARICOM
universities with diplomas and certificates from 142 to 0. There
were also reductions in the number of exemptions granted: to
Ministers of Religion by 24.8 per cent to 255; under the 14- or
30-day clause by 24.0 per cent to 403; persons employed by
statutory bodies/government by 18.8 per cent to 405; and foreign
husbands of Jamaican wives by 5.8 per cent to 213. On the other
hand, there were increases in the number of exemptions granted to
employees at the University of the West Indies (UWI) to 41 from
11; persons qualified as “Caribbean skilled persons” under the
CARICOM (Free Movement of Skilled Persons) Act 1997 by
257.9 per cent to 272; foreign wives of Jamaican husbands by 11.6
per cent to 269; and employees at the University Hospital of the
West Indies (UHWI) to 16 from 13.
LABOUR MARKET REFORM
The MLSS continued to lead the process of labour market
reform, which included the review of labour legislation. In
pursuing this mandate, several pieces of legislation were amended
and work continued on several others.
Amendments were made to increase the fines and penalties
associated with the Factories Act and the Holidays with Pay Act.
Amendments to the Holidays With Pay Orders, Employment
Agencies Regulations Act and Minimum Wage Act were initiated
and are in various stages of completion. In addition, there are
several other pieces of legislation which the MLSS proposes to
amend (Box 1).
WAGES, SALARIES AND BENEFITS
8 was $18.9 million for a Chief Executive Officer in
Earnings in Large Establishments
The analysis in this section is based on the aggregation of the
findings of the “Employment, Earnings and Hours Worked in
Large Establishments” quarterly survey conducted by STATIN in
firms employing ten or more persons in all industries excluding
Agriculture, the public sector, private educational institutions and
the Free Zones9.
On average, 177 398 persons were employed in large
establishments in 2009, a decrease of 1.0 per cent compared with
2008. Average weekly earnings were 10.3 per cent higher at
$16 083. This indicates an increase in purchasing power given the
inflation rate of 9.8 per cent for the corresponding period. The
highest average weekly wage was earned by workers in the
Electricity, Gas & Water sub-industry ($32 568.00), followed by
the Mining, Quarrying & Refining sub-industry ($24 000.00).
Both sub-industries traditionally pay higher levels of
remuneration and have less workers relative to the other
categories. By contrast, the lowest average earnings were reported
in Manufacture ($12 454.00). Changes in average weekly
earnings ranged from a 13.1 per cent decrease in the Mining,
Quarrying & Refining sub-industry to a 24.2 per cent increase in
the Transport, Storage and Communications sub-industry.
8 The analysis in this section is based on the Jamaica Industrial Classification 1987 as data using the Jamaica Industrial Classification
2005 were unavailable.
9 Findings from the December quarter were not available at the time of writing. For consistency, the 2008 and 2009 data represent the
March, June and September quarters.
Jamaica Employers’ Federation (JEF) Salary Survey
In 2009, the Salary and Benefits Survey for Executive,
Managerial, Supervisory, Technical, Professional,
Clerical and Hourly-rated Staff was conducted by the
Jamaica Employers’ Federation. The sample comprised
responses from 25 organizations in the public and private
sectors, the majority (24.0 per cent) of which was in the
financial services industry. The organizations in the sample
were located in the Corporate Area (48.0 per cent), Major
Towns (8.0 per cent) and Rural Areas (8.0 per cent). The
remaining 36.0 per cent of the sample were located in
multiple locations islandwide. Fifty-two per cent of the
organizations had 31–200 employees, 32.0 per cent
employed over 200 employees, and the remaining16.0 per
cent employed 30 persons or less.
The findings show that on a broad scale, organizations
had implemented measures such as wage freezes and wage
reductions in response to the harsh economic climate; 52.6
per cent of respondents reported implementing wage freezes
among their executive and senior managerial staff, and 77.7
per cent reported implementing wage freezes among their
clerical and professional staff. With relation to managerial
staff, 41.7 per cent projected no increase, while 37.1 per cent
projected a salary increase of between 5.0 per cent and 10.0
per cent for 2009/10. As it relates to non-managerial staff,
42.9 per cent projected a salary increase of between 5.0 per
cent and 10.0 per cent, while 39.1 per cent of the
organizations projected no increase for the same period.
In the management category, the highest salary reported
Manufacturing, and the lowest was $2.4 million for a
Managing Director in Distribution. In the non-management
category, the highest salary reported was $2.2 million for an
Accounts Receivables Supervisor and a Database
Administrator, while the lowest was $1.4 million for a Credit
Control Supervisor. Approximately 50.0 per cent of
companies reported that they utilized a performance-related
pay scheme in 2009, compared with 48.0 per cent in 2008.
Public Sector Settlements
The Civil Service Establishment (General) Order 2008
was updated in June 2009 to 42 521 posts, of which 955 were
not operational and slated to be abolished.
The estimated public sector wage bill for FY 2009/10 is
$126.7 billion, which is 13.6 per cent higher than the revised
figure for FY 2008/09 ($111.5 billion). The wage increase of
7.0 per cent that was agreed under the Third Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU III) between the Government of
Jamaica (GOJ) and the Jamaica Confederation of Trade
Unions (JCTU), to be implemented in April 2009 was not
paid due to the implementation of a public sector wage
freeze by the GOJ. The projected increase in the public
sector wage bill is a result of the continued payment of
increments, seniority allowances and retroactive payments.
Provisions were also made under MOU III for skills training
to be provided for public sector workers. Further to these

TABLE 21.10
APPROVED WORK PERMITS BY OCCUPATION
GROUP, 2008-2009
2008
OCCUPATION GROUP
Professionals, Senior Officials & Technicians 3 018
Clerks 133
Service Workers and Shop & Market Sales Work- 512
ers
Skilled Agricultural & Fishery Workers 88
Craft & Related Trades Workers 1 220
81
Plant & Machine Operators & Assemblers
32
Elementary Occupations
Occupation not specified 0 0
TOTAL 5 084
Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security
provisions, 1 351 persons received training islandwide in 30
different skill areas.
Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage Act, 1975, was developed to
protect workers who do not have union representation, including
persons employed in garment manufacturing, retail petrol, dry
goods, hotels and security. The minimum wage rate is defined as
the lowest wage, permitted by law, that a worker can be paid. The
Minimum Wage Advisory Commission, established under the
Minimum Wage Act, advises the MLSS on all matters relating to
the minimum wage. The Commission conducts a review of the
minimum wage annually. In May 2009, the National Minimum
Wage rate increased by 10.0 per cent to $4 070.00 per 40-hour
week, or $101.75 per hour. In June, the minimum wage rate for
Industrial Security Guards also increased by 10.0 per cent to
$6 050.00 per week, or $151.25 per hour. Other remuneration
received by security guards also increased: laundry allowance to
$27.50 per hour from $25.00; firearm allowance to $30.25 per
hour from $27.50; and dog handler’s allowance to $20.35 per hour
from $18.50. Life insurance for security guards, both during and
outside working hours, remained unchanged at $1.5 million.
The critical factors used in arriving at the minimum wage
include determining the needs of the workers, the ability of
employers to pay, and comparable wages. An effort is also made to
ensure that the new rates do not lead to lay-offs or increased levels
of unemployment.
LABOUR MANAGEMENT RELATIONS
This section focuses on labour management relations, which
involve the Government, employers and workers responding to
10 The analysis in this section is based on the Jamaica Industrial Classification 1987, as data using the Jamaica Industrial Classification
2005 were unavailable.
21.11
industrial disputes. Given the importance of a stable
industrial climate for investment and increased productivity,
one of the mandates of the MLSS is to effectively promote
peaceful labour management relations, and health and safety
2009 at the workplace.
2 616 Industrial Disputes and Work Stoppages10
105
366 The number of industrial disputes (disagreements
between employers and workers) reported to the MLSS
8 declined by 20.6 per cent to 158 (Table 21.11). The main
351 causes of these disputes were: Dismissals/Suspensions (74),
77 Bargaining/Representational Rights (30), and Wages &
46
Conditions of Employment (27). By sub-industries,
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate & Business Services
accounted for the largest proportion (26.6 per cent) of
industrial disputes reported, followed by Community, Social
3 569
& Personal Services (26.0 per cent), and Transport, Storage
& Communications (10.1 per cent).
Approximately 16 trade unions were involved in
industrial disputes. The two main trade unions involved
were the National Workers Union (NWU), which took part
in 52 disputes; and the University and Allied Workers’
Union (UAWU), which took part in 32 disputes. These trade
unions were also jointly involved in other disputes.
There were four work stoppages, a decline of 50.0 per
cent compared with 2008. Work stoppages occurred in the
Community, Social & Personal Services sub-industry (2);
Transport, Storage & Communication sub-industry (1); and
Manufacture sub-industry (1) (Table 21.12). The NWU and
the UAWU were each solely involved in one work stoppage,
they were jointly involved in another, and the fourth
involved the Union of Technical, Administrative and
Supervisory Personnel (UTASP) and the Trade Union
Congress (TUC).
Under the Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes Act,
1975, work stoppages in the essential services are illegal.
However, according to Section 9 (3) of the Act, if a report of
the dispute is submitted to the Minister of Labour 10 days
prior to the work stoppage, and the Minister fails to act, the
workers have legal grounds to engage in a work stoppage.
Work stoppages in the essential services declined from five
to one. This occurred in the Health services. The number of
work stoppages in the non-essential services remained at
three.
The number of man-days lost as a result of work
stoppages increased to 2 188 from 2 100. However, the
number of workers involved decreased from 1 300 to 944.
The average number of man-days lost per worker increased
to 2.3 from 1.6. The Community, Social & Personal Services
sub-industry recorded the highest average number of
man-days lost (1 048).
Representational Rights
Representational Rights polls are conducted by the
MLSS in order to determine whether a trade union should
have bargaining rights for a group of workers in relation to
 21.12

TABLE 21.11
INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES REPORTED BY INDUSTRY AND CAUSE, 2008-2009

WAGES & BARGAINING DISMISSALS MISCELLA- ALL CAUSES

CONDITIONS OF RIGHTS AND NEOUSa
EMPLOYMENT SUSPENSIONS
INDUSTRY

2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 4 2 1 0 4 3 0 0 9 5
Mining, Quarrying & Refining 6 1 0 1 1 6 1 4 8 12
Manufacture 5 4 13 6 6 3 2 1 26 14
Construction & Installation 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 3 1
Transport, Storage & Communications 6 4 1 4 12 5 9 3 28 16
Financing, Insurance, Real Estate
& Business Services 7 6 14 6 6 19 8 11 35 42
Community, Social &
Personal Services 7 7 16 4 22 28 20 2 65 41
Electricity, Gas & Water 1 3 4 2 2 4 4 4 11 13
Wholesale & Retail Trade, Hotels
& Restaurant Services 5 0 3 6 4 6 2 2 14 14
All Industries 41 27 53 30 58 74 47 27 199 158

a - Miscellaneous includes issues involving vacation leave, pension benefits, demotions, and unpaid bonuses.
Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

industrial relations issues. A total of 15 representational rights
polls involving 1 440 workers were conducted, which represents a
decline in the number of polls from 25 and an increase in the
number of workers involved from 1 433. Six trade unions were
involved in polling. The BITU, NWU, UAWU, UTASP/TUC and
the Union of Clerical, Administrative and Supervisory Employees
(UCASE) each won one representational rights poll and the right
to represent 490, 502, 178, 120 and 150 workers respectively.
Dispute Resolution – Conciliation and Arbitration
Under the Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes Act, there
are three stages in settling disputes in the non-essential services.
The first stage is that both parties should attempt to reach an
amicable agreement on their own. The second stage involves the
submission of a written report of the dispute by either party to the
MLSS, where attempts are made to settle the dispute by
conciliation. If the parties are unable to reach a settlement at this
stage, the dispute may be referred by the MLSS to the Industrial
Disputes Tribunal (IDT) for settlement by arbitration. A total of 28
disputes were referred to the IDT; of this total, 14 were related to
Dismissals & Suspensions and 13 to Wages & Conditions of
Employment. The IDT handed down awards for 13 disputes
during the year. Five disputes were settled by agreement or
withdrawn, resulting in 18 outstanding disputes at the end of the
year.
The MLSS has the mandate to conduct routine inspections of
employment records to investigate complaints lodged by
employees in relation to breaches of labour laws and regulations
that exist for the protection of workers and employers. The
number of routine inspections conducted by the MLSS declined
from 2 541 to 1 579. Complaints regarding breaches of labour
legislation declined by 20.7 per cent to 5 059, and the MLSS
conducted 1 491 investigations, a decline of 43.4 per cent.
The complaints received by MLSS were primarily in
relation to the Employment (Termination and Redundancy
Payments) Act (49.3 per cent) and the Holidays with Pay Act
(36.7 per cent).
Settlements made by proprietors to employees as a result
of MLSS intervention decreased from $61.3 million11 to
$52.0 million. Of this total, the majority was paid in settling
claims in relation to the Employment (Termination and
Redundancy Payments) Act ($31.5 million). Other
settlements paid were the Holidays with Pay Act ($13.9
million), the Minimum Wage Act ($6.2 million) and the
Maternity Leave Act ($0.3 million).
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Under the Factories Act, 1943, representatives from the
MLSS are required to conduct routine inspections of
factories, docks, cargo ships docked in Jamaican ports,
and building sites in which persons are employed. A
total of 2 301 inspections were conducted, an increase of 7.6
per cent compared with 2008.
The number of inspections for registered factories
increased by 7.1 per cent to 1 487; and by 49.2 per cent to
273 for ships. Conversely, the number of inspections
decreased by 13.0 per cent to 242 for unregistered factories,
by 5.2 per cent to 255 for building sites and by 55.0 per cent
to 9 for docks.
The number of special meetings held by the MLSS
regarding occupational safety and health increased to 62

11 2008 figure revised

 21.13

TABLE 21.12
WORK STOPPAGES BY INDUSTRY AND CAUSE, 2008-2009

WAGES & DISMISSALS AND MISCELLANEOUSa ALL CAUSES

CONDITIONS OF SUSPENSIONS
EMPLOYMENT
INDUSTRY

2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008 2009

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Mining, Quarrying & Refining 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Manufacture 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1
Construction & Installation 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Transport, Storage & Communications 1 1 1 0 1 0 3 1
Financing, Insurance, Real Estate
& Business Services 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Community, Social &
Personal Services 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 2
Electricity, Gas & Water 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Wholesale & Retail, Hotels
& Restaurant Services 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
All Industries 3 3 2 1 3 0 8 4

Note: No work stoppages occurred as a result of disputes related to Bargaining Rights in 2008 or 2009
a - Miscellaneous includes issues involving lay-offs, redundancies and end-of-project compensation.

Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

from 59. By contrast, in relation to complaints made regarding the The Labour Market Information System (LMIS)
operation of organizations covered under the Factories Act, the consists of three components: Labour Market Indicators,
MLSS conducted 12 special investigations compared with 17 Labour Market Services, and the Electronic Labour
investigations in 2008. Exchange (ELE). The MLSS continued to market the LMIS
through conference booths, career expos, workshops and
The MLSS also investigated breaches of safety provisions and presentations to secondary and tertiary students.
reports of on-the-job accidents that prevent an employee from
working for three or more days, or result in permanent injury or The LMIS website features an analysis of “hot jobs” in
death. A total of 183 accidents were reported, a decline of 12.4 per the Jamaican labour market. Hot jobs are defined as the most
cent. Of this total, 112 accidents qualified for investigation, of frequently advertised jobs based on vacancies advertised in
which 82 were investigated. There were two deaths related to the Jamaica Gleaner and the Jamaica Observer. The
on-the-job incidents, compared with four in 2008. website also includes in-depth information on occupations
most frequently advertised. Information compiled for the
LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION period January 1 – December 31, 2009 indicated that 5 165
jobs were advertised during the period, of which 2 066 were
for Professionals, Senior Officials & Technicians; 1 130 for
TABLE 21.13 Service Workers & Shop & Market Sales Workers; 1 009 for
TOP TEN HOT JOBS 2009 Elementary Occupations and 574 for Clerks. For the
Professionals group, Lecturers/Teachers and Managers
JOB TITLE NUMBER OF ADVERTISEMENTS constituted the highest number of advertised vacancies,
while among Service Workers advertised vacancies were
Babysitters/Domestic Helpers 564 mostly for Sales Representatives and Cooks/Chefs (Table
Managers 483 21.13).
Sales Representatives 436
The Electronic Labour Exchange (ELE) is an online
Lecturers/Teachers 304 system that provides effective job matching by linking
Janitors/ Handymen 229 prospective employers and job seekers and is one of the main
Bearers/Drivers/Dispatchers 213 components of the LMIS. Since the ELE began operation,
Bartenders 198 and up to the end of the year (January 31, 2002– December
Bakers/ Cooks/ Chefs 165 31, 2009), there have been 29 370 job seekers, 3 719
Maintenance Workers 141 individual employers and 450 companies registered on the
Practical Nurses 96 system. A total of 7 455 vacancies were posted. Interviews
were conducted with 6 710 job-seekers and of these, the
Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security MLSS confirmed that 2 962 were placed in jobs. In 2009, the
number of vacancies posted on the ELE declined by 51.4 per
cent to 423 compared with 2008, also the number of persons
 21.14

TABLE 21.14
LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY LEVELS BY INDUSTRY, 2005-2009 (2003 J$)
(`000)
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009p Average
I GOODS PRODUCING INDUSTRY
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 119.0 135.5 122.3 112.4 120.7 122.0
Mining, Quarrying & Refining 3 982.8 3 427.8 2 407.7 1 981.6 1 727.3 2 705.4
Manufacture 486.4 461.4 509.3 503.4 519.5 496.0
Construction & Installation 410.5 389.3 377.0 379.0 410.8 393.3

II SERVICES INDUSTRY
Electricity, Gas & Water 2 759.1 2 558.4 2 192.1 2 255.4 2 171.7 2 387.3
Wholesale & Retail Trade, Repairs
& Installation of Machinery 424.7 420.6 441.6 429.2 441.2 431.5
Hotels & Restaurants 333.9 334.9 335.6 348.3 354.0 341.3
Transport, Storage & Communications 732.0 761.2 770.6 743.3 761.4 753.7
Finance & Insurance Services 3 614.8 3 472.3 2 933.1 2 589.2 2 251.0 2 972.1
Real Estate, Renting & Business Activities 1 123.3 1 083.0 1 077.6 992.5 1038.4 1 063.0

Note: The categories here are STATIN’s official classifications used to report GDP data. The labour data were reclassified internally by STATIN
to conform to the GDP classification in order to facilitate the calculation of labour productivity by industry.
Data for "Producers of Government Services" and "Other Services" were unavailable.
p - preliminary
Source: Jamaica Productivity Centre

interviewed resulting from these job postings declined by 13.0 per
cent to 806. Consequently, there was also a decline in the number
of persons placed in jobs (by 23.5 per cent to 202).
PRODUCTIVITY12
The Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC) continued to play an
important role through its efforts to increase Jamaica’s
productivity and enhance the country’s competitiveness. The 4th
annual “National Productivity Awareness Week” (NPAW) was
hosted in November under the theme “Transformation for
Sustainable Competitive Advantage.” The week of activities
was geared towards managers and employees from the public and
private sectors, as well as secondary level students. NPAW 2009
was planned with two major objectives in mind: (i) fostering a
productivity improvement culture among Jamaicans, and (ii)
exposing private and public sector managers to practical
approaches to productivity improvement. Sessions focused
on issues such as productivity leadership, energy and
sustainability, and tools for productivity improvement at the
organizational and industry levels.
An analysis of labour productivity13 levels by industry
for the period 2005–2009 shows that the sub-industries with
the highest levels of productivity were: Mining, Quarrying
& Refining, with an average of $2.7 million of output
created per worker; Finance and Insurance Services ($3.0
million); Electricity, Gas & Water ($2.4 million); and Real
Estate, Renting & Business Services ($1.1 million) (Table
21.14).

TABLE 21.15
AGGREGATE LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY , 2005-2009 (2003 J$)

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Average

p

Unit Labour Productivity (`000) 449.9 446.5 442.8 434.0 435.1 441.7
Percentage Growth Rates -0.5 -0.8 -0.8 -2.0 0.2 -0.8

Note: Data for the sub-industries"Producers of Government Services" and "Other Services" were unavailable and therefore were not included in the
calculation.
p - preliminary

Source: Jamaica Productivity Centre

12 The categories here are STATIN’s official classifications used to report GDP data. The labour data were reclassified internally by
STATIN to conform to the GDP classification in order to facilitate the calculation of labour productivity by industry.
13 Output per worker, that is, real value added output divided by total labour force.

A review of the cumulative average annual change in labour
productivity by industry for the period 2005–2009 shows that five
sub-industries registered positive change, while productivity
declined in the remaining five. The sub-industries which recorded
the highest increases were: Construction (1.7 per cent) and Hotels
& Restaurants (1.2 per cent). Conversely, the sub-industries which
recorded the highest declines were: Mining, Quarrying &
Refining (11.2 per cent) and Finance & Insurance Services (9.1
per cent). The data also show that the average output per worker in
2009 was $435 100.00, compared with $449 900.00 in 2005
(Table 21.15). This indicates an overall decline in labour
productivity.
OUTLOOK
In 2010, the Government will begin its transformation of the
public sector, the focus of which is to create a more efficient and
effective public service which will contribute to an improvement
in the quality of service delivery. This process has implications for
the size of the public sector workforce, as downsizing may be
undertaken in some public sector entities. It is expected that
opportunities for training/retraining and access to micro financing
will be among the facilities that will be made available to workers
who may be displaced. As the Government seeks to contain the
21.15
public sector wage bill, it is also expected that the wage
freeze in the public sector will continue, in keeping with the
stated policies of the Government and the impending
agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The
Government however, has stated its intention to continue
attempts to boost employment via entrepreneurship through
a variety of policy initiatives geared at, among other things,
increasing the access to lower cost credit and training in
entrepreneurship techniques. Projected investment in the
areas of construction, creative and cultural industries as well
as hospitality, could have a positive effect on employment in
these areas.
Though the country is projected to experience economic
growth in 2010, growth is expected to be slow and is
contingent on a number of external factors pertaining to the
global economy. It is expected that the labour market will
continue to face challenges, particularly with the problems
of unemployment, reduced work hours, pay cuts, and
restrictions on pay increases. It is envisaged that the MLSS
will continue to play a critical role in conciliation, as
organizations and employees/trade unions attempt to arrive
at agreements.¢
CHAPTER 22
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
INTRODUCTION
D
ur ing the year 2009, the empha sis in ed u ca tion and
train ing was on pro mot ing access and qual ity in ed u -
ca tional deliv ery. Much effort was placed on infrastructural
development; maintaining school fee relief; providing nutritional
and educational materials support; improving quality of teacher
education; and developing policies and programmes relating to
school at ten dance and be hav iour man age ment. Measures
were instituted at all levels of the education system to improve the
quality of teaching and to promote accountability and a culture of
excellence.
With respect to quality in learning and the curriculum, the
Ministry of Education (MOE), focused on improving literacy and
numeracy. In so doing, it introduced a Competency Based
Transition Approach for students progressing from primary to the
secondary level. This approach certifies the literacy and numeracy
levels of students before they take the Grade Six Achievement
Test (GSAT) examinations, and so will ensure that those
advancing to the secondary level have mastered these basic skills.
Provision is also made for students who are not advancing to
receive remedial support through the Alternate Secondary
Education Programme (ASEP). The MOE also endorsed a new
accountability programme for literacy in which all stakeholders
Tertiary
7.2%
Post-Secondary
12.1%
Secondary
31.8%
Special
0.5%
FIGURE 22A: ENROLMENT BY EDUCATION LEVEL (3-24 YEARS), 2008/09
collaborate to help schools meet pre-determined literacy
standards. To complete the suite of measures to improve
quality, the Grade Four Literacy Test (GFLT) was
redesigned to become a national examination, and the GSAT
Examination was reviewed to address issues relating to the
curriculum and to its suitability as a placement mechanism.
The Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) and the National
Education Inspectorate (NEI), were fully established as
mechanisms to raise and regulate standards in the teaching
profession and to promote excellence and accountability in
schools. Particular attention was given to the Early
Childhood level, where the registration of Early Childhood
Institutions (ECI) continued, with schools being inspected
and permission to operate granted to over 100 schools.
Quality at the tertiary level was the thrust of a Cabinet
Submission proposing the establishment of the Jamaica
Tertiary Education Commission (J-TEC). The Commission
is to have regulatory, advisory and planning/coordination
responsibilities as the national oversight body for the tertiary
sector.
The E-Learning Jamaica project continued its
programmes to enhance the educational environment with
the provision of Information and Communication
Pre-Primary
13.8%
Primary
34.6%
 22.2

Technology (ICT) equipment and training of teachers in
approximately 165 high schools islandwide.
The priority that continued to be placed on safety and security
in schools was exemplified by the MOE's introduction of new
behaviour management and modification strategies. Of particular
importance are the Alternate Student Intervention Programme
(ASIP), a time-out initiative which caters to students with
maladaptive behaviours and a Behaviour Management Protocol
that were also developed. Additional intervention strategies
included the permanent placement of a law enforcement officer in
each school that has safety and security problems and the
establishment of Safety and Security Patrols for schools grouped
in clusters.
The MOE also improved access with the creation of 2 000
spaces by building one new school and upgrading and increasing
the number of spaces in existing schools. The Ministry introduced
a new Centre of Excellence Framework for governing all new
schools. The Belmont Academy in Westmoreland, which was
built during the year, began using this Framework.
I n Tr a i n i n g , t h e N a t i o n a l T r a i n i n g A g e n c y
(HEART/Trust/NTA) established over 30 major partnerships,
which resulted in the expansion of access to training, nationally.
One such project was the Government of Jamaica/Government of
India ICT Project designed to build ICT capacity in Jamaica in the
areas of Networking and Enterprise Software Development.
In the 2008/09 academic year, an estimated 82.8 per cent (888
798 persons) in the school-age cohort (3-24 years old) were
enrolled. The primary level accounted for 34.6 per cent of the total
(Figure 22A). The total number of students enrolled in the public
and private education system at the pre-primary, primary and
secondary levels was 717 008, with gross enrolment rates of 98.9
per cent, 99.7 per cent, and 82.5 per cent respectively. At the
tertiary level, gross enrolment was 30.8 per cent. The number of
persons trained in the category, Professional, Senior
Officials and Technicians was 14 151 (71.7 per cent female).
Available data showed that a total of 60 623 persons (55.3
per cent female) were trained as skilled and semi-skilled
personnel.
SECTION 1: FINANCING
For the financial year 2009/10, the Government of
Jamaica (GOJ) allocated 12.9 per cent of the national budget
to education. As is the norm, financing for education was
also supported with inputs from the private sector and
households, as well as community and faith-based
organizations. Household contributions to education were
made through the payment of auxiliary fees, cost sharing at
the tertiary level, and other payments for education-related
inputs at all levels. The GOJ’s input increased by 10.3 per
cent to $71.7 billion compared with the revised estimates for
2008/09. Over $67.3 billion of the government’s allocation
was for recurrent expenditure, with 83.0 per cent of these
funds earmarked for salaries and other emoluments
(Table 22.1a).
Of the overall budget for education, 33.5 per cent was
allocated to the secondary level; 31.8 per cent to the primary;
18.1 per cent to tertiary; and 3.8 per cent to early childhood.
Compared with 2008/09, there were nominal increases of
14.2 per cent to the primary level, 12.7 per cent in the
allocation to early childhood, and 12.2 per cent for
secondary education.
In FY 2008/09, the GOJ’s annual per capita expenditure
was $327 333.00 at the tertiary level; $190 579.00 for
special education; $75 584.00 at the secondary level;
$62 377.00 at the primary and $19 339.00 for early
childhood education (ECE) (Table 22.1b).

TABLE 22.1a
ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURES BY FUNCTION AND PROGRAMME
2008/09-2009/10
($' 000)

REVISED REVISED
PROGRAMME 2008/09 2009/10
RECURRENT CAPITAL TOTAL RECURRENT CAPITAL TOTAL
Central Administration 1 510 164 2 689 732 4 199 896 1 931 421 2 675 641 4 607 062
Early Childhood Education 2 145 217 261 020 2 406 237 2 410 916 299 998 2 710 914
Primary Education 19 089 858 858 710 19 948 568 22 138 551 659 591 22 798 142
Special Education 792 460 7 200 799 660 846 634 2 600 849 234
Secondary Education 21 156 269 252 800 21 409 069 23 822 604 200 120 24 022 724
Tertiary Education 12 636 400 106 224 12 742 624 12 790 553 164 716 12 955 269
Adult and Continuing Education 164 103 0 164 103 163 529 0 163 529
Common Educational Services 1 651 605 0 1 651 605 1 707 762 830 1 708 592
Library Services 885 539 30 475 916 014 836 129 25 000 861 129
Students' Nutrition 31900
TOTAL Education Budget 60 031 615 4 206 161 64 237 776 66 648 099 4 060 396 70 708 495
Youth Development Programme 718 385 3 000 721 385 701 401 81 964 783 365
Disaster Management 50 000 50 000 211 600 211 600

TOTAL MoE BUDGET 60 750 000 4 259 161 65 009 161 67 349 500 4 353 960 71 703 460

Source: Estimates of Expenditure, 2008/09

 22.3

TABLE 22.1b
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
PER CAPITA EXPENDITURE BY EDUCATIONAL LEVEL, 2006/07 - 2008/09
($ CURRENT PRICES)

LEVELS 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09

REVISED ACTUAL REVISED
ESTIMATES ESTIMATES ESTIMATES

Early Childhood:
Recognized Basic 8 609 14 628 13 690
Infant 28 489 42 254 43 232
Average Early Childhood 12 060 19 739 19 339

Primary:
Grades 1-6 of All-Age, Primary 38 688 38 012 51 236
& Junior High, and Primary 47 608 54 496 68 036
Average Primary 44 230 47 651 62 377

Special Education 92 917 147 079 190 579

Secondary:
High Schools 70 038 70 686 88 711
Technical High 66 142 72 401 94 032
Vocational/Agricultural 302 260 267 544 321 871
Grades 7-9 all of All-Age, Primary & Junior High 59 967 70 168 101 198
Average Secondary Education 53 332 64 814 75 584

Tertiary:r
University of the West Indies 482 687 603 630 705 576
University of Technology, Jamaica 137 333 135 317 171 928
Teachers' Colleges 157 978 107 342 145 737
Multidisciplinary Colleges 100 736 97 519 133 082
Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts 396 559 399 235 447 936
College of Agriculture, Science and Education 256 409 249 516 574 142
233 032 275 612 327 333

N.B: The average per capita figure for each level includes administration, supervision and other costs.
Enrolment figures for Tertiary Education are prorated because of differences between the financial year and the academic year.
r -revised
Source: Statistics Unit, Ministry of Education

ECE financing has been traditionally derived from fees and
non-governmental support. In 2009/10, the Government’s
allocation to this sector grew to $2.7 billion and included a
nutrition subsidy, a materials grant and salaries. The Ministry of
Education budget for ECE was supported by financing from the
Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), and the Culture, Health,
Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund. JSIF provided $85.5
million1 for six schools, benefiting 464 persons (55.0 per cent
female) (Box 1). CHASE supported the Early Childhood sector to
the amount of $190.3 million. A total of $20.9 million was used to
build three basic schools/resource centres; namely, the Bloomfield
Basic School, St. Agnes Basic School and the Cataboo Early
Childhood Institution. An additional $77.0 million was
spent to furnish and equip 17 Basic Schools. This included
$9.0 million expended to equip and refurbish nine Early
Childhood Resource Centres. CHASE also allocated $49.9
million in scholarships for teachers in ECE at Teacher
Colleges.
The allocation to Primary Education was $22.8 billion,
while to the Secondary level it was $24.0 billion. The GOJ
has assumed full responsibility for the tuition cost of all
secondary level students in public schools. This was in

1 JSIF contributed $85.5 million and the community $30 million making the total $115.5 million.
 22.4

Box 1: JAMAICA SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND SUPPORTED BASIC SCHOOLS

Committed
Estimated
Project
Cost Direct Beneficiaries
($ million)
Project Name Project Type Parish JSIF Community Total Female Male

Albion Basic School Construction School St. James 20.6 6.9 27.5 25 17
Call to Excellence Basic School Rehabilitation & Equipping School St. James 6 2 8 25 18
Effortville Basic School Construction School Clarendon 7.5 2.5 10 67 67
End Time Basic School Construction School St. Andrew 16 6.6 22.6 48 26
Maranatha Ministries Basic School Construction School St. Andrew 20.4 7 27.4 40 30
Newlands Basic School Expansion School St. Catherine 15 5 20 50 51
85.5 30 115.5 255 209

Source : Jamaica Social Investment Fund

addition to the other education-related expenses such as CSEC
examination fees, school feeding and provision of books. Parents
contributed to auxiliary and other developmental fees at the
secondary level.
A total of $849.2 million was expended on Special Education2
programmes, with 7.4 per cent of the total recurrent budget being
allocated and disbursed through non-government organisations
(NGOs). At the Tertiary level, $13.0 billion3 was allocated as
follows: University of the West Indies (UWI), $6.9 billion;
University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) $1.9 billion;
Community Colleges/Multi-disciplinary Colleges4, $1.9 billion;
and Teacher Training Colleges, $1.4 billion.
Capital expenditure by the GOJ in education increased by 2.2
per cent to $4.4 billion (See Table 22.1a). Of the capital budget,
31.0 per cent was allocated to multilateral and bilateral projects.
The largest proportion of the allocation supported the
GOJ/Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Primary
Education Support Programme (PESP), the GOJ/Caribbean
Development Bank (CDB) Enhancement of Basic Schools Project
and the GOJ/United States Agency for International Development
(USAID) Schools Rehabilitation Project (Figure 22B).
Financing of tertiary education is supported by the Students
Loan Bureau (SLB), which operates a revolving fund to finance
loans to qualified Jamaican students for tuition at local and foreign
based tertiary institutions approved by the MOE. A total of 9 767
applications were received in 2009, with 8 653 or 88.6 per cent
approved. During the reporting period, $1.8 billion in loans was
approved and $1.5 billion disbursed. Additionally, 1 224 students
received grants amounting to $53.3 million (Table 22.1c). The
four largest disbursements were to students at UTech, accounting
for 37.5 per cent; UWI, Mona, 27.4 per cent; Northern Caribbean
University (NCU), 18.7 per cent; and the Teachers’ Colleges, 11.6
per cent.
The Government provided approximately $25.7 billion5
to cover direct and indirect costs for public sector training.
This amount included $6.45 billion expended by HEART
Trust/NTA (Table 22.1d). Some $1.6 billion was allocated to
the Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning for Adult and
Continuing Education. The allocation for training increased
by 13.1 per cent compared with the revised estimates for
2008/09. Training activities included post-secondary,
formal and non-formal, and continuing education
programmes. The HEART Trust/NTA earned revenues of
approximately $6.43 billion from its training levy and other
income-generating activities.
Private entities such as the National Commercial Bank
(NCB) Jamaica Limited, Scotiabank Jamaica Foundation
(SJF) and the Digicel Educational Foundation (DEF)
contributed to the financing of education. Data received
from NCB Foundation and SJF showed that investments
totalling $47.3 million and $25.0 million respectively were
expended on various educational projects. Information
received from the DEF showed expenditure on education
amounting to $47.5 million.
SECTION 2: EDUCATION TRANSFORMATION
The activities of the Education Transformation Team
(ETT) were clustered in six components. The main
achievements for 2009 are outlined below:
Modernization: Drafting instructions for the
establishment of the JTC were submitted to the Chief
Parliamentary Counsel (CPC). A Licensing Framework for
teachers was developed and 26 Quality Education Circles
(QECs) were launched to provide support for their on-going
professional development. Five workshops were conducted
across the island for newly appointed Principals and a
Concept Paper on the establishment of the National College

2 Programmes in Special Education span the Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary levels.
3 This includes $75.4 million for scholarships, tuition fees and boarding grants at UWI, UTech and Teachers’ Colleges.
4 Bethlehem Teachers’ College and Moneague Multi-Disciplinary College, each includes a Teacher’s College and a Community College
5 Revised Estimates

Enhancement of Basic
Schools
16.9%
Expanding Education
Horizon Project
0.4%
Reform of Secondary
Education
8.9%
Schools Rehabilitation
Project
11.6%
Youth Development
Programme
3.7%
Youth Empowerment and
Participation Programme Early Childhood
2.4% Development Project
4.4%
FIGURE 22B: CAPITAL EXPENDITURE (MULTILATERAL/BILATERAL PROGRAMMES), 2009
for Educational Leadership6 was prepared. In addition, 20 000
teachers applied online for registration.
Critical staff for the NEI, among them 45 School Inspectors,
were recruited and trained and the operational framework for the
Inspectorate developed. The inspectorate completed pilot
inspections and reports for 10 schools. A Chief Executive Officer
was engaged for the National Education Trust (NET) and its
Articles of Incorporation finalized.
School Facilities and Infrastructure: More than 4 500 new
places were provided at the primary and secondary levels. A new
high school, Belmont Academy, was opened as a Centre of
Excellence with a new system of management developed and
implemented in an effort to ensure improved student outcomes.
Curriculum Teaching & Learning: The Competence-based
Transition Policy (from primary to secondary level) was
developed, approved and implemented. The GFLT and Grade
Four Numeracy Test (GFNT) were administered and marked as
national tests for the first time and school results were published in
the media. A new system of accountability for monitoring school
performance and a new policy for the selection of school boards
were developed and implemented by the National Council on
Education (NCE). In addition, 68 literacy specialists and 57
numeracy specialists were assigned to support poor performing
schools islandwide and a private sector foundation refurbished 12
Enrichment Centres (to augment the four centres established in
2008) for the enhancement of literacy and numeracy.
Behaviour Management: Violence and anti-social behaviour
continued to be a major problem in the system. The Ministry
increased its efforts to address the situation by establishing the
post of Dean of Discipline in 87 high schools where 70 of these
posts were filled. Additional measures included the Programme
for Alternative Student Support (PASS), the Safe Schools
Programme, and the Citizenship Education Programme. A Child
6 The National College for Educational Leadership will provide leadership training for educators
22.5
Primary Education Support
Programme
45.4%
Absenteeism in Jamaica's
Primary School
0.6%
University of Technology
Enhancement Project
5.9%
Friendly Schools Programme was launched by United
Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the
Minister of Education appointed as Child Friendly Schools
Champion for the Caribbean. The Safety and Security
Programme was expanded to involve the provision of
manuals and metal detectors to secondary schools and to
provide budgetary support for the construction and/or repair
of perimeter fences. Funds were identified for the
acquisition of time-out facilities for children with
maladaptive behaviours.
Student Support and Welfare: A comprehensive
r e v ie w o f g o v e r n me n t p o li c y o n f u n d i n g CX C
examinations, including consultation with major
stakeholders, was conducted, and a position paper finalized.
Discussions were also initiated with the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB) on grant funding for an evaluation
of the School Feeding Programme.
Other ETP Activities: The final draft of a Bill to enact
the National Parenting Support Commission (NPSC) was
received from the Chief Parliamentary Counsel. The
companion Parenting Policy was drafted and is to be
submitted to Cabinet for approval.
The Jamaica Schools Administrative Software (JSAS),
an education management information system tool, was
brought into use in 669 schools to enhance school
management and inform decision making.
 22.6

TABLE 22.1c
LOANS/GRANTS DISBURSED BY STUDENT LOAN BUREAU, 2009

Institution Type Gender Number of Loans Loan ($) Grant ($)

Community Colleges Male 42 5 290 802 150 000

Female 239 39 010 909 950 000
Northern Caribbean University Male 196 51 482 150 1 350 000
Female 1 032 285 208 212 8 650 000
Teachers' Colleges Male 241 41 298 696 1 225 000
Female 1 043 166 873 242 6 250 000
University of Technology, Jamaica Male 1 104 263 393 921 5 650 000
Female 1 792 409 296 042 12 100 000
UWI, Foreign Based * Male 13 135 522 0.00
Female 43 636 002 100 000
University of the West Indies Male 678 137 395 640 4 050 000

Other (Public) Male 79 16 935 498 300 000

Female 52 13 761 300 150 000
Private Universities Male 13 2 232 231 0.00
Female 52 8 757 687 50 000

Total (Male) 2 366 518 164 460 12 725 000

Total (Female) 6 256 1 278 028 666 40 550 000

TOTAL 8 622** 1 796 193 126 53 275 000

* UWI Foreign Based - University of the West Indies Campuses in St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, Cave Hill, Barbados and the Bahamas.
** An additional 31 persons not identified by sex or instutions received loans.

Source: Student Loan Bureau

SECTION 3: Early Childhood to Secondary Level
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Early Childhood Care and Development Programmes were
offered in 402 Recognized Day Care Centres7 for children 0-3
years; 2 270 Basic/Infant Schools/Departments, and Kindergarten
Departments of preparatory schools for children 3-5 years; and
five Special Education institutions. Available data indicate that a
total of 122 504 students in the 3-5 age cohort were enrolled (Table
22.2). Data from the MOE Early Childhood Unit estimate that an
additional 12.1 per cent or 14 823 students were enrolled in private
kindergarten/preparatory schools. The consistently high
enrolment rate noted in previous years was sustained in 2009 with
a gross enrolment rate8 of 98.9 per cent: 98.7 per cent boys and
99.4 per cent girls registered9. The gender distribution at this level
was almost equal with boys accounting for 50.3 per cent of the
total. The ECE level was served by 6 678 teachers10, with average
teacher to pupil ratio being 1:18, and the average daily attendance
rate 76.6 per cent in Infant Schools/Departments and 69.1
per cent for Recognized Basic Schools.
The main achievements in ECE included the following:
– Phased implementation of the new learner-centred
Early Childhood Development (ECD) Curriculum
continued. Over 3 500 ECD teachers/practitioners
were trained in the use of the section of the curricu-
lum for four year olds, and over 3 440 sets of the
Birth to Three Curriculum were disseminated to
ECIs and institutions providing training in ECD.
– Standards for the Operation, Management and Ad-
ministration were approved and distributed to all
ECIs.
– The first draft of the Child Development Therapy
Modules was completed and reviewed by the UWI
Faculty of Medical Sciences.

7 These institutions cater to 9 458 students (51.0 per cent girls) and are served by 1 384 caregivers.
8 The gross enrolment rate (GER) is the ratio of the number of children enrolled at a given level (e.g. in primary school), whatever
their age, to the number in the age range officially corresponding to that level (e.g. ages 6 to 11). The GER is expressed as a
percentage. It can exceed 100 per cent because of early or, more frequently, delayed enrolment, and grade repetition, which result in
children other than those of the official age(s) being enrolled at a given level.
9 Based on data from the Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions (JSLC) 2008
10 Total does not include teachers in private preparatory schools.
 22.7

TABLE 22.1d
FINANCING FOR TRAINING PROGRAMMES, 2008/09 - 2009/10
($ '000)
2008/09 2009/10
Revised Revised
Government Allocations Estimates Estimates

Technical and Vocational Education (MoE) 2 042.1 2 197.5

Tertiary Education 11 067.7 11 047.3
Teacher Education & Training 1 241.9 1 421.6
In-service Training (MoE) 6.7 7.6

Youth Development Services (Training)a 718.4 701.4

Training (Ministry of Health) 310.7 299.3
Community Development Projects (SDC) 523 563.7
General Training and Development for the Public Service 100 82.6
(MOFPS)
Fire Brigade 30 39.6

Tourism Product Development Companyb 111.4 109

Management Institute for National Development 115.1 121.8
Police Academy 1 159.1 2 193
Jamaica Defence Force (Military Training) 87.5 167.4
Caribbean Maritime Institute (Min. of Transp. & Works) 113.4 106.9
Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce 4.9 4.7
Ministry of Transport and Works 6.4 5.9
Post and Telecommunications Services 8.2 12.5
Department of Correctional Services 75.7 74.5
Agriculture (RADA) 27.4 29.6
Justice Training Institute 50.1 32.5
In-service Training (MOFP) 20.8 25.2
In-service Training (MLSS) 7.4 8.6
Sub-Total 17 827.9 19 252.2

HEART Trust/National Training Agencyc 4 897 6 446.2

TOTAL 22 724.9 25 698.4

a - Grants to the National Youth Service Programme and the Jamaica 4H Clubs ( Ministry of Agriculture)
b - Grants allocated for the training of persons in the Tourism sector
c - Expenditure by HEART Trust/NTA

Source: Human Employment and Resource Training Trust/National Training Agency and Estimates of Expenditures, 2007/08

– Health and Safety requirements for the ECI Training
Programme were developed and training implemented.
– A Money Management Guide for ECIs was developed
and all EC education officers, as well as inspectors and
over 1 000 ECI principals and bursars were trained.
– A draft Behaviour Management Plan for ECIs was devel-
oped as a major outcome of the Early Childhood Commis-
sion (ECC) 4th Annual Conference.
– Policy, Standards and Legislation Officers were appraised
and trained in the guidelines for operation, management
and administration of early childhood institutions includ-
ing minimum standards, and registration requirements.
– Registration: Approximately 89.0 per cent of 2 747 identi-
fied early childhood institutions applied for registration
with the ECC. Of this number, 1 467 or 53.0 per cent had
been inspected and ‘Permits to Operate’ were issued to
131 (4.8 per cent).
– Training of Education Officers of Day Care Units and
Early Childhood continued.
Officers received training in professionalism and in
other areas at the annual ECC Conference
There was continuous monthly in-service train-
ing for Basic School Teachers
1 000 National Youth Service workers were
trained and placed in Early Childhood Institu-
tions and in the Roving Caregivers Programme.
– Management/Administrative Strengthening
Over 3 007 teachers received pre-trained teacher
status and salary commensurate with 69.8 per
cent of salary of pre-trained teachers in primary
schools.
Approximately 104 780 children benefited from
nutrition subsidies, which supported a daily hot
meal.
The Early Childhood Fund assisted 454 teachers
to gain diplomas in Early Childhood Education.
PACE Canada continued to donate cash awards
and teach ing/learn ing ma te ri als to Ba sic
Schools in selected parishes.
– Effective Parenting Education and Support: A con-
sultant was engaged to develop a Parenting Educa-
 22.8

TABLE 22.2
ENROLMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION BY SCHOOL TYPE AND YEAR, 2004/05 - 2008/09

Infant Infant Basic School

YEAR School Department Recognized Unrecognized TOTAL
No. Enrolment No. Enrolment No. Enrolment No. Enrolment

2004/05 29 8 368 82 5 637 1 859 111 721 167 9 032 134 758
2005/06 29 8 263 97 5 395 1 871 111 978 140 5 759 131 395
2006/07 30 7 974 98 5 417 1 708 84 782 147 6 048 113 172
2007/08 31 7 827 84 5 535 1 792 97 688 140 n.a 111 050
2008/09 31 7 909 98 5 325 1 839 104 780 116 4 490 122 504

n.a.- Not Available

Note : Approximately 14 823 students (12.1 per cent) were enrolled in private preparatory schools

Source: Ministry of Education Early Childhood Unit

tion Strategy for Birth to Three and Four to Six Age co-
horts.
– Effective Preventative Health Care for Children 0-6
years: The content and structure of the Child Health and
Development Passport was approved by the ECC and
Ministry of Health in June 2009
A draft Infant and Young Child Feeding Policy was
submitted by the ECC to the Ministry of Health for en-
dorsement.
The GOJ/CDB Enhancement of Basic Schools Project was
extended to December 2011. The objectives of this project
include: the creation of model learning environments at the
pre-primary level; institutional strengthening; improvement in the
quality of teaching and learning; and an increase in parent and
public awareness of the developmental and learning needs of
young children.
Development of Model Learning Environments: Land was
acquired for the construction of new Basic Schools and Teacher
Resource Centres (TRCs). Two Practising schools, four Basic
Schools and six TRCs were renovated, and construction began on
one Basic School and one TRC. Furniture, equipment,
toys/manipulatives and other instructional materials were
procured and distributed to all the Schools and TRCs.
Institutional Strengthening: 34 workshops for National
Consultations and Training of Trainers were held. An independent
evaluation of the project was completed and 4 000 copies of new
ECD Policies and Standards for ECI reproduced.
The Expanding Educational Horizon (EEH) Project continued
work to develop the Jamaica Schools Administrative Software
(JSAS), an electronic data collection tool, into a web-based
system that has been endorsed by the MOE as the management
software of choice for all Jamaican public schools.
Qualitative improvements: Approximately 960 ECE
workers were trained for Levels I and II certification and
student manuals for the certification training reproduced.
Twenty workshops related to new learning environments
were conducted for 700 principals and teachers, and 144
craftsmen and producers of learning materials. In addition,
24 workshops on the new learning environment were held
for parents and community leaders.
PRIMARY EDUCATION11
Primary school enrolment was 307 861, a decline of 2.3
per cent compared with 2007/08 (Table 22.3). Enrolment in
792 public schools was 271 722 and an estimated 36 139 or
13.3 per cent12 were enrolled in 204 private schools.
Preliminary data reported in the JSLC 2008 indicate that the
gross enrolment rate for the primary level at 99.7 per cent,
with 99.5 per cent of boys in the primary age cohort and 99.9
per cent of girls registered.13 Over the past five years
enrolment rates at the Primary level have been consistently
high growing, from 95.9 per cent in 2004/05 to full
enrolment in 2009. In the public school system, males
accounted for 51.1 per cent of the student population.
Attendance data for 2008/09 were unavailable for analysis;
however, data for 2007/08 indicated that attendance in
public Primary Schools averaged 83.1 per cent compared
with 84.8 per cent in 2006/07. This is relatively close to the
target standard of 85.0 per cent established by the MoE.
Teachers in the Public Sector primary institutions
numbered 10 734 (compared with 10 741 in the 2007/08
school year). Approximately 91.0 per cent of teachers at this
level were trained, mirroring the achievement in 2007/08.
The quality of teaching in the education system has
improved over the past five years with the percentage of
trained graduates climbing from 20.9 per cent (2 147
teachers) in 2005 to 30.1 per cent (3 232 teachers) in 2009.

11 Primary Education relates to children aged 6-11 in Grades 1-6 of Primary, Primary & Junior High, and All-Age Schools, as well as in
private preparatory institutions.
12 Based on estimates in the Jamaica Survey of Living Condition (JSLC) 2008
13 The Net Enrolment Rate was 89.8 per cent: Boys, 91.0 per cent and Girls, 88.6 per cent.
 22.9

TABLE 22.3
PRIMARY LEVEL STUDENT ENROLMENT BY TYPE OF SCHOOL, 2006/07- 2008/09
2006/07 2007/08 2008/09
Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
Primary (Grade 1-6) 93 891 95 713 192 604 101 923 99 416 201 339 100 629 98 470 199 099
All Age (Grades 1-6) 27 035 24 392 51 428 19 748 17 754 37 502 18 901 16 906 35 807
Prim & Junior High (Grades 1-6) 21 850 19 852 41 702 20 558 18 739 39 297 19 328 17 488 36 816
Sub Total 145 777 139 957 285 734 142 229 135 909 278 138 138 858 132 864 271 722

Preparatorya 12 391 11 896 24 287 18 916 18 075 36 992 18 468 17 671 36 139
Total 158 168 151 853 310 021 161 145 153 984 315 130 157 326 150 535 307 861

a - Estimated, Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions 2006 - 2008

Source: Statistics Section , Ministry of Education

The teaching profession was dominated by females at the primary
level where they accounted for 89.4 per cent of the total. Available
data indicate that 85.8 per cent of the schools were operating with
teacher: pupil ratios below 1:35. Only 12.0 per cent had a ratio of
1:36 or more. The average teacher to pupil ratio was 1:2914
compared to 1:35 in 2004/05.
Curriculum Development
The MOE conducted an external review of the curriculum for
the upper primary level, Grades 4 – 6, to determine the following:
– articulation between Grades 4-6 and Grades 7-9
– the appropriateness of content for each grade level
– gaps and/or weaknesses in methodology and assessment
In addition, the Minister of Education commissioned a review
of the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) with the intent of
ensuring alignment between the curriculum at Grades 4–6 and that
for Grades 7–9. The information garnered will inform the revision
of both curricula.
Academic Achievement
The Grade One Individual Learning Profile was used to
assess students’ proficiency on six sub-tests. The results for the
profile are pending.
The Grade Four Literacy and Numeracy Tests15
The schedule for national assessment at Grade Four level was
revised. The Literacy and Numeracy Tests (GFLT and GFNT)
were offered for the first time in June with a supplemental
examination for students with non-mastery status in December.
Results for the supplemental examination taken in December are
pending. In June 2009, some 46 643 students sat the literacy
component and 46 588 students the numeracy component.
Approximately 70.1 per cent of the students achieved ‘mastery’
for the Literacy Test and 45.4 per cent for the Numeracy Test. In
terms of overall mastery, data disaggregation by gender showed
that girls outperformed boys with 81.3 per cent achieving mastery
compared to 59.1 per cent for boys at the GFLT; and 54.7 per cent
of girls achieving mastery compared with 36.3 per cent for
boys in the GFNT.
The Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) facilitates
the placement and continued development of students at the
secondary level. In 2009, a total of 49 648 students sat the
examination, representing 90.9 per cent of the Grade Six
cohort. The mean percentage scores were Mathematics,
53.0 (55.0 in 2008); Language Arts, 57.0 (53.0 in 2008);
Social Studies, 53.0 (56.0 in 2008); Science, 53.0 (56.0 in
2008); and Composition, 58.3 (same as in 2008). Consistent
with previous years, girls outperformed boys in all subject
areas.
Major Support Programmes
The main projects and programmes supporting primary
education were the GOJ/(IDB) Primary Education Support
Programme (PESP), the GOJ/USAID Expanding
Educational Horizon Project and the MOE Primary School
Textbook Programme.
GOJ/IADB Primary Education Support Project
(PESP) (2000-2010) had been extended for an additional
two years to allow for the completion of outstanding civil
works. All 12 project schools were completed and furniture
delivered to seven schools; namely, Bromley, Gordon Town,
Mayfield, Sheffield, Chester Castle, Lucea and Christiana.
The GOJ/USAID Expanding Educational Horizon
(EEH) Project (2006-2009) focused on developing and
improving literacy and numeracy skills among students in
71 primary schools and six NGO operated initiatives. The
project targeted children 6-12 years of age through formal,
school-based interventions and through non-governmental
organization (NGO) based non-formal interventions
targeting at-risk children 10-18 years. The components of
the EEH Project are Literacy, Educational Technology,
School Management (JSAS), Stakeholder Support
(Private/Public Sector), Numeracy, Gender and Public
Awareness.
JSAS 7.0 was piloted in 2008 and is expected to be rolled
out in all institutions under the ETP. One feature of the JSAS

14 The Teacher to pupil ratio excludes teachers on leave and administrators.

15 The Grade Four Literacy Test was redesigned to include a Numeracy Test and the date for the examination rescheduled from May
and August to June and December of each year.
 22.10

TABLE 22.4
SECONDARY LEVEL STUDENT ENROLMENT BY SCHOOL TYPE, 2006/07 - 2008/09

2006/07 2007/8 2008/09

Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
All Age (Grades 7-10) 7 034 3 488 10 522 6 615 3 201 9 816 6 228 2 665 8 893
Junior High/Prim. & Junior High 14 042 9 204 23 246 13 788 9 132 22 920 13 690 8 284 21 974
Secondary High 91 413 101 838 193 251 93 328 103 805 197 133 96 385 103 160 199 545
Technical High 10 017 9 992 20 009 10 477 10 147 20 624 10 539 10 526 21 065
Vocational /Agricultural High 146 120 266 203 141 344 196 151 347
Sub Total 122 652 124 642 247 294 124 411 126 426 250 837 127 038 124 786 251 824

Private Secondary Higha 4 906 4 985 9 891 5 847 5 942 11 789 7 622 7 487 15 109
TOTAL 127 558 129 627 257 185 130 258 132 368 262 626 134 660 132 273 266 933

a - Estimated Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions 2006-2008

Source: Statistics Section , Ministry of Education

7.0 software is its capability to monitor classroom behaviour with
special features for guidance counsellors.
Another focus of the EEH Project was an in-service training
programme. Some 518 teachers and educators were trained in
student-centred approaches and 157 administrators and officials
in school management functions, thereby impacting 26 623
learners. USAID Jamaica also collaborated with the GOJ and the
private sector to host a conference of policy makers, educators,
academics, and politicians to address the need for education
reform in Jamaica, particularly with regard to educational
accountability and standards.
The Primary Textbook Programme16 provides students at
Grades 1-3 with foundation texts and support materials including
Literacy 1-2-3 materials for core subjects, Language Arts,
Science, Mathematics and Social Studies. Other support materials
included activity books, charts, CDs, videos and anthologies. The
activity books, which are supplied annually, are given to students.
Students in Grades 4-6 were provided with textbooks for the four
core subjects. Approximately 271 722 students across 792 schools
islandwide benefitted from the programme, at a cost of $421.1
million.
SECONDARY EDUCATION17
The number of students enrolled in secondary institutions was
266 933, a 1.6 per cent increase compared with 2007/08 (Table
22.4). This total includes an estimated 15 109 students were
enrolled in private secondary schools. According to the MOE, the
overall gross enrolment rate for Grades 7-11 was 101.7 per cent18,
with 100.4 per cent for males and 103.0 per cent for females. This
accomplishment is in keeping with the GOJ’s target for universal
enrolment at the secondary level. The comparative gross
enrolment rate in 2004/05 was 91.5 per cent.
The net enrolment rate19 in Grades 7-9 was 87.0 per
cent20 (85.1 per cent for males, 89.0 per cent for females).
For Grades 10-11 the rate was 68.4 per cent. Overall net
enrolment rate for Grades 7-11 was 79.8 per cent: females,
82.8 per cent, and males, 77.0 per cent. A greater number of
boys were enrolled, in that females accounted for 49.6 per
cent of student enrolment. (Figure 22C). In the 12-18 age
group, 48.4 per cent were females.
Attendance data for 2008/09 were not available for analysis.
However, for 2007/08 the MOE estimated the average daily
attendance at secondary level at 82.6 per cent. The average
daily attendance estimated for girls was 84.7 per cent and for
boys, 80.4 per cent.
There were 13 589 teachers employed in the 409 public
schools offering secondary level education, an increase of
2.5 per cent compared with 2007/08 (Table 22.5). Among
these teachers, 80.5 per cent were trained; 42.9 per cent were
college trained teachers/instructors; and 37.6 per cent were
trained university graduates. The percentage of trained
teachers at the secondary level was below the national data
which showed that 86.0 per cent of all teachers were trained
(Figure 22D). The quality of teachers in secondary schools
has improved as it relates to trained university graduates.
This group had a representation of 27.2 per cent in 2005
compared to 37.6 per cent in 2009. The goal of the MOE is to
have all teachers certified at this level by 2015. The average
teacher to pupil ratio was 1:1921. The pupil-teacher ratio for
the secondary level varied according to school type, ranging

16 These books are provided free of cost to students

17 Secondary education is offered in All-Age and Primary & Junior High schools (Grade 7-9); Secondary, Technical High and
Vocational High schools and Preparatory & Secondary Schools (Grade 7 – 11)
18 The gross enrolment rate (GER) is the ratio of the number of children enrolled at a given level (e.g. in secondary school), whatever
their age, to the number in the age range officially corresponding to that level (e.g. ages 12 to 18). The GER is expressed as a
percentage. It can exceed 100 per cent because of early or, more frequently, delayed enrolment, and grade repetition, which result in
children other than those of the official age(s) being enrolled at a given level.
19 The Net Enrolment Ratio (NER) only takes into account enrolled children who belong to the official age range (e.g. 6- 11-year-olds
enrolled in primary school), regardless of whether younger or older children are also enrolled; thus it cannot exceed 100 per cent.
20 MOE data
21 Teachers on leave and administrators are excluded for the computation.

180000
160000
140000
120000
Number
100000
80000
60000
40000
20000
0
Infant
Male
FIGURE 22C: ENROLMENT BY GENDER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY
LEVEL SCHOOLS, 2009
from a low of 1:07 for Vocational/Agricultural Schools to 1:23 for
All-Age Schools. Females accounted for 69.9 per cent of the total
number of teachers employed at this level of the education system.
Academic Achievement
Terminal Examinations administered at the secondary level
include the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level
Competence (CCSLC), the Caribbean Secondary Education
Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency
Examination (CAPE).
CCSLC Examinations
A total of 12 589 candidates sat the CCSLC Examinations in
six subjects: English, Mathematics, French, Integrated Science,
Social Studies and Spanish. The percentage of Jamaicans
achieving “Mastery” and deemed “Competent” varied according
to subjects. In English the overall percentage achieving these two
categories was 48.4 per cent; for Mathematics, 36.9 per cent;
French, 52.6 per cent; Integrated Science, 46.0 per cent; Social
Studies, 55.4 per cent and Spanish, 36.0 per cent. The performance
of Jamaicans for Mathematics and English was below the
Caribbean regional averages which were 60.3 per cent and 74.3
per cent, respectively. Overall, the performance of Jamaicans in all
subjects was below the regional averages.
CSEC Examinations
A total of 33 718 public school candidates (57.8 per cent
female) registered to sit the CSEC Examination administered by
the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). These represented
82.0 per cent of the 2008/09 Grade 11 cohort (41 248 students).
The largest increases in the numbers sitting these examinations
22 CXC discontinued its offering of Typewriting and students have opted to enter for the subject Electronic Document Preparation and
Management.
23 In 2007/08 it was also 19.0 per cent of the entries or 15.5 per cent of the cohort
22.11
Primary Secondary
Level
Female
were in two subjects: Physical Education and Sports (34.5
per cent) and Electronic Document Preparation and
Management22 (27.7 per cent). All students in Grade 11 are
expected to sit English Language and Mathematics.
However, due to school-based screening mechanisms only
56.3 per cent sat English Language and 48.5 per cent sat
Mathematics. Students sitting four or fewer subjects
accounted for 41.9 per cent.
Students’ Performance
Of the 234 557 subject entries in the CSEC
examinations, a total of 151 836 or 64.7 per cent attained
grades I-III: approximately 11.3 per cent were awarded
Grade I; 24.0 per cent Grade II; and 29.4 per cent Grade III.
The percentage of students who failed to achieve the passing
Grade III in any subject was 16.2 per cent of entries and 12.8
per cent of the Grade 11 cohort.23 Approximately 54.8 per
cent of the 33 718 students who sat the CSEC examination
passed three or fewer subjects. At the top end in
performance, there was an increase in the percentage of
students sitting and passing eight or more subjects, moving
to 11.5 per cent from 10.5 in 2008.
The technical and vocational subjects recorded the
highest overall average with 80.2 per cent of the entries
attaining Grades I-III. In 11 of the 15 technical/vocational
subjects candidates achieved passing grades in 70.0 per cent
of the subject entries sat. The highest average pass rates were
recorded in Physical Education & Sports (92.3 per cent), and
Agricultural Science (Double Award) (91.1 per cent) and
Electronic Document Preparation and Management (87.6
per cent). Performance in Information Technology has been
 22.12

TABLE 22.5
TEACHERS EMPLOYED IN PUBLIC SECTOR SCHOOLS BY TYPE OF SCHOOL AND QUALIFICATION,
2007/08 - 2008/09
2007/08 2008/09

TRAINED PRE-TRAINED TRAINED PRE-TRAINED

Pre- Pre-
Trained Trained
Trained Pre- Tertiary Un- Trained Pre- Tertiary Un-
Trained Teacher/ Trained Level Trained Trained Teacher/ Trained Level Trained
SCHOOL TYPE Graduate Instructor Graduate Graduate Teacher TOTAL Graduate Instructor Graduate Graduate Teacher TOTAL

Infant School/Departments 150 431 8 3 38 630 197 428 9 6 50 690

SUBTOTAL 150 431 8 3 38 630 197 428 9 6 50 690
Grades 1-6
Primary 1 943 4 637 130 82 445 7 237 2 398 4 782 136 91 513 7 920
All-Age 490 1 405 27 29 119 2 070 381 908 17 19 84 1 409
Primary and Junior High 379 954 18 10 73 1 434 453 841 16 16 79 1 405
SUBTOTAL 2 812 6 996 175 121 637 10 741 3 232 6 531 169 126 676 10 734
Grades 7-9
All-Age 218 367 22 19 31 657 247 325 27 17 44 660
Primary and Junior High 456 723 48 47 78 1 352 518 680 40 44 79 1 361
Secondary High 3 816 4 374 900 504 520 10 114 3 935 4 295 977 497 660 10 364
Technical High 377 503 93 65 62 1 100 404 516 103 65 82 1 170

Vocational/Agricultural 12 12 3 4 1 32 12 12 3 6 1 34
(Grades 12-13)

SUBTOTAL 4 879 5 979 1 066 639 692 13 255 5 116 5 828 1 150 629 866 13 589

TOTAL 7 841 13 406 1 249 763 1 367 24 626 8 545 12 787 1 328 761 1 592 25 013

Note: Trained Graduates - University Trained Teacher with Teaching Diploma; Trained Teacher/Instructor- College Trained Teacher/Instructor;
Pre-trained Graduate - University Graduate without Teaching Diploma; Pre-Trained Tertiary Level Graduates -Tertiary Level without Teaching Diploma;
Un-Trained Teacher- Teacher with secondary certification without Teaching Diploma.
Source - Ministry of Education

improving, moving from 58.4 per cent in 2006 to 85.4 per cent in
2009.
Performance in the four business-related subjects averaged
75.4 per cent. Principles of Business had the highest pass rate of
83.1 per cent, followed by Office Procedures with 81.6 per cent
(Table 22.6).
The average pass rate for subjects in the Arts and Language
subject group was 66.8 per cent (60.1 per cent, 2008). There was
improvement in the performance in English Language with a pass
rate of 62.8 per cent compared with 54.4 per cent in 2008 (Table
22.6). Performance in Religious Education was highest with an
average of 78.6 per cent passes.
The average pass rate for the Sciences improved to 62.1 per
cent from 59.3 per cent in 2006. Performance in the Sciences has
been improving moving from 52.8 per cent in 2005. The subject
with highest performance in this group was Integrated Sciences,
which had a pass rate of 82.9 per cent compared with 74.5 per cent
in 2008. There was a marginal decline of 2.1 percentage points to
40.9 per cent in the pass rate in Mathematics compared with the
previous year.
Performance by School Type in Mathematics and
English Language
Overall, the performance in English Language improved
relative to 2008, with 61.4 per cent in all school types
passing compared to 53.3 per cent in 2008. Performance in
Mathematics declined to 39.5 per cent from 41.3 per cent in
2008. (Table 22.7)
Qualification for Tertiary Level Institutions
The basic requirement for entry to tertiary institutions is
five CSEC subjects including English Language and
Mathematics. Those students gaining five or more subjects
inclusive of both English Language and Mathematics was
6 208 (5 866 in 2008), or 18.4 per cent. The number of
students achieving five or more subjects including English
Language but not Mathematics was 4 004, and those with
Mathematics but not English Language was 665. Of the
32 568 public secondary school candidates who sat the
CSEC in June 2009, approximately 11 702 or 35.9 per cent
obtained five or more subjects24. This was a 5.4 per cent
increase in the number of students who achieved the same
status in the previous academic year. The number of
qualified students constituted approximately 28.4 per cent
of the Grade 11 cohort.

24 The comparable data for 2005 showed that 7 901 or 26.0 per cent of candidates met the basic requirements for tertiary education.

Pre-trained Tertiary
Un-trained Teacher
Level Graduate
6%
3%
Pre-trained Graduate
5%
Trained
Teacher/Instructor
52%
FIGURE 22D: DISTRIBUTION OF TEACHERS BY QUALIFICATION, 2009
Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE)
CAPE is the terminal examinations for high school students in
Grades 12 and 13 and at Community Colleges, and is offered in 46
subject modules at two levels (Units I and II). Jamaican candidates
continued to excel at the CAPE examinations. In 23 of the 46 units
examined, over 90.0 per cent of the entries achieved Grades I –V,
which is the required standard for matriculation to university. The
best performances were in Arts and Design in Units I and II,
Geography Unit I, Sociology Unit II, Caribbean Studies Unit I and
Food and Nutrition Unit II.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Special Education curriculum was provided to a
population of 4 401 students in two types of programmes: Formal
School-based Programmes and Home/Community-Based
Programmes. (Table 22.8) The combined teacher population of
both programmes was 424 and they were supported by 208
Teachers’ Aides and Community Rehabilitation Workers.
Attendance stood at 90.0 per cent in the formal school programme.
These schools include one School for the Blind, 12 Schools for the
Intellectually Challenged, three public main schools for the deaf
with four satellites, four private schools for the deaf, seven units
attached to host public schools, and one private school for autistic
children.
Non-Government Organizations/Community-Based
Programmes are run by voluntary organizations with
government financial support. This assistance provides for the
operation and supervision of educational programmes. There are
18 NGOs providing Special Education programmes across the
island.
25 Special needs programme for boys
22.13
Trained Graduate
34%
Developments in 2009
Students at Alpha Boys25, Lister Mair Gilby High School
for the Deaf and the Salvation Army School for the Blind &
Visually Impaired, continued to perform well at academic
and vocational programmes. Students at these institutions
continued to do well at CSEC, gaining passes in the
following subjects: Principle of Accounts, Mathematics,
Information Technology, Social Studies and Visual Arts.
Students who sat CAPE Level I and Level II subjects were
also successful in Sociology and Caribbean Studies (Level I)
and Caribbean Studies, Law, Literature, Management of
Business, Sociology and Communication Studies (Level II).
Four students from Special Education programmes were
accepted at the University of West Indies and two at the Mico
University College based on their CAPE results.
The Salvation Army School for the Blind, as well as
five other schools that offer Special Education programmes
were reclassified to reflect secondary offerings, thereby
enabling secondary age students to benefit from school fee
support as obtained in regular secondary schools.
Training was conducted for 398 teachers, 600 National
Youth Service (NYS) volunteers, and 105 parents to
sensitize them about issues relating to special education. The
Braille and Large Print Programme continued to reproduce
national examination scripts, primary school text books and
the Children’s Own Newspaper for the visually impaired.
There are 22 Resource Rooms designed to assist children
who are under-achieving. To augment these facilities, 12
Enrichment Centres which cater to the needs of students who
are under achievers or who operate in the high achievers
category were established across the island.
 22.14

TABLE 22.6
PERFORMANCE OF JAMAICAN SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS AT THE
GENERAL AND TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY LEVELS,
CARIBBEAN EXAMINATION COUNCIL, 2006-2009
SUBJECTS Number of Students Sitting % Attaining Grades I-IIIa (Percentage)

2006 2007 2008 2009 2006 2007 2008 2009

Arts/Language
English A (English Language) 22 282 23 413 22 182 23 214 50.1 51.6 54.4 62.8
Social Studies 12 622 14 998 13 717 14 250 72.0 72.1 61.0 75.7
Caribbean History 5 368 5 512 5 149 4 976 71.1 69.2 69.3 63.6
English B (English Literature) 7 193 6 991 6 779 6 692 46.6 67.4 52.3 59.1
French 802 736 715 721 78.8 78.2 69.0 68.7
Spanish 3 628 4 067 3 761 3 970 71.6 67.9 72.4 73.0
Religious Education 2 512 2 977 2 772 2 962 78.3 78.9 78.8 78.6
Geography 3 903 4 029 3 798 3 841 52.9 69.2 64.5 60.5
Music 85 165 146 139 43.5 66.3 56.2 15.8

Sciences
Biology 4 697 4 718 4 420 4 557 72.8 71.9 76.4 78.4
Human & Social Biology 4 839 7 385 6 754 7 789 43.3 47.8 65.1 74.9
Chemistry 3 762 4 229 3 949 4 175 60.7 60.9 65.8 76.9
Physics 3 306 3 834 3 584 4 041 52.1 48.8 77.7 75.2
Integrated Science 6 057 6 694 5 801 6 363 67.6 64.9 74.5 82.9
Mathematics 19 241 19 575 18 204 19 990 35.7 35.3 43.0 40.9

Technical/Vocational
Agricultural Science (Animal Science) 828 2 255 2 052 2 079 79.0 54.5 85.2 87.3
Agricultural Science (Double Award) 338 351 327 336 85.8 91.2 86.3 91.1
Agricultural Science (Crops & Soils) 925 n/a n/a n/a 75.9 n/a n/a n/a
Visual Arts 1 766 2 195 1 844 1 952 68.3 73.9 71.7 73.4

Building Technology (Construction) 441 671 600 692 79.1 70.2 87.8 79.0
Building Technology (Woods) 778 916 768 830 55.5 56.6 50.1 66.4
Clothing & Textiles 1 265 1 446 1 309 1 380 83.0 79.6 77.1 80.6
Electrical & Electronic Technology 1 754 1 872 1 661 1 966 39.1 66.7 63.2 46.1
Elec Doc.Prep. & Mgmt. 1 819 2 613 2 295 2 931 94.6 92.9 91.8 87.6
Food & Nutrition 3 878 4 448 4 120 4 471 83.3 87.2 83.4 86.9
Home Management 2 799 3 192 2 901 3 309 87.5 87.8 82.0 85.4
Information Technology 7 466 10 192 8 732 9 923 58.4 72.4 78.6 85.4
Mech. Eng. Technology 856 1 049 927 1 038 46.3 51.2 60.5 57.6
Phys. Education & Sports 408 1 117 1 024 1 377 93.1 91.4 94.8 92.3
Technical Drawing 2 669 3 346 2 837 2 998 65.5 62.0 62.2 67.8
Theatre Arts 226 341 304 335 62.4 81.1 80.1 77.0

Business
Office Procedures 4 011 4 379 4 190 4 576 86.8 81.0 80.2 81.6
Principles of Accounts 6 813 7 043 6 383 6 905 70.5 69.3 70.1 63.4
Principles of Business 7 993 8 019 7 411 8 077 67.7 75.7 81.8 83.1
Typewriting 56 24 6 n/a 48.2 12.5 0.0 n/a
Economics n/a 378 516 605 n/a 53.2 68.9 63.8

a - Expressed as a percentage of those sitting

n/a - not available (subject no longer offered)

Source: Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Office, Jamaica

EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAMMES AND
SERVICES
This section highlights local and internationally funded
programmes and services, which support the education system.
The Reform of Secondary Education Project - Phase
II (ROSE II) (2002-2009)
The ROSE II project ended in September 2009. During
the review period, access was expanded to upper secondary
education through the expansion of three existing schools
and public financing of student places in independent
schools.
 22.15

TABLE 22.7
JAMAICAN STUDENT PERFORMANCE IN THE CARIBBEAN EXAMINATION COUNCIL
CSEC EXAMINATIONS, ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND MATHEMATICS,
BY SCHOOL TYPE , 2009
English Language Mathematics

2007 2008 2009 2007 2008 2009

Secondary High Schoolsa
Eligible Cohort 35 781 35 560 36 468 35 781 35 560 36 468
Entries 20 354 20 524 20 816 17 141 17 409 18 212
Awards 10 780 11 425 13 264 6 171 7 477 7 547
Per cent Passing 53.0 55.7 63.7 36.0 42.9 41.4

Technical High Schools

Eligible Cohort 4 842 5 130 4 780 4 842 5 130 4 780
Entries 2 857 2 889 2 956 2 350 2 166 2 345
Awards 926 1 045 1 324 465 609 567
Per cent Passing 32.4 36.2 44.8 19.8 28.1 24.2

All Schools
Eligible Cohort 40 623 40 690 41 248 40 623 40 690 41 248
Entries 23 211 23 413 23 772 19 491 19 575 20 557
Awards 11 706 12 470 14 588 6 636 8 086 8 114
Per cent Passing 50.4 53.3 61.4 34.0 41.3 39.5

a - The category Secondary High School included Upgraded High schools. In previous years these two categories were disaggregated

Source: National Council on Education

E-Learning Jamaica Project
The primary goal of the E-Learning Project (2005-2010) is to
contribute to an improvement in the quality of education for
Grades 7 – 11 in 186 educational institutions islandwide. These
include 166 public High Schools, six public Special Schools, eight
Teachers College, five Community Colleges and one independent
High School. The project promotes use of state-of-the-art
Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to enhance
the learning experience and improve the level of passes in the
CSEC examinations. The major achievements in 2009 included
the following:
Instructional Materials
– Teachers’ and Students’ Instructional Materials (TIMs
and SIMs) for English, Mathematics, Biology and Infor-
mation Technology were acquired and delivered to all
public High Schools and Teachers’ Colleges as well as to
Hydel High School (Independent school included in the
pilot project), Materials for Chemistry were delivered to
the 96 project schools.
– The Joint Board of Teacher Education (JBTE) Founda-
tion/UWI Mona and UTECH/University of Plymouth
were contracted to develop Government-owned materials
for English, Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology. Use of
materials for the three terms in the school year and site
testing of materials began in pilot schools.
– Forty video lectures were produced, 10 each for English,
Biology, Mathematics and Information Technology.
These were placed on the e-LJam web-site, delivered to
schools on DVDs and scheduled for broadcast by the Pub-
lic Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ).
– Over 9 000 items (test questions) covering 11 sub-
jects were approved and provided on DVDs to all
project schools and over 5 000 were placed on the
e-LJam web-site, which functions in the interim as
the Central Repository for Educational Materials
(CREM). The Item Bank was used by students to re-
vise for June 2009 examinations. Additional item
writers and reviewers were contracted to produce an
additional 13 000 test items.
– An instructional technology expert assisted in the
planning and development of standards for the ma-
terials being produced; advised on the technical and
human resource requirements of the CREM; and
provided Cost/Benefit Analysis for the CREM host-
ing options.
Technology Infrastructure
– Audiovisual equipment was delivered to 162 of 166
public High Schools, eight Teachers Colleges, five
Community Colleges and six Special Education
Schools.
– Computer equipment and networks were installed in
162 public High Schools and eight Teachers’ Col-
leges.
– The Interim repository was established on the
e-LJam web-site and technical specifications for the
CREM finalised for hosting by the MOE.
– Asset Management Systems were installed in 45.0
per cent of project schools.
 22.16

TABLE 22.8
ENROLMENT IN GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT SPECIAL EDUCATION
PROGRAMMES, 2008/09
AREA OF FOCUS
Male Female Total
Intellectually Challenged 1 052 685 1 737
Blind and Visually Impaired 51 48 99
Deaf and Hearing Impaired 251 170 421
Learning Disabled 270 174 444
Multiple Disabled 444 226 670
Physically Disabled 130 88 218
Autistic 74 29 103
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 39 13 52
Speech and Language Disabled 171 104 275
Others 301 81 382

Total 2 783 1 618 4 401

Source: Special Education Unit, MOE

Teacher Training – Workshops to review all mathematics materials sup-

– The HEART Trust/NTA was contracted to provide train-
ing and certification in ICT skills. Over 10 000 of 11 400
teachers and lecturers and MOE Education Officers were
trained; approximately 6 000 were certified to NCTVET
NVQ-J level 1 standards; 284 systems administrators
were trained in network management training; and 100
teachers trained as trainers in ICT skills.
– The Mico Foundation was contracted to provide training
in the integration of technology into instructional deliv-
ery. Over 700 teachers received this exposure.
– Collaboration with the JBTE provided scholarships for
lecturers from the Teachers Colleges to pursue on-line
Masters degrees in Education Technology at British Co-
lumbia University.
Remedial
– Specialised equipment and software were identified for
schools offering Special Education.
– Planning commenced for a Volunteer Programme, to as-
sist low-performing schools.
Continuous Assessment
– Grade 9 Diagnostic Tests in English and Mathematics
were pilot administered in June 2009 to 29 schools.
Project Evaluation
plied were held for all schools.
– Equipment and materials audits were carried out in
96 project schools.
– MOUs outlining responsibilities of each party with
respect to project implementation, deployment, us-
age and security of equipment and materials were
signed with schools.
The MOE/HEART Trust/NTA Technical and Voca-
tional Education and Training (TVET) Rationaliza-
tion Project (2002-2008)
This project was undertaken to rationalize existing
technical and vocational programmes in secondary schools
and involves the sharing of facilities and programmes
among schools in a common geographical area (cluster) to
maximize resources. Laboratories were upgraded as
“Centres of Excellence”, with one such centre in each
school. The project which started in Westmoreland and St.
Elizabeth was replicated in Kingston and St. Andrew and,
overall has been assessed as successful. In the 17 schools in
Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth, a total of 4 164 students
were enrolled in 14 TVET programme areas in 39 Centres of
Excellence. House Keeping and Food Preparation were new
additions to the list of programmes. Nine schools in the
corporate area began hosting 13 TVET programmes.
Transportation was provided to enable access to each
cluster. The cluster in St. Elizabeth received an additional
bus.

– The JBTE Foundation (UWI Mona) was contracted to
provide Project Evaluation services. A baseline survey
was conducted, and an Implementation Process Plan and
Formative Evaluation were completed.
School Implementation Support
– School e-Learn ing Im ple men ta tion Com mit tees
(SEIMC) were established in all schools and colleges to
oversee the implementation of the project and to ensure
buy-in/ownership. Orientation and project update meet-
ings were held with all schools.
A five-year strategic plan, complete with costing – the
Roadmap for Mainstreaming TVET in Jamaican Public
High Schools 2009-2014, was produced and submitted to
HEART Trust/NTA and the MOE. The Roadmap provides
the framework for mainstreaming TVET in schools. It
provides:
– Grades 7-9 with TVET involvement via Resource
and Technology (R&T) as well as Career Guid-
ance.

– Grades 10-11 with TVET par tic i pa tion via NVQ
Level1/CSEC Technical Proficiency, as well as Career
Guidance and Counselling.
– Grades 12-13 with participation in TVET via NVQ Levels
1 and 2 as well as CSEC Technical Proficiency. The Ca-
reer Advancement Programme (CAP) which is to be pi-
loted in 2010 will operate at this level.
School Feeding Programme (SFP)
The School Feeding Programme which assists in improving
the nutritional status of students continued to be an integral part of
the Ministry of Education’s Welfare Programme. The Nutribun
and Milk and Traditional Cooked Lunch components are integral
aspects of this programme. The total allocated to the school
feeding programme was $1.8 billion.
The Nutribun Programme: This programme is largely the
responsibility of Nutrition Products Limited, an Agency of the
Ministry of Education. It prepared and distributed milk and a solid
(cheese bread, bun, rock cake, bulla, spice cake) to approximately
136 000 students at a cost of $2.00 to each student. Ten per cent of
each $2.00 contribution went to a special fund, which was used to
assist with developmental projects at the schools such as school
gardens and the provision of stoves, refrigerators, freezers and
bun bins for storage of solids for the programme.
The Tra di tional Cooked Lunch Programme: This
programme facilitated the provision of cooked meals for
approximately 175 000 beneficiaries in 636 Infant, Primary,
All-Age, Primary and Junior High and Secondary High Schools.
The Ministry paid a subsidy of $350.00 per annum per student. In
addition to the subsidy provided, the Ministry supplied a number
of essential items26 to supplement the programme. These items
were also supplied to 86 000 children in recognized Basic
Schools.
Students contributed between $20 and $100 per meal
depending on locality and ability to pay. These contributions
along with the subsidy from the Ministry were used to finance staff
and inputs for meal preparation. The Early Childhood Unit also
disbursed a nutrition subsidy of $250.00 per annum per child to
Recognized Basic Schools. It is the policy of the government that
no child who is unable to pay should be denied a meal or nutribun
snack.
Nutritional Support for PATH Beneficiaries
The GOJ increased its budgetary allocation for nutritional
support to PATH beneficiaries under the School Feeding
Programme. The per capita payment increased to $7 888.65 from
$3 868.17 for 119 000 beneficiaries, totalling some $938.0
million.
Secondary School Enhancement Programme (SSEP)
The Secondary School Enhancement Programme was
introduced in 2001 to address the issues of equity and access in the
secondary school system. The programme is geared at providing
funds to improve laboratories and the classroom environment;
purchase equipment and materials to enhance the teaching and
learning processes; and ultimately raise the performance levels of
students. The primary beneficiaries of the programme are new,
26 These included rice, flour, cornmeal, vegetable oil, corned beef and tinned mackerel
22.17
reclassified and upgraded high schools. For the 2008/09
budget year, the total disbursed was $101.5 million. The
number of schools benefiting from the programme was 128,
with allocations ranging from $150 000.00 to $1.0 million.
Guidance and Counselling
Activities of the Guidance and Counselling Unit
included the following:
Prevention Education
Training was conducted for 311 guidance counsellors
and 149 students in gambling prevention. Some 359 students
participated in the Caribbean Poison Information
competitions in art, drama, posters and dub poetry.
Prevention programmes were implemented in two schools
and substance abuse treatment provided for 42 students in
collaboration with the National Council on Drug Abuse.
Health and Family Life Education (HFLE)
The major activities included training in HFLE in 647
schools, involving 1 950 teachers/ guidance counsellors and
principals, and a total of 292 626 students. The National
Sexuality and Reproductive Health Expo was held in 107
schools, with 214 teachers/guidance counsellors and 2 590
students participating. An HFLE Principals Sensitization
Workshop was conducted and principals of 200 public and
independent schools attended.
Educational Materials
A number of resource materials were produced and
distributed to schools. These included 2 084 curriculum
guides (Grades 1-6 and Grades 7-9), 4 844 copies of Facts of
Life, 6 644 copies of My Body and Me, 30 495 charts,
pamphlets and other health and family life materials.
Programme for Alternative Student Support (PASS)
PASS provided behavioural intervention and treatment
for 314 students who displayed chronic maladaptive
behaviour patterns in 44 schools at the Secondary level. Ten
Sensitization Workshops were held, involving 338
participants; and 26 presentations made islandwide to 3 177
participants.
The Unit collaborated with USAID in the training in
Gang Investigation Strategies at nine pilot schools. The Unit
also partnered with other MOE units to establish the post of
Dean of Discipline in 87 schools and the institutionalization
of ASIP. The MOE Unit also collaborated with the Ministry
of Health to host mental health workshops for 220 school
personnel.
The Jamaica Library Service (JLS)
Through its network of public and school libraries the
JLS continued to provide reference, research and lending
services by making accessible its collection of reading and
related resources, including its online periodicals database.
This was complemented by a schedule of specially
organized public education, literacy development and
 22.18
current affairs awareness activities. These included public lectures
and discussions, expositions, exhibitions and displays,
community information service, special interest clubs, the
National Reading Competition, the National Reading Fair,
seminars, workshops and training programmes. Highlights of the
year included events to mark the 60th Anniversary of the JLS. The
total membership on record decreased 2.0 per cent to 607 982. The
main contributory factor was the sustained removal of inactive
membership undertaken throughout the island network.
Other major developments were:
– the creation of programmes and services that promoted
literacy and lifelong learning among persons at all levels.
An example is the introduction of a new literacy initiative
in partnership with the National Parenting Commission
of the MOE to encourage parents to read with children and
help to cultivate the reading habit at an early age.
– the National Reading Fair, attended by 2 500 persons and
the National Reading Competition, in which approxi-
mately 1 650 persons participated..
– fora on Trafficking in Persons held at the Clarendon
and Trelawny Parish Libraries under an initiative of the
National Task Force Against Trafficking in Persons.
– six regional seminars for teacher/librarians, conducted
under the theme The School Library: A Gateway to
Knowledge.
The Public Library Network recorded improvement in several
areas as shown by the increases in collection of books and related
resources, membership, and the circulation of material for home
reading or reference use. A 6.0 per cent increase brought the
number of resources borrowed for home reading or consultation to
3.2 million. The collection of books and reading resources
increased by 2.5 per cent to 749 762.
There was an almost twofold increase in the use of the
computer service for research and other activities. This movement
was mainly attributable to the expansion and upgrade of computer
facilities at a number of service points and the introduction of free
access to computers and the Internet. There was also a 43.0 per
cent increase to 30 533 in reading resources compared to 2008.
The School Library Network provided service to 926
government schools on behalf of the MOE. The Network
increased its focus on early childhood development and the
provision of proper facilities for school libraries. Discussions with
principals and teacher/librarians resulted in the reactivation of 81
formerly inactive school libraries. During the year a total of 39 182
items of resource material were purchased. This represented a
decline of 12 739 or 25.0 per cent when compared with 2008.
Some 48 008 volumes, 62 sets of encyclopaedia and dictionaries
were distributed to schools islandwide. The ICT capacity in seven
school libraries was improved through the provision of computers
by the MOE.
In relation to ICT Capacity:
– There was further improvement in ICT capacity with the
purchase of 90 computer systems that increased adminis-
trative efficiency and improve public access.
– Online membership databases were created at all libraries
with ICT capacity.
– There was also continuing upgrade of the ICT infra-
structure with the implementation of Phase II of the
Local Area Network project in the Clarendon, Man-
chester, Portland, St. Ann, St. Catherine, St. Eliza-
beth, St. James,
St. Mary and Westmoreland Parish Libraries.
Jamaican Foundation for Lifelong Learning (JFLL)
The JFLL has as its mandate the provision of Basic
literacy and numeracy skills, however, in recent times it has
offered additional lifelong learning skills and programmes
such as Computer Aided Literacy (Auto Skills), Computer
Studies, Workplace Education Programme and the High
School Equivalency Programme. During the year its major
focus was on programmes aimed at the re-engagement of
some 127 000 unattached youth and the forging of
partnerships with public and private sector entities towards
upgrading the literacy skills of the workforce.
Programmes
– One of the Agency’s flagship programmes, Founda-
tion LENS (Lessons in English, Numeracy and Sur-
vival) is geared towards persons who are non-liter-
ate or have low levels of literacy. Learners in this
programme are taken through a course of 320 hours
of training (Levels I-IV) culminating in assessment
certification in Functional Literacy (Level IV),
which is notionally equivalent to the Grade 6 level.
During the period under review, 8 123 learners were
enrolled (80.0 per cent male). Some 1 266 learners
were assessed with 697 being certified as function-
ally literate.
– The High School Equivalency Progamme (HISEP)
is geared towards learners 18 years and older who
did not complete a second ary level academic
programme. Learners pursue a recommended three
year programme in five subject areas. Upon suc-
cessful completion of all five subjects, learners are
awarded the High School Equivalency Diploma
(HISED). There are 434 learners enrolled (81.6 per
cent female) in the programme island-wide and they
are at different levels and stages of training. Subject
passes to date are as follows:
Language & Communication - 48
Mathematics - 1
Society & Citizenship - 35
Literature, Culture & Arts – 8
Science & Technology -1
Workplace Education in Literacies and Life
Skills (WELLS) – This programme caters to the
needs of industry and service-driven enterprises
and supports the quest for higher levels of pro-
ductivity. Learners are sponsored for training in
this programme. Lessons are customized to
meet the needs of the workplace. During the re-
view period 259 learners were enrolled (60.2 per
cent male) with 165 learners being assessed and
certified.

Developments
– Workplace Education Programme – this programme
has evolved moving from corporate sponsorship of em-
ployees training to include the delivery of services to
learners drawn from the host communities of the sponsor-
ing organizations. In this regard two contracts were
signed with the Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI) and Alcoa
Foundation/JAMALCO.
– GNAT – In 2009, JFLL received direct referrals of stu-
dents who were assessed at the Grade Nine Level. Some
207 students were referred, with 107 referred to the St.
Elizabeth centres.
– Career Advancement Programme (CAP) – the JFLL
collaborated with the MOE, HEART Trust/NTA and the
National Youth service (NYS) towards the development
of this programme. JFLL contributed through recruitment
and orientation activities, assessment of learners and spe-
cialized training of literacy teachers with a focus on
age-appropriate instructional measures.
– Partnerships – the JFLL continued its partnerships with
government and non-government agencies and with the
George Brown College (Canada). Active partnerships
during the period under review include:
Ministry of Labour & Social Security (MLSS) –
learners are referred to JFLL for remedial training.
These learners fall in two categories:
Steps to Work Programme – learners entering from
this group are referred from the Social Security Sec-
tion of MLSS. They are from households which are
un der the Programme of Advancement through
Health and Education (PATH). During the period, 113
learners accessed training.
Special Youth Employment and Training Programme
(SYEAT). Learners participating in this programme
are referred from the Labour Section of the MLSS and
are given the opportunity to access training while they
gain work experience from organizations and/or ap-
prenticeship arrangements. During the year under re-
view, 77 learners accessed training.
HEART Trust NTA
Pre-vocational Programme – Learners who fail to ma-
triculate for vocational training at HEART due to low
scores on the requisite entrance tests are referred to
JFLL for remedial training and are later redirected to
HEART to resit the entrance examination after train-
ing. A total of 726 of the 968 learners referred, at-
tended training.
EU Banana Sector Retraining Project – This interven-
tion impacted banana farmers, farm and port workers
from banana producing parishes of Portland, St.
James and Clarendon. Remedial training was deliv-
ered to these learners to facilitate greater access to al-
ternative training and certification opportunities thus
enabling their transition into alternative means of sus-
tainable income generating activities. Some 214
learners were referred, 111 attended training.
22.19
International Partnerships: George Brown College of
Applied Arts & Technology (GBC), Canada
Social Work students of George Brown College
completed their practicum in Jamaica, through
the delivery of lessons in Life Skills and the pro-
vision of counselling to JFLL learners. Some 15
GBC students were assigned to five parishes,
under the supervision of the respective parish
managers, to complete their practicum.
Five JFLL members of staff completed training
and received certification from GBC as Life
Skills Coaches.
National Council on Education (NCE)
The National Council on Education (NCE), in fulfilling
its mandate to stimulate the development of education in
Jamaica, collaborated with the MOE to launch the Revised
Procedures for Appointment of School Boards. These
procedures seek to better ensure improved quality,
efficiency and accountability of School Boards and have
been endorsed by the MOE. A public Sensitization
Programme for the Revised Procedures for the Appointment
of School Boards was also implemented through various
media. Sensitizations talks were also held in Region Five,
(Mandeville, St. Elizabeth and Northern Clarendon) which
is the first Region slated for implementation of the revised
procedures.
Boards of Management were appointed to 170
institutions in Region One and 120 in Region Two. A total of
110 new Board Chairmen were trained in three workshops in
Regions One and Six. The training programme included
three main areas: Roles and Responsibilities of Boards of
Management; School Governance Machinery; and
Managing School Finances. The Council published the first
edition of The Illuminator, a quarterly newsletter, which will
highlight key areas and to keep stakeholders abreast of
developments in the Education Sector.
As one of its primary functions the Council advises the
Minister of Education on policy matters relating to
education. In relation to this function the NCE conducted
research on ‘Expletives and Inappropriate Language in
School Texts’. The research findings informed the
preparation of a policy statement by the Ministry on this
issue.
SECTION 4: POST SECONDARY EDUCATION
This section reviews the activities of post-secondary
education and training institutions and the contribution these
institutions made to providing skilled and semi-skilled
workers. Available data indicated that some 60 623 (55.3 per
cent female) were trained in post secondary institutions
(Table 22.9). Most persons received training as cooks,
waiters and other hotel personnel (27.6 per cent); craftsmen,
production process and operating personnel (22.3 per cent),
and as secretarial and other commercial personnel (21.3 per
cent). Persons trained in computing accounted for an
additional 15.7 per cent. These skill sets were in high
demand, corresponding with the pattern of growth in the
hospitality and ICT industries.
 22.20

TABLE 22.9
OUTPUT OF SKILLED AND SEMI-SKILLED MANPOWER BY OCCUPATION, 2007 - 2009

OCCUPATION 2007 2008 2009

Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL

1. Agricultural Personnel 246 245 491 817 414 1 231 1 451 373 1 824
2. Cooks, Waiters & Other Hotel Personnel 2 899 8 282 11 181 3 478 10 670 14 148 4 053 12 669 16 722
3. Craftsmen, Production Process and Operating Personnel 9 028 2 244 11 272 12 664 2 198 14 862 11 777 1 771 13 548
4. Policea 100 0 100 267 89 356 394 248 642
5. Secretarial and Other Commercial Personnel 723 2 371 3 094 3 025 4 591 7 616 5 045 7 854 12 899
6. Cosmetology 42 1 206 1 248 45 1 371 1 416 59 1 988 2 047
7. Computing 3 070 4 559 7 629 4 539 5 325 9 864 3 562 5 983 9 545
8. Miscellaneousb 5 791 8 961 14 752 870 3 411 4 281 749 2 647 3 396

TOTAL 21 899 27 868 49 767 25 705 28 069 53 774 27 090 33 533 60 623

a - The total includes regular and district constables

b - Includes training in Early Childhood Care, Practical Nursing, Assessors Training and other customized programmes

Source: Compiled from data supplied by the Police Academy,

Human Employment and Resource Training Trust/National Training Agency (HEART Trust/NTA),
Technical High, Vocational/Agricultural Schools and Other Selected Training Institutions.

Community Colleges were enrolled in Community College programmes with 105

Community Colleges provided pre-university, general
education, professional and para-professional training
opportunities. There are eight community colleges: Moneague
and Brown’s Town in St. Ann; Bethlehem in St. Elizabeth;
Montego Bay in St. James; Portmore in St. Catherine; Knox in
Manchester; Excelsior Community College (EXED) in Kingston
and at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE)
in Portland. Moneague College, Bethlehem and CASE are
multi-disciplinary institutions as they also serve as teacher
training institutions.
Brown’s Town Community College had 1 484 students
enrolled (65.0 per cent female) and 204 students (77.4 per cent
females) graduating. The Established Farmers Training
Programme (FTP) was inaugurated as part of the College’s
community outreach to impact the socio-economic condition of
the wider population. The College trained the first batch of 47
Residential Care Assistants for employment in Canada. The
course was conducted in partnership with Sprott-Shaw
Community College of Vancouver British Columbia, Marmicmon
IMC of British Columbia and the Ministry of Labour, Jamaica.
The College commenced training the first batch of students as
Practical Nurses (Canadian LPN’s) for the Canadian market.
Through the Business and Workshop Development Programme,
40 Supervisors from St. Ann Jamaica Bauxite Partners completed
Supervisory Management training in. September 2009.
Knox Community College had 1 577 enrolled (61.6 per cent
female). The number of students graduating was 307 (64.2 per
cent female). Montego Bay Community College had a total
enrolment of 945 (61.2 per cent female). A total of 734 students
graduated (66.6 per cent female). At the College of Agriculture,
Science and Education, 217 students (81.0 per cent females)
(83.0 per cent) graduating.
Excelsior Community College (EXED) had an
enrolment of 1 768 students (70.5 per cent female) and 478
students graduated (70.7 per cent female). The University
Council of Jamaica (UCJ) has granted accreditation for the
Associate of Science Degree and the Bachelors Degree in
Business Studies.
EXED was selected as an ICT Centre of Excellence. The
Centre of Excellence is a joint project between the
Government of India and the Government of Jamaica in
partnership with the HEART Trust/NTA and Excelsior
Community College. The objective is to build ICT capacity
in Jamaica in the areas of Networking and Enterprise
Software Development.
The Oracabessa campus introduced new modular
c o u r s es i n Ev e n t s P l an n i n g , Tr a d it io n a l Da n c e
Communication, Voice and Speech, and Theatre Arts such
as acting and musical production. The group at this campus
pursued the Technical Certificate for Entertainment
Managers and Coordinators and graduated its first cohort
this summer.
Approval was received from the Council of Community
Colleges of Jamaica for the EXED School of Nursing to
enable practicing Registered Nurses to upgrade their current
professional qualifications to a Bachelor of Science Degree
in Nursing27. Alliances were forged with Knox College to
offer the Bachelor and Associate Degrees in Environmental
Studies.
At the Moneague College some 730 students (77.3 per
cent female) were enrolled with 136 (81.0 per cent female)

27 EXED has joint nursing programmes with UWI and UTECH respectively. In addition it has a UCJ accredited nursing degree
programme.

graduating. At Bethlehem Moravian College, 91 students were
enrolled (94.5 per cent female) and 29 students (93.1 per cent
female) graduated.
Portmore Community College introduced one new
programme, the Certificate in Hospitality, and Tourism, at its Old
Harbour location. The programme is intended for students who
want to matriculate into the Associate Degree in Hospitality but do
not have the requisite CSEC qualifications. The number of
students graduating from the Associate Degree in Business
increased as the Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica
(CCCJ) ratified students from previous cohorts who had not been
ratified previously. Portmore Community College had an
enrolment of 1 611 students (63.6 per cent female) and 377
students (70.5 per cent female) graduated.
National Training Agency HEART Trust/NTA
The fiscal year 2008/09 saw the establishment of 30 major
partnerships, which resulted in the expansion of access to training,
nationally. The period also saw the establishment of a total of 142
institutional partnerships. Some 22 new projects providing
training opportunities for a total of 3 985 individuals were
approved. The financial commitment by HEART Trust/NTA for
the execution of projects during financial year 2008/09 was $41.8
million. Twelve firms were approved for financial assistance
under the Special Incentives Programme, with a commitment of
approximately $7.97 million.
Nine externally financed projects were developed and
approved. These included partnerships with UNICEF, ICT4D
Jamaica-Commonwealth of Learning, EU Banana Sector Project
and the Government of Jamaica-India ICT Project.
HEART Trust/NTA introduced initiatives to improve the
quality and relevance of its products and services. These included
– the reintroduction of the Remedial Programme;
– improvements in the Language and Communication
programme;
– increase in information available online ;
– the development and implementation of an external veri-
fication process; and
– strengthening of the Employability Skills programme.
The 2008/09 Tracer Study on HEART graduates or
beneficiaries was conducted on the 2007/08 cohort of completers
who participated in the Construction, ICT, Hospitality and
Agricultural training programmes. The subjects for the study were
selected from among those who participated in the Community
Based Projects and HEART owned institutions. The objective of
the Tracer Study was primarily to determine the impact that
training may have had on the outcome of HEART graduates or
completers participating in the labour market, as well as the extent
28 Data on graduation/output for 2007/08 was incomplete and as such do not allow comparative analysis with 2008/09.
29 This excludes the Pre-vocational Programme, Technical High Schools and Marginal Institutions
30 The classifications are Level I (entry-level, semi-skilled), Level II, (journeyman, skilled) and Level III, (technician, supervisor),
Level IV, (master craftsman) and Level V, (professional).
31 Academies are predominantly institutions which focus on one occupational area e.g. automotive trades, cosmetology, construction,
commercial skills, agricultural, industrial or hospitality areas.
32
The Apprenticeship programme is an on-the-job programme in which trainees are employed under a contract of apprenticeship and are supervised
by skilled workmen who provide instruction in all aspects of the trade.
22.21
to which the training received at HEART may have
influenced individuals to pursue further studies/training.
The findings show that the overall employment rates of the
beneficiaries in Construction, ICT, Hospitality and
Agriculture were 67.0 per cent, 59.0 per cent, 70.0 per cent
and 58.0 per cent, respectively. The study also showed that
24.0 per cent of respondents had completed or were
currently pursuing additional studies or training.
Enrolment and Graduation
Enrolment for fiscal year 2008/09 declined by 3.3 per
cent to 107 756 (54.2 per cent females). Output from
HEART Trust/NTA programmes stood at 60 795 (55.4 per
cent female)28. The overall output, inclusive of School
p r o g r a mme s an d o t h e r N o n - H E A RT Tr u s t /N TA
programmes in the NCTVET NVQ framework was 63 534
trainees. Over the past five years, enrolment in HEART
Trust/NTA programmes increased by 76.5 per cent while
output increased by 72.6 per cent.
In HEART’s mainstream training centres29 enrolment
was 102 993 (55.5 per cent female), a 9.0 per cent increase
compared with 2007/08 (Table 22.10). By broad skill area,
there were sizeable increases in all areas except Cabinet
Making Skills (decreasing by 50.1 per cent). Large increases
were observed for Early Childhood Care/ Other Educational
Skills (22.7 per cent) and Apparel and Sewn Products Skills
(17.2 per cent). In terms of training levels30, 46.2 per cent
were enrolled in Level I; 21.4 per cent in Level II; 1.7 per
cent in Level III; and 1.8 per cent at Level IV and above).
The remaining 28.1 per cent were enrolled in Unit
C o m p e t e n c i e s p r o g r a mm e s a n d N o n - N C T V E T
programmes. Available data show that 16 436 Level IV
trainees were enrolled for Unit Competencies at Levels I to
IV and 59 897 trainees completed training with females
accounting for 55.5 per cent.
Training continued to be provided through School
Leavers Training Opportunities Programmes (SL-TOPs),
Apprenticeships, Workforce Development Programmes,
Academies31 and Vocational Training Centres (VTCs), and
Community Based and other Special Programmes.
The Enterprise Based Training (EBT) Programme
provided a direct service to businesses by assisting them in
defining training needs and providing training. The total
number of persons enrolled in these programmes increased
by 25.0 per cent to 26 672 (52.5 per cent female), while those
completing numbered 16 343 (51.8 per cent female). The
SL-TOPs provided on-the-job training and employment for
school leavers with no job experience. Enrolment in
SL-TOPs increased by 17.0 per cent to 4 823 (68.8 per cent
female), and output increased two-fold to 801 (75.3 per cent
female). The Apprenticeship programme32, like the
SL-TOPs, had challenges in placing trainees in on-the-job
 22.22

TABLE 22.10
ENROLMENT AND OUTPUT OF SKILLED AND SEMI-SKILLED MANPOWER FROM NON-FORMAL
HUMAN EMPLOYMENT AND RESOURCE TRAINING/ NATIONAL TRAINING AGENCY PROGRAMMES,
2007/08 - 2008/09

FY 2007/08 FY 2008/09
ENROLMENT OUTPUT ENROLMENT OUTPUT
SKILL AREAS
Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL

Agricultural 1 225 727 1 952 817 414 1 231 1 840 650 2 490 1 420 334 1 754
Allied Health Care Services 52 512 564 3 138 141 24 652 676 21 177 198
Apparel and Sewn Products 82 1 698 1 780 68 1 376 1 444 96 1 377 1 473 60 1 054 1 114
Art & Craft 150 263 413 66 180 246 173 219 392 84 141 225
Beauty Care Services 137 2 667 2 804 44 1 349 1 393 151 3 290 3 441 59 1 988 2 047
Building Construction 11 975 694 12 669 8 421 517 8 938 12 033 607 12 640 7 063 315 7 378
Cabinet Making 544 23 577 602 21 623 280 8 288 206 7 213
Commercial Skills 7 906 10 902 18 807 3 025 4 591 7 616 8 602 13 742 22 344 5 045 7 854 12 899
Early Childhood Care and Other 1 296 6 153 7 449 421 2 946 3 367 938 4 818 5 756 480 2 326 2 806
Education/Training Skills
Hospitality 5 864 17 805 23 669 3 478 10 670 14 148 6 773 20 761 27 534 4 051 12 656 16 707

Information & Communication 7 112 8 696 15 808 4 539 5 325 9 864 6 832 10 292 17 124 3 562 5 983 9 545
Technology
Machine & Appliance Maintenance/ 3 144 124 3 268 1 297 43 1 340 3620 155 3 775 1 430 80 1 510
Repair
Transportation/Automotive Trade 3 299 195 3 494 2 210 61 2 271 4075 224 4 299 2 934 174 3 108
Other Skills 719 490 1 209 446 327 773 392 369 761 248 144 392
TOTAL 43 515 50 949 94 463 25 437 27 958 53 395 45 829 57 164 102 993 26 663 33 233 59 896

Note: Data on Output for 2006/07 provide partial information and do not permit comparative analysis with 2007/08 and
do not include Remedial and Continuing Education Programmes and Programmes in Technical High and Other Secondary Schools.
Source: Planning and Projects Division, Human Employment and Resource Training/ National Training Agency

training opportunities. Enrolment in the Apprenticeship
programme was 238 (94.5 per cent, male) with 23 trainees
completing for the period.
Enrolment in Academies and Vocational Training Centres
was 44 556 (51.0 per cent female), a 6.6 per cent decline compared
with 2008. Total output from the training programmes in these
institutions was 29 088 (52.3 per cent female), a 13.0 per cent
decline compared with 2008.
Community-Based and other Special Programmes33 are
aimed at satisfying the demand for training identified by the
communities. These programmes are operated by
n o n - g o v e r n me n t al o rg a n i za t io n s , c o mmu n i ty - b as e d
organizations and faith-based institutions. Overall enrolment was
15 942 (73.8 per cent female), reflecting a 15.9 per cent increase
compared with 2007/08. Out-turn from these programmes was
9 056 (74.1 per cent female).
The NVQ-J certification, including VTDI’s certificates that
are deemed to be equivalent to the NVQ-J’s full level
qualifications, was awarded to 26 357 persons during fiscal year
2008/09. This represents a 4.1 per cent increase over the previous
year’s figure of 25 307. During the reporting year, 16 499 persons
or 61.0 per cent of total NVQs were awarded to completers at
Level I. Certification at the higher levels (Level II and
above) went to 9 858 persons (Table 22.11).
Unit Certification or recognition of competence34 was
achieved by 30 119 individuals in 2008/09 compared to
44 811 in the previous year. NCTVET Joint & Other
(Non-NCTVET) Certification was achieved by 5 061
persons in 2008/09, down from 5 493 or by 7.8 per cent over
the previous year
SECTION 5: TERTIARY EDUCATION
AND TRAINING
This section reviews the activities of both public and
private tertiary institutions and their contribution to
developing the skills of professionals, senior officials and
technicians for the labour market. Available data indicate
that the output of tertiary institutions totalled 14 151 (71.7
per cent female) (Table 22.12). Enrolment at the tertiary
level was estimated at 64 034 students (68.1 per cent
female), a gross enrolment rate of 30.8 per cent. (Table
22.13)

33 Special Programmes include the Lift Up Jamaica Programme which had 1 286 persons enrolled (50.5 per cent female) and 139
completing.
34 Individuals who obtain units of competency are not awarded an NCTVET certificate until they have obtained all the required units
for a full level qualification.

TABLE 22.11
NVQ-J CERTIFICATES AWARDED TO COMPLETERS BY LEVEL, 2007/08
Programme
EBT (SL-TOP, Apprenticeship, & WDP)
IBT (Academies, VTCs & CIT)
CBT Projects (Incl. SDC,s projects)
VTDI ;
THSDP & Other Secondary Schools
Other Providers (Non-HEART Financed Progs).
Total
% Represented by Level
Source: HEART Trust /NTA, 2007/08 Financial Budget & Annual Performance Report ;
University of the West Indies (UWI) (Mona)
Throughout the 2008-2009 academic year, the activities of the
University of the West Indies, continued to revolve around the
2007-2012 Strategic Plan formulated to address issues related to
Teaching and Learning, Graduate Studies, Research and
Innovation and Support to the Open Campuses.
Increasing Enrolment
With the assistance of the Regional Endowment Fund the
University was able to introduce a total of nine new scholarships
and bursaries made available to new students. There was also a
greater thrust towards Sports Development offering numerous
scholarships, with a latent function of reversing the gender gap at
this level of the education system. The enrolment process at the
UWI was enabled by an online application system for which there
was a 100.0 per cent online application record for the year 2009.
Curriculum Renewal
Subsequent to reviews of the curriculum, Caribbean Needs
Assessment and the findings of a 2007/08 UWI tracer study, a
range of new programmes was strategically introduced at various
levels. These included BSc degrees in Medical Physics and
Bio-engineering, Tropical Horticulture, Digital Media
Productions and Management Studies (entrepreneurship). Among
the programmes introduced at the graduate level were the Master
in Science degrees in Marine and Terrestrial Ecosystems:
Assessment Conservation and Management (MATE);
Agricultural Entrepreneurship; and in Forensic Science;, a PhD in
Public Health and an Electronics Engineering programme, the
first to be launched outside of the St. Augustine campus.
New attempts were also made at non-traditional programme
delivery which saw the introduction of the Weekend Degree
Programme for selected degree programmes. There were also
numerous programmes geared at improving the quality of service
offered to the university population through training of human
resources and the improvement of administrative systems. These
improvements were largely facilitated by the work of the Mona
Information Technology Services (MITS) which contributed
through enhancing various processes, and developments
35
The Institute is a non-profit public institute, which seeks to promote Chinese language and culture, and supports local Chinese teaching
internationally, through affiliated Confucius Institutes.
22.23
Level I Level II Level III
6 005 353 8
2 342 7 029 1 672
5 631 411 11
0 0 298
2 325 3 0
196 51 22
16 499 7 847 2 011
62.6 29.8 7.6
associated with the Peoplesoft Banner and computerized
maintenance management systems.
The UWI also sought to strengthen curriculum
development through international collaboration. The
partnership with the Taiyuan University of Technology in
China led to the establishment of the Confucius Institute3535
on the Mona Campus.
Conferences and Symposia
Throughout the year there was a range of conferences
and symposia addressing numerous social issues, their
consequences and the way forward. Noteworthy were the
presentations on Transforming Research into Policy and
Practice; Nov el Appr oaches to Agr iculture and
Agribusinesses; the Diversification of Caribbean Exports:
Opportunities and Challenges; and Providing Strategic and
Sustainable Solutions for Public and Private Sector
Organizations.
Funding the University Operations
Consistent with reduction in the government’s allocation
of funds to tertiary education, the University sought actively
to diversify its income streams internally and externally
through at least 13 initiatives. These included novel
creations such as the JAMNAV, a road navigation system
attracting local and international business interest launched
through the Mona Geoinformatics Institute. The University
also partnered with Caribbean Genetics (CARIGEN), and
successfully introduced two new DNA related services,
namely the DNA-based prenatal screening (to test for
genetic disorders in the unborn child) and DNA testing for
Human Papiloma virus (HPV), Chlamydia and Gonorrhea –
three of the most common Sexually Transmitted Infections
in Jamaica. The University also positioned itself to gain
revenue from offering consultancy services, incorporating a
technology park, encouraging greater numbers of full- fee
paying students in the Law and Medical faculties as well as
intensified cost efficiency strategies. These initiatives
resulted in a $206.0M increase in revenue for the University.
 22.24

TABLE 22.12
OUTPUT OF PROFESSIONAL, SENIOR OFFICIALS AND TECHNICIANS, 2007- 2009
OCCUPATION 2007 2008 2009
Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL Male Female TOTAL

Teachers 525 2 392 2 917 576 2 208 2 784 425 2 392 2 817
Vocational Instructors 560 826 1 386 488 641 1 129 109 121 230
Others 16 113 129 19 205 224 91 95 186
0
Medical Doctors 25 51 76 35 63 98 21 61 82
Nurses 11 297 308 15 737 752 4 497 501
Diagnostic
Radiographers (Prof. & Technicians) 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 16 21
Food & Nutrition (Prof. & Technicians) 11 90 101 6 23 29 1 19 20
Medical Technologists (Prof. & Technicians) 14 44 58 8 39 47 1 44 45
Laboratory Technicians 3 5 8 1 3 4 0
Pharmacists (Prof. & Technicians) 17 57 74 11 48 59 23 60 83
Physiotherapists 0 11 11 3 28 31 3 10 13
Dental Nurses/Assistants 1 4 5 4 12 16 2 11 13
Others 34 108 142 11 123 134 40 186 226
0
Accountants 570 1 298 1 868 551 1 379 1 930 410 1 089 1 499
Managers/ Administrators 1 107 2 865 3 972 1 132 2 576 3 708 1322 3 572 4 894
0
Engineers 90 24 114 235 31 266 133 37 170
Engineering Technicians 82 9 91 1 0 1 33 33 66
0
Economists 58 112 170 21 55 76 18 28 46
Social Scientists 82 404 486 70 364 434 65 287 352
Others 275 591 866 12 38 50 1 3 4
0
Physicists 0 1 1 18 5 23 1 0 1
Chemists 33 61 94 35 47 82 19 26 45
Others 106 120 226 39 73 112 127 154 281
0
Architecture (Prof. & Technician) 16 15 31 57 24 81 40 9 49
Land Surveyors (Prof. & Technicians) 55 34 89 49 20 69 203 78 281
Planning and Construction (Prof. and Technicians) 76 7 83 112 37 149 40 83 123
Others 12 1 13 0 0 0 27 5 32
0
Attorneys 13 47 60 13 47 60 11 55 66
0
Mathematicians 10 11 21 25 29 54 6 10 16
0
Agriculturalists 44 84 128 14 17 31 63 83 146
0
Computer Operator/Programmer 151 86 237 288 151 439 356 163 519
Computer Technician 381 287 668 78 97 175 49 22 71
0
Theologians 45 19 64 40 0 40 46 118 164
0
Engineers/Deck Officer 85 23 108 56 15 71 131 32 163
0
Miscellaneous Occupations 160 599 759 168 627 795 180 746 926

Total 4 669 10 699 15 368 4 191 9 762 13 953 4 006 10 145 14 151

Research – Investigating the Causes of and Responses to Re-

The University received 28 new externally Funded Grants for
various research projects in medicine, energy conservation,
information technology and environment and social welfare.
There were also some 40 other projects funded by the Research
Fellowship and New Initiatives Grants programmes. These
included:
cent Incidents of Financial Sector Instability affect-
ing Developing Countries
– Novel Utilisation of Red Mud for Anticorrosive
Protection and Heavy Metal Removal from Waste
Water in Jamaica
– The Effect of Zinc Supplementation and Synthetic
Testosterone on Hypogonadism in Adult Male Pa-
tients with Sickle Cell Disease
 22.25

TABLE 22.13
ENROLMENT IN SELECTED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS BY GENDER, 2008/09
INSTITUTION MALE FEMALE TOTAL
Bethlehem Moravian College 80 650 730
Brown's Town Community College 517 965 1 482
College of Agriculture, Science and Education 335 828 1 163
Caribbean Institute of Technology 1 011 221 1 232
Caribbean Maritime Institute 521 152 673
Church Teachers' College/Temple University 3 23 26
Dental Auxillary School 3 36 39
Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts 246 225 471
Excelsior Community College 522 1 246 1 768
G.C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport 269 294 563
International University of the Caribbean 213 496 709
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica 1 312 3 386 4 698
Jamaica Theological Seminary 108 121 229
Knox Community College 605 972 1 577
Media Technology Institute 27 7 34
Mico University College 226 1 242 1 468
Moneague Multi-Disciplinary College 230 1 071 1 301
Management Institute of National Development 1 245 4 087 5 332
Montego Bay Community College 367 578 945
Northern Caribbean University 1 230 4 297 5 527
Nursing Schools - UWI 3 233 236
Other Nursing Schools 4 371 375
Portmore Community College 587 1 024 1 611
Sam Sharpe Teachers' College 63 768 831
School of Physical Therapy 14 58 72
Shortwood Teachers' College 46 550 596
St. Michael's Theological College 69 179 248
St. Joseph's Teachers' College 20 687 707
University of Technology 5 052 6 175 11 227
University College of the Caribbean 823 2 365 3 188
University of the West Indies 3 721 9 254 12 975
Vocational Training Development Institute 947 1 054 2 001

TOTAL 20 419 43 615 64 034

Population 20-24 Years (Tertiary Cohort) 100 758 107 235 207 993
Tertiary Gross Enrolment Rate 20.3 40.7 30.8

Source: Tertiary Institutions

– The University of the West Indies Mona Workplace &
Student Wellness Survey
– Optimisation of Extraction of DNA from Archived For-
malin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) Breast and
Lymph Node Tissues from Surgical Specimens in Jamai-
can Patients
– A Longitudinal Study of Lung Function in Adults with
Sickle Cell Disease
– Challenging the Social Exclusion of Older Persons in Ja-
maica: A Case Study
– High Sensitivity C – Reactive Protein and its Relationship
to Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Jamaican Youth
– Contemporary Themes in Africana Philosophy
Enrolment and Graduation
Enrolment of Jamaicans at the three campuses of the
UWI36 registered a decline of 2.1 per cent to 13 014 (71.3 per
cent female) (Table 22.14). Of this number, 57.6 per cent
were enrolled full-time and the remaining, part-time. At the
Mona campus there were 12 815 Jamaican students (72.0 per
cent female), at the St. Augustine campus 148 students (57.4
per cent male), and on the Cave Hill campus 181 students
(76.2 per cent female). The total number of students
registered in off-campus study was 1 694. Enrolment in the
Faculty of Social Sciences at the baccalaureate level
continued to dominate total registration accounting for 39.6
per cent, followed by Humanities and Education which
accounted for 23.9 per cent.
The number of persons enrolled in undergraduate
programmes overall declined by 1.9 per cent to 9 778. For

36
Mona, Jamaica; St. Augustine, Trinidad; and Cave Hill in Barbados and includes first degree, post graduate degree, certificate and diploma
programmes.
 22.26

TABLE 22.14
ENROLMENT BY FACULTY AND GENDER,UWI, 2007/08 - 2008/09
2007/08 2008/09
Male Female Total Male Female Total
First Degree
Humanities and Education
Humanities 435 1 308 1 743 125 621 746
Education 169 815 984 400 1 191 1 591
Total 604 2 123 2 727 525 1 812 2 337

Agriculture 5 11 16 6 11 17

Law 31 145 176 105 60 165

Engineering 48 7 55 62 9 71

Medical Science 192 1 268 1 460 211 1 370 1 581

Pure and Applied Science 710 863 1 573 766 966 1 732

Social Science 1 056 2 902 3 958 1 119 2 755 3 874

Gender & Development Studies 0 0 0 0 1 1

Sub-Total 2 646 7 319 9 965 2 794 6 984 9 778

Certificate
Humanities and Education
Humanities 2 0 2 1 0 1
Sub-Total 2 0 2 1 0 1

Agriculture 3 3 6 0 0 0

Medical Science 0 0 0 0 0 0

Social Science 42 182 224 25 135 160

Sub-Total 47 185 232 26 135 161

Diplomas
Humanities and Education
Humanities 7 9 16 4 2 6
Education 13 13 26 0 0 0
Centre for Development for Gender Studies 0 0 0 0 0 0
Social Science 4 26 30 9 25 34
Sub-Total 24 48 72 13 27 40

Advanced Diplomas

Humanities and Education

Humanities 0 0 0 0 0 0
Education 4 20 24 2 15 17
Engineering 2 1 3 0 0 0
Pure and Applied Science 6 8 14 7 6 13
Social Science 1 4 5 1 3 4
Law 0 1 1
Sub-Total 13 34 47 10 24 34

Higher Degree

Humanities and Education

Humanities 123 343 466 94 374 468
Education 69 288 357 70 299 369
Engineering 18 10 28 0
Agriculture 5 2 7 0
Pure and Applied Science 189 185 374 176 195 371
Law 4 11 15 3 16 19
Medical Science 119 287 406 110 317 427
Social Science 451 833 1 284 429 892 1 321
Centre for Development for Gender Studies 3 24 27 2 20 22
Graduate Studies 4 5 9 2 1 3
Sub-Total 985 1 988 2 973 886 2 114 3 000

TOTAL 3 715 9 574 13 289 3 730 9 284 13 014

Note: Special Admittance Diploma - 131 students were given special admittance to various faculties
Source: University of the West Indies

higher degrees, enrolment stood at 3 000 compared to 2 973
students in 2008. The Faculty of Social Sciences accounted for
44.2 per cent of those registered for higher degrees, followed by
Medicine (14.3 per cent) and Pure and Applied Science (12.4 per
cent).
Total output of Jamaican students37 from the UWI declined by
9.0 per cent to 2 936 (76.9 per cent females) in 2008/09.
Undergraduate degrees accounted for 71.2 per cent, and higher
degrees for 25.2 per cent, while diplomas and certificates together
represented 3.6 per cent. The top three areas of study among
undergraduates were the B.Sc. in Nursing with 210 persons; B.Sc
in Management Studies (Accounting) 98 persons; B.Sc in
Medicine and Surgery 63 persons. At the higher degree level, the
greatest representation came from the MSc. in Management
Information System, 55; M.Sc. in Accounting, 48; MBA in
Banking and Finance with 41; and the M.Ed Educational
Administration, 31.
University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech)
During the review period, the focus at UTech was on
improving quality through the introduction of new demand
programmes, expansion and upgrading of the facilities,
professional development of staff, and improved financial
sustainability
Major developments were:
– The establishment of the Faculty of Law;
– Reorganization of the Faculty of Health and Sciences into
the College of Health Sciences, and the Faculty of Science
and Sports;
– Launch of the Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistics;
– Commencement of the Bachelor of Pharmacy franchise
with the College of the Bahamas with a cohort of 24 stu-
dents;
– Launch of the UTech/EXED Bachelor of Science in Nurs-
ing completion course with a cohort of 33 students;
– Establishment of a Department of Nursing Unit at the
Barnett’s Clinic Campus in Montego Bay;
– Collaboration with the Jamaica Football Federation in of-
fering a Coaching Course with 52 participants;
– New Associate Degree in Technical and Vocational
Teaching offered using blended modalities to students in
Grenada.
Articulation
In collaboration with Faculties, the curricular activities under
institutional agreements were as follows:
– Delivery of UTech’s Bachelor of Pharmacy with the col-
lege of the Bahamas
– Articulation of Associate Degrees done at the University
College of the Caribbean into UTech’s Bachelors’ de-
grees.
37 Undergraduate and post-graduate students in the three campuses.
22.27
– Work on the Two Plus Two Associate Degree Pro-
ject in the areas of Social Sciences, Natural Sci-
ences, and Technology continued with the External
Relations, Inter & Intra-Institutional Collaboration
(ERIIC) Unit at UWI, Mona.
Accreditation
During the review period the BSc. degree in Land
Economy and Valuation was accredited, while the BBA (all
specializations) was re-accredited by the University Council
of Jamaica (UCJ).
Prior Learning Assessment
Some 70 students matriculated during 2008/09 using
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) compared to 43 accepted
in the previous academic year. This number included several
graduate level students. In addition, the University had its
first graduate who matriculated using the PLA process,
completing a degree in Computing and Information
Technology.
New Courses of Study
A new General Management major was introduced to the
BBA degree offered by the School of Business
Administration in the Faculty of Business and Management.
The new full-time course of studies, the BSc. in
Computer Science (BSCS) and the part-time Bachelor in
Computer Science commenced with 159 students and 100
students respectively. The School of Engineering launched a
new Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering with
options in Manufacturing and Engineering Management.
The Bachelor of Electrical Engineering-Computing Option
was also launched, for students entering their third year of
study. In the Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, the
BA (Communication Arts & Technology) delivered in
collaboration with the Media & Technology Institute at the
Creative Production & Training Centre (CPTC was
launched.
The School of Engineering collaborated with the UWI,
(St. Augustine) and the University of Puerto Rico towards
the development of a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil
Engineering. The School partnered with the College of
Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) and the
Ministry of Agriculture to develop a new Bachelor of
Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
The UTech Enhancement Project
The two main components of the UTech Enhancement
Project are construction and institutional strengthening.
Civil works include blocks of classrooms and lecture
theatres, expansion to the School of Hospitality & Tourism
Management, a new administration building, new offices for
the School of Business Administration, upgrading of
laboratories and the electrical distribution systems and
installation of a standby power system.
The institutional component provided for consultancies
in the following areas: ICT; academic quality audit; income
 22.28

TABLE 22.15
ENROLMENT & GRADUATION AT UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, JAMAICA
BY SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT, 2007/08-2008/09

School/Department No. Enrolled No. Graduated No. Enrolled No. Graduated

2007 -2008 2007 -2008 2008 -2009 2008-2009
Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
Faculty of the Built Environment
Caribbean School of Architecture 118 74 192 29 23 52 114 73 187 3 3 6
School of Building and Land Mgt 607 217 824 161 57 218 661 222 883 203 78 281
Faculty of Business and Management
School of Business Administration 1 226 2 601 3 827 139 370 509 1 493 3 104 4 597 199 460 659
School of Hospitality and Tourism Mgt 93 545 638 6 67 73 113 604 717 5 51 56
Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies
School of Technical & Vocational Education 329 654 983 111 245 356 422 702 1 124 96 203 299
Faculty of Engineering and Computing
School of Computing & Information 877 390 1 267 152 80 232 962 399 1 361 228 101 329
Technology
School of Engineering 895 95 990 219 27 246 935 107 1 042 105 12 117
Faculty of Health and Applied Science
School of Pharmacy and Health Science 128 723 851 21 161 182 68 229 297 18 52 70
Dept of Science and Mathematics 76 77 153 14 15 29 145 738 883 25 165 190
Faculty of Law 56 80 136
Faculty of Sports and Science 15 17 32

TOTAL 4 349 5 376 9 725 852 1 045 1 897 4 913 6 178 11 227 897 1 125 2 039

Source: University of Technology, Jamaica

diversification strategies; market needs analysis; human resource enrolled in public and private sector teacher training
management and enhancement of the quality of learning and institutions/departments. The number of graduates was 3
teaching. 233 (80.7 per cent female).

Enrolment and Graduation
Enrolment for all programmes in full time and part-time
studies, including Associate, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees,
increased by 14.0 per cent to 11 227 (55.0 per cent females) (Table
22.15) The School of Business Administration recorded the
highest enrolment of students with 4 597 accounting for 41.4 per
cent, followed by the School of Computing and Information
Technology with 1 361, 12.1 per cent of the student population.
The number of graduates increased by 7.5 per cent to 2
039 (55.2 per cent female). The Schools with the largest number of
graduates were Business Administration, 659 (69.8 per cent
females); School of Technical and Vocational Education, 299
(67.8 per cent females); School of Computing and Information
Technology, 329 (69.3 per cent male); and School Building and
Land Management, 281 (72.2 per cent male). (See Table 22.15)
Teacher Training Institutions
Teacher education was provided by nine public institutions38;
the education departments at the three universities; The Vocational
Training Development Institute (HEART/Trust NTA) and the
College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE). Available
data showed that some 13 203 students (75.5 per cent female) were
Church Teachers’ College had 484 students enrolled
(88.0 per cent female) and 166 students graduated. At
Bethlehem Moravian College, some 639 students were
enrolled (88.3 per cent female) and 171 students (91.2 per
cent female) graduated. Moneague College had some 370
students enrolled in teacher training programmes with 128
graduating
The Edna Manley College of the Visual and
Performing Arts had 473 students enrolled (53.5 per cent
female) and 119 students graduated (52.9 per cent female).
The G.C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport
had 563 students enrolled (52.2 per cent male) and 186
students graduated.
At the Mico University College, the academic year
2008/09 saw the start of the 4-year degree programmes, the
Pre-University Men’s Programme (PUMP) and the
Pre-University Early Childhood Education. The PUMP was
started to increase the number of males in the education
system. It was observed that a number of males did not have
the requisite subjects to access tertiary education.
Additionally, the Pre-University ECE programme was
initiated to aid teachers at the Basic School level to improve
their qualification and to move on to the 4-year programme.
Several post-diploma programmes were added: namely,

38 The nine public institutions are the Bethlehem Moravian College, Church Teachers’ College, Edna Manley College of the Visual
and Performing Arts, G.C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport, Mico University College, Moneague College,
Shortwood Teachers’ College, College of Agriculture, Science and Education, Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College and St. Joseph’s
Teachers’ College

Family and Consumer Science, Early Childhood Education and
Special Education39. At the graduate level, the Executive Masters
in Science degree in Educational Management (EMEM)
commenced. This is a joint programme with the Mona School of
Business/UWI.
In 2008/2009 the Diploma programmes (Secondary, Advance
Placement, Primary, Police Science) offered by the Joint Board of
Teacher Education (JBTE) were discontinued.
Some 1 468 students were enrolled (84.6 per cent female) and
585 students (81.4 per cent female) graduated in 2009 at Mico.
At Shortwood Teachers’ College all academic programmes
continued including the Diploma Programme offered in Grenada
and the undergraduate degree programme offered through the
Consortium of Institutions for Teacher Education (CITE), which
had its first graduation in October 2008. The Master of Arts in
ECE which was offered in collaboration with the University of
South Florida enrolled a fourth cohort (24 students, all females).
The Department of Human Ecology was accredited by the Joint
Board of Teacher Education (JBTE), giving it more autonomy in
the management of its programme.
The College received a major boost in its programme of
Environmental Education for Sustainable Development when it
received a combined grant of $2 million from Environment
Foundation of Jamaica and Global Environment Facility (Small
Grants Programme) towards making the College a Green
Community.
The College began implementing of a $14.0 million project to
provide professional support to 12 Basic Schools and Infant
Departments under the GOJ/CDB Enhancement of Basic Schools
Project (EBSP). The project involves training and providing
materials to college lecturers, education officers, school
management teams, resource centre managers, and classroom
teachers. The number of students enrolled was 596 (92.3 per cent
female) and there were 175 graduates.
There was a total enrolment of 831 students at Sam Sharpe
Teachers’ College and 184 students graduated (92.4 per cent
female). Primary Education had enrolment of 310 students
full-time (90.7 per cent female) and 75 students part-time (91.2 per
cent female); and there were 61 students (88.5 per cent female) in
the Guidance and Counselling Programme. In Early Childhood
162 students (99.4 per cent female) were enrolled. For the Special
Education programme there were 68 students (nine males). There
were 31 Students enrolled in the first year Secondary Education
Programme (Teaching of English) and 19 in the Primary Spanish
Programme.
In partnership with the Central Connecticut State University
Master’s Programmes a cohort of 70 students was enrolled in the
Master’s in Educational Leadership and 37 students in the
Master’s in Literacy Studies. The CITE evening part time
programme continued with 68 students enrolled in four
programmes: School Counselling, Special Education, Primary
Education and Early Childhood Education. The Ministry of
Industry, Commerce and Investment in collaboration with the
MOE under the E-Learning (e-LJam) Project provided the
College with two newly furnished and equipped computer
39 The UWI/Mico Programme was discontinued.
40 The Department of Liberal Studies began delivering the BA (Communication Arts & Technology) degree 2009. It also delivers
university courses and electives to students in all faculties.
22.29
laboratories for students and one computer laboratory for the
faculty.
St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College, graduated its first
cohort from the CITE programme. It offered the Bachelors
of Education (BEd) degrees in Early Childhood as well as in
Primary Education for the first time. St. Josephs had 707
students (97.2 per cent female) enrolled with 178 graduating
(3.9 per cent males).
The Vocational Training Development Institute
(VTDI) is a tertiary level institution of the HEART
Trust/NTA. It is a professional staff development centre with
responsibility to develop technical and vocational education
and training (TVET) instructors, managers and technicians.
Enrolment was 2 001 students (52.7 per cent female), while,
output was 773 students (52.6 female).
At the College of Agriculture, Science and Education
(CASE), some 951 students were enrolled in the Education,
Agricultural and Science programmes. There were 602
(77.7 per cent female) in the Faculty of Education, 292 (51.3
per cent female) in Agriculture and 57 (63.1 per cent female)
in Science. The number of students graduating was 304
(71.6 per cent female).
Nursing Education
Available data indicate that 900 students were enrolled in
all Nursing programmes in nine training institutions and 501
four graduated40 (males). Training for enrolled assistant
nurses was offered at Knox Community College, where a
total of 26 students were enrolled.
At the UWI School of Nursing, Mona (formerly the
Department of Nursing Education), 148 students were
enrolled in the BScN (generic) programme, and 51 students
in the BScN (Post RN) for registered nurses. In the MScN
programmes in Nursing Education, 37 students were
enrolled. There were five in Nursing Administration, six in
the Family Nurse Practitioner Programme, six in the Mental
Health Nurse Practitioner Programme and one in the
Certified Nursing Practitioner Programme. A total of 103
students graduated from the BScN (generic) programmes in
nursing, 12 in BScN (Post RN), and five students from the
MScN programme.
The Dental Auxiliary School provided training for
dental nurses, dental laboratory technicians, dental hygiene
nurses and dental assistants. A total of 39 students were
enrolled in the Dental Assisting, Dental Nursing, Dental
Laboratory Technology and, Dental Hygiene programmes
with eight graduating at the school. The school completed
the transfer of the training programmes from the Ministry of
Health to the MOE with the receiving institution being
confirmed as the UTech, Jamaica. The Dental Auxiliary
School collaborated with the Ministry of Health for the
establishment of UTech’s School of Dental Sciences. The
programmes being offered through the School of Dental
Sciences at UTech were confirmed as Bachelors Degrees in
Dental Hygiene, Dental Laboratory Technology and Dental
 22.30
Nursing/Therapy, and the Dental Assisting programme will be
offered at the Diploma level.
The Dental Auxiliary School compound now facilitates the
Jamaica School of Radiation Therapy. The Jamaica School of
Radiation Therapy offered a one-year training programme for
Radiation Therapists, three months of which are held at the Dental
Auxiliary School.
Other Local Public Institutions:
The Caribbean Maritime Institute had a total enrolment of
673 students (77.4 per cent male) and 136 students (75.0 per cent
male) graduated.
The Caribbean Institute of Technology (CIT) provided
training in software and web page design and development,
computer information technology, and Cisco Certified
Networking. In FY 2008/09, 1 232 students (77.0 per cent male)
were enrolled and 703 students (18.1 per cent female) graduated.
The School of Physical Therapy (St. Andrew), introduced a
new a BSc. programme for Physical Therapy Clinicians. The total
number of students enrolled was 72 (80.6 per cent female) and 10
students graduated.
PRIVATE TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
Local Institutions
At the Northern Caribbean University (NCU) there were
major developments for the academic year 2008/2009:
– The University introduced the Associate of Science and
the Bachelors of Science in Crime Management.
– NCU was the recipient of a software grant from the
Siemens Corporation valued at US$118 286 164.00 or
approximately $10.7 Billion.
– The Northern Caribbean University Imagine Cup Team
(computer software engineering students) was the re-
gional champion and champion for the Americas.
– There was a significant increase in enrolment in the Nurs-
ing Programme. Enrolment in the programme currently
stands at 467 and increase of 75.0 per cent over the prior
year.
Enrolment and Graduation
Enrolment for all programmes at the NCU was 5 527 (77.7 per
cent female). There were 994 students enrolled in Business
Administration, which represents the highest enrolment of the
subject areas. Management Studies had the second highest
enrolment with 720, while Education was third with 619. A total of
1 111 students, representing all programmes, graduated. The
disciplines with the highest numbers of graduates were Business
and Administration, 203; Education, 179; and Management
Studies, 152.
University College of the Caribbean (UCC): UCC offers
professional training mainly in business-related courses including
Management Studies, Business Administration, Management
Information Systems, Accounting, Law and Human Resource
Management. The local UCC franchised programmes offered
Diplomas, Associate Degrees and Bachelors degrees in 21 areas.
The College also offered eight additional programmes at the
Baccalaureate and Master’s level in conjunction with overseas
universities. These institutions included the Florida International
University (FIU), the University of London and the
Commonwealth of Learning. The total number of students
enrolled was 3 188 (74.2 per cent female).
The University College of the Caribbean in consultation
with the Secretariat of the National Export Strategy (NES),
proposed the establishment of a Caribbean Knowledge City
(CKC), the first of its kind in the region. The proposed CKC
will become an incubator for applied research and
development and will provide the environment to drive new
national and regional business and technological innovation
and entrepreneurial expertise.
A total of six degree programmes offered by the
institution have now been accredited by the UCJ. They are:
– Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Resource
Management
– Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Adminis-
tration
– Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing
– Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Tech-
nology
– Associate Degree in Business Administration
– Associate Degree in Management Information Sys-
tems
The International University of the Caribbean had a
total number of 1 554 students (88.0 per cent female)
enrolled and 377 students (87.8 per cent) graduated.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica
had a total number of 4 698 students (72.1 per cent female)
enrolled and 199 students graduated.
The Catholic College of Mandeville offered two
programmes: the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) (primary)
and the Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) with
an enrolment of 653 students (95.1 per cent female) and 189
students graduating.
The Media Technology Institute (located at the
Creative Production & Training Centre, CPTC) had a total
number of 34 students (20.5 per cent female) enrolled and
the number of students graduating was 19.
St. Michael’s Theological College enrolled 248
students (72.2 per cent female) with 114 students
graduating.
Jamaica Theological Seminary enrolled 421 students
(74.3 per cent female) with 90 students (79.0 per cent
female) graduating.
Available data from the University Council of Jamaica
list the following Accredited Programmes:
– Florida International University/Institute of Man-
age ment Sciences (United States of America,
(USA) - Master of Business Administration(MBA);
EMBA and MSc in Curriculum & Evaluation
– Manchester Business School/Jamaica Institute of
Bankers (United Kingdom) - (MBA)
– Mount Saint Vincent University/JACAE –(Canada)
-Master of Education (MED) in Studies in Lifelong

Learning, formerly Adult Education; Bachelor of Educa-
tion (BED) in association with St. Joseph’s Teachers’
College; Bachelor of Education in association with the
College of Agriculture, Science and Education
– Nova Southeastern University (NSU) - U.S.A.- Master of
Business Administration(MBA); B.Sc. in Professional
Management; Master of Science in Human Resource
Management (M.Sc./HRM); M.Sc. in Instructional Tech-
nology and Distance Education; Ed.D. in Instructional
Technology and Distance Education; Master of Science in
Education with specializations in Teaching and Learning
and Exceptional Student Education (formerly Varying
Exceptionalities and/or Special Education) and B.Sc. in
Applied Professional Studies (Concentration in Teaching
and Learning), and Ed.D in Instructional Technology and
Distance
– Temple University /Church Teachers’ College (USA) -
Bachelor of Science in Education
– University of New Orleans (U.S.A.) - Master of Business
Administration (Executive MBA)
– University of South Florida (USF)/ Shortwood Teachers’
College (USA) - Masters in Early Childhood Education
– Eastern Connecticut State University/Hanover Education
Foundation (USA) - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and
Applied Social Relations
– University College Birmingham - Master of Science in
Hospitality with Tourism Management
– Caribbean Graduate School of Theology - Master of Arts
in Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Counselling
Psychology, Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
and Master of Divinity
– Central Connecticut State University/ Sam Sharpe Teach-
ers’ College - Master of Science in Educational Leader-
ship and Master of Science in Reading and Language Arts
– Institute for Theological and Leadership Development -
Bachelor of Education (Primary)
– Knox Community College - Associate Degree in Man-
agement Information Systems and Associate Degree in
Environmental Studies and Bachelor of Science in Envi-
ronmental Studies
– Management Institute for National Development - Asso-
ciate of Science Degree Human Resource Management
– Moneague College - Associate Degree in Business Stud-
ies, Associate Degree in Hospitality, Tourism Manage-
ment and Associate Degree in Management Information
Systems
– Montego Bay Community College - Associate Degree in
Architecture and Construction Technology
– University of Technology, Jamaica - Bachelor of Chemi-
cal Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Public Health
Nursing (Post-basic), Bachelor of Science in Environ-
mental Health and Bachelor of Science in Urban and Re-
gional Planning, Bachelor of Business Administration
– Vector Technology Institute - Associate Degree in Com-
puter Systems Technology
22.31
– Western Hospitality Institute - Bachelor of Science
in Hospitality Management (Degree Completion
Programme)
– College of Insurance & Professional Studies- the
Jamaica Insurance Diploma/Certificate
– Excelsior Community College- Associate degree in
Library & Technical Studies and Associate in Busi-
ness Studies
– Northern Caribbean University - Masters in Public
Health and M.Sc. in Biology
– University College of the Caribbean - BSc in Hu-
man Resource Management
– Vocational Training Development Institute - Di-
ploma in Education and Training
REGULATORY BODIES
University Council of Jamaica (UCJ),
The UCJ is the national body for assuring quality in
tertiary education in Jamaica. UCJ achieved its targets for
accreditation of programmes, registration of institutions, the
development of standards, and the assessment of
educational credentials. Regionally, the UCJ has assisted
with the mobility of Caribbean nationals under the CSME,
provided leadership to the Caribbean Area Network for
Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE) and
provided advice to new and emerging accreditation bodies in
the region including the Accreditation Council of Trinidad
and Tobago (ACTT) and the Barbados Accreditation
Council (BAC). The UCJ maintained its international
linkages while providing and receiving information on
quality assurance in tertiary education worldwide.
Nationally, the Council also continued to co-ordinate the
activities of the Joint Committee for Tertiary Education.
The highlight of the year’s activities was the celebration
of Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education Week under the
theme Transforming Tertiary Education: The Quality
Imperative.
Registration of institutions
The Missionaries of the Poor: Institute of Learning was
registered and the award of candidacy went to the Caribbean
Institute of Technology.
Monitoring Activities
The UCJ continued to monitor all accredited
programmes and registered institutions to ensure that they
conform to standards stipulated by the Council. In this
context, 172 higher education programmes were monitored
in 40 institutions as follows: two Doctoral degrees; 29
Masters degrees; 78 Bachelors degrees; 40 Associate
degrees; 18 diplomas; one Certificate and two Short
Courses. The UCJ continued its ongoing validation and
monitoring of UCJ Approved degrees.
Equivalence of Qualifications
The Council continued to function as the national
information centre for the assessment of equivalence of
qualifications. Qualifications were evaluated by the Council
 22.32
at the request of university and college admissions officers,
foreign credential assessment officers, private sector
organizations, professional organizations, government ministries
and agencies, students, and other individuals.
Approximately 60 foreign credentials were assessed for
determination of equivalencies ranging from high school
diplomas to graduate degrees. These credentials originated in
several countries including the United Kingdom, United States of
America, Colombia, Peru, Myanmar, Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda,
South Africa, India, Cuba. In addition, over 3 000 queries on the
accreditation status and equivalence of programmes of study at
tertiary institutions locally, regionally and internationally were
dealt with by the Council.
New Boards of Studies were considered for the development
of standards in the areas of Nursing, Guidance and Counselling,
English and Communication and Library Studies (Information
Literacy).
The Joint Committee for Tertiary Education (JCTE) hosted its
Eighteenth Annual Conference. Approximately 110 tertiary
educators and administrators attended the event.
Other Activities
The UCJ in October 2009 signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Professional Engineers Registration
Board (PERB). PERB is a statutory body created by the PERB Act
1987 with responsibility to register engineers and regulate the
practice of engineers.
Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica
The Council of Community Colleges of Jamaica is a statutory
agency with a mandate to supervise and coordinate the work of
eight Community and Multidisciplinary Colleges in Jamaica. The
Council comprises members of the Colleges, representatives from
other sectors of the tertiary and secondary education system, as
well as members of business and industry. The CCCJ along with
the network of Community Colleges continued to expand access
to tertiary education and to meet the needs of the communities in
which the Community Colleges are located. The Network
involves 19 campuses of five Community Colleges and three
multi-disciplinary institutions41.
The Council, through the network of Community Colleges
offered 2-year Associate Degrees in Business Studies;
Management Information Systems; Hospitality, and Tourism
Management; Environmental Studies; Electronics Engineering;
Library Technical Studies; Clothing and Fashion Studies;
Information Technology; Performing Arts; Computer
Applications in Business, Computer Servicing and Electronics
and Architectural and Construction Technology. It also offered
Bachelors Degrees, comprising an additional two years of study
after the Associate Degree level, in the following areas: Business
Studies; Management Information Systems; Hospitality and
Tourism Management; Environmental Studies. In addition to
these tertiary level programmes, the individual Community and
Multi-disciplinary Colleges also offered a wide range of
continuing education courses which include technical and
41 The eight institutions offering Bachelors and/or Associate Degrees are Bethlehem Moravian College, Brown’s Town Community
College, College of Agriculture, Science and Education, Excelsior Community College, Knox Community College, Moneague
College, Montego Bay Community College and Portmore Community College.
vocational courses, short practical skills-based courses, as
well as CSEC and CAPE classes, and leisure courses.
As a means of further expanding access, the Community
Colleges and the Council, with the assistance of the
Caribbean Knowledge and Learning network (CKLN)
developed the capability to offer distance and open
education courses through the use of Moodle learning
technology. Three courses were developed and will be
offered online in September 2010.
In an effort to improve the performance of students in its
introductory courses to Mathematics, the Council embarked
on a project to develop a methodology for teaching the
subject to students who are weak in Mathematics. This was
piloted at the Portmore Community College. At the end of
the pilot there was a 96.0 per cent pass rate and the project
was subsequently implemented in the other seven
Community Colleges and Multidisciplinary Institutions.
In view of the need to ensure that a greater percentage of
the workforce is trained and certified, the CCCJ
implemented two initiatives:
a. the introduction of a January intake
b. advance use of Accreditation for Prior Learning.
This means that persons 25 years and older, with a
minimum of five years relevant working experience
can submit a portfolio for assessment to either ma-
triculate or gain advanced placement in any ap-
proved programme of study.
Preparation which began on major initiatives for the next
academic year included development of various technical
applied associate degrees, directly in response to the
introduction of the Career Advancement Programme (CAP)
in Secondary Schools and the need to offer further training
opportunities to graduates with the Level II Certification
from HEART Trust/NTA. Another major initiative will see
the CCCJ introducing a new programme to increase the
number of males entering and completing programmes of
study in the higher education system.
IN-SERVICE TRAINING
To date, information received from four major
private/public sector companies revealed that 1 968 staff
(73.0 per cent female) received training in areas such as
Management and Administration, Computing, Banking,
Financial Management and Accounting, Customer
Relations and Supervisory Management . The companies
reported that they expended an average of 6.4 per cent of
their overall budget on training.
Management Institute for National Development
(MIND)
MIND is the Government of Jamaica’s public service
leadership development and management training institute.
The Institute, which serves the Caribbean celebrated its 10th
anniversary. The major highlight of the year was the
Institute’s 10th Anniversary Conference, themed

Leadership Development: A Vehicle for Public Sector
Modernisation, which was hosted as an international collaborative
event in March 2009.
Partnerships & Collaborations
MIND developed partnerships and collaborations with a
number of stakeholder organisations and individuals. Some of the
partners included the Governments of Cyprus, Namibia, Trinidad
and Tobago, the Canadian School of the Public Service and the
PIOJ.
The Institute introduced 19 new scheduled and customised
courses. In its core programmes, there were 5 332 students
enrolled (76.7 Female). The largest number in Accounts and
Auditing with 1 194 students; followed by Customer Service with;
Secretarial/ Administrative, 796; Management and Leadership
with 753; and Human Resource Development, 631. There was
also an over 100.0 per cent increase in enrolment in the online
Associate Degree in Management Studies programme. A total of 4
909 students graduated.
OUTLOOK
The Career Advancement Programme (CAP) which has been
developed and is being piloted in 11 schools should improve on
the quality of secondary school graduates. The programme makes
provision for young people up to age 18 to be attached to an
institution to acquire the necessary skills and competencies for
self-enhancement.
There should also be some improvement in the quality of
performance of students at CSEC as a result of the GOJ’s policy
shift regarding the payment of external examination fees for
22.33
secondary students. The previous policy entailed the
payment of fees for select subjects for all students registered.
The new policy will be a reimbursement of examination fees
for select subjects, conditional on satisfactory performance
in the examination. It is anticipated that this policy will act
as an incentive to students to perform better at the regional
examinations and will rationalize GOJ’s expenditure on this
activity.
The GOJ’s Competency Based Transitional Programme
is expected to impact positively on the quality of graduates
from the Primary education system and ultimately the
quality of workers in the labour market. This development
will be supported by the new accountability programme for
literacy which involves stakeholders collaborating with
schools to meet pre-determined literacy standards.
The work to modernize and transform the education
system will continue with the implementation of the GOJ’s
Vision 2030 Education Sector Plan through Thematic
Working Groups and the integration of the Sector Plan into
the Corporate and Operational Plan of Ministries,
Departments and Agencies. In addition, the MOE began
working on the development of its first National Strategic
Education Plan which will lay the foundation for the
operationalization of the transformation of Education sector.
The GOJ and the CCCJ began discussions with the
Association of Community Colleges of Canada (ACCC)
regarding an Education for Employment (EFE) Project as
part of an initiative by the Canadian Government towards
enhanced human capital formation and institutional
strengthening within CARICOM Countries.n
CHAPTER 23
HEALTH
INTRODUCTION
P erformance in the Health sector is examined in the context of
the strategic policy objectives of the government for this
sector, especially improvement in public health care provisioning,
and engendering a healthy, productive population. Specific out-
comes in relation to these objectives included improving access to
health care, particularly for the most vulnerable, and improved de-
livery of health services.
The Government’s thrust in the Health sector was marked by
the sustained initiative to remove user fees at public health
institutions thereby bringing health care within the reach of over
20.0 per cent of Jamaicans who previously reported an illness but
could not afford treatment1. Data from the Ministry of Health
(MOH) indicate that approximately 65.0 per cent of those seeking
care from the public facilities are from the poorest quintile.
The abolition of user fees in public institutions resulted in an
increase in the number of patients attending public clinics and
hospitals seeking care, and as a result, the question of the sector’s
ability to cope with the demand became an issue. There were also
concerns that the quality of care would be undermined by the
absence of the infrastructure to meet this demand.
As part of the ongoing reform of the public health sector, the
Government took steps to strengthen the monitoring role of the
MOH and to hold the Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) more
accountable. Towards this end there was also the move to establish
a direct reporting relationship between Regional Directors and the
Permanent Secretary.
The launch of the National Surveillance and Management
System for contagious diseases will support health workers to
better monitor and deal with outbreaks of contagious diseases.
This came at a time when the health sector was dealing with the
outbreak of the influenza, a H1N1 virus and therefore provided an
opportunity for testing the system in a real situation. Effective
management of H1N1 and other infectious diseases is highly
dependent on the strength of the Ministry’s surveillance system
and how data on the various diseases are collected, reported and
analyzed.
The Ministry of Health, supported by funding from the Pan
American Health Organization (PAHO), launched the Human
Resources in Health (HRH) project, aimed at addressing the
critical shortage of health care workers and creating a needs-based
workforce. A steering committee to guide the project planning
process was established. The HRH initiative will be piloted in the
South East Regional Health Authority as this region adequately
reflects the spectrum of health workers in the sector. When the
pilot has been completed, the project will be rolled out to the other
Health Regions.
FINANCING
The Health sector continued to be financed primarily
from the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) budget. GOJ
a l lo c a ti o n s w er e s u p p le me n t ed b y in p u t s f r o m
non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international
development partners (IDPs).
Government Budgetary allocation to the Sector for the
Financial Year (FY) 2009/10 was estimated at $30.2 billion,
a nominal increase of 2.2 per cent compared with the revised
estimates for the FY 2008/09 (Table 23.1a). Approved
estimates for recurrent expenditure for Health Service
Delivery amounted to $24.6 billion, compared with $23.8
billon for the FY 2008/09. Increases were provided to all the
RHAs for the 2009/10 Financial Year. (Table 23.1b).
The Capital A Budget was $410.0 million, compared
with $89.5 million in the revised estimates for FY2008/09.
Capital B was $713.5 million compared with $968.2 million
in 2008/09 (Table 23.1b).
PERFORMANCE
General Health Status
Experts in the mental health field raised concerns about
the effects of mental trauma, and focused on the response of
the state to address the issue. They noted that the high levels
of homicide, abuse of children, and other acts of criminality
in Jamaica were possible side effects of high levels of stress.
The situation had affected children who themselves began to
exhibit anti-social behavior due to their continued exposure
to high levels of crime and violence. The growing stress
issues were linked to unemployment and disruption of
families with both the young and old being affected. A
greater alliance among the state, stakeholders and the
experts was suggested as a way of improving mental health
in the population.
Jamaica’s ports of entry were put on alert as a preventive
measure against the threat of the H1N1 virus, which
emerged early in the year. By June 2009 there were 32
confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus with over 25.0 per cent of
these cases being transmitted locally. By July there was one
confirmed death from the virus. The affected parishes were
Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Catherine, St. Mary, Trelawny,
St. James, Westmoreland and Manchester.
The outbreak of malaria which was reported in the
Caymanas and Gregory Park areas of St. Catherine in late
2008 was brought under control by the end of January 2009.
After initial difficulties, the MOH was able to get the
cooperation of residents in testing for the disease and to
 23.2

TABLE 23.1a
MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND ITS DEPARTMENTS
RECURRENT AND CAPITAL BUDGETS BY PROGRAMME, 2008/09-2009/010
($'000)
FUNCTIONS REVISED
ESTIMATES ESTIMATES
2009/10 2008/09
RECURRENT

Social Security and Welfare

Prevention & Control of Drug Abuse 87 650 61 800
Total Social Security & Welfare 87 650 61 800

Health Affairs & Services

Executive Direction & Administration 1 042 401 1 239 726
Training 299 274 310 651
Regional & International Cooperation 91 000 91 000
Disaster Management 54 851 48 021
Early Childhood Development 17 500
Health Services Support 568 493 566 515
Family Planning 72 305 69 879
Heath Service Delivery 24 572 906 23 756 928
Total Health Affairs and Services 26 718 730 26 082 720
Total Recurrent 26 806 380 26 160 015
Less Appropriation in Aid -
Net Recurrent 26 806 380 26 160 015

DEPARTMENTS
Registrar General's Department and Island Record Office - 39 000
Bellevue Hospital 902 100 950 631
Government Chemist 22 795 24 914
Child Development Agency 1 365 444 1 333 821

Total Ministry of Health and Departments 29 096 719 28 508 381

CAPITAL A
Other General Government Services
National Identification System 77 100 7 033
Total General Government Services 77 100 7 033

Social Security & Welfare Services

Family Services 11 000 11 000
Prevention & Control of Drug Abuse 4 200 2 820
Total - Social Security & Welfare Services 15 200 13 820

Health Affairs & Services

Health Services Support 20 400 6 948

Health Services Delivery 297 300 61 762
Total Health Affairs and Services 317 700 68 710
Total Capital A 410 000 89 563
CAPITAL B
Social Security & Welfare Services
Family Services
Prevention and Control of Drug Abuse
Total Social Security & Welfare Services
Health Affairs & Services
Health Services Support 713 482 968 166
Health Services Delivery
Total Health Affairs and Services 713 482 968 166

Total Capital B 713 482 968 166

Total Capital A & B 1 123 482 1 057 729

Recurrent and Capital 30 220 201 29 566 118

Source: Estimates of Expenditure 2009/10


TABLE 23.1b
MINISTRY OF HEALTH RECURRENT BUDGET
BY REGION, 2008/09 and 2009/10
($'000)
REGIONAL
HEALTH AUTHORITY
South East Region
North East Region
Western Region
Southern Region
University Hospital of the West Indies
St. Joseph's Hospital
TOTAL
identify and control six breeding sites of the carrier mosquito in
the area.
There was an outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease
(HFMD) in at least one preparatory school in the Corporate Area.
Six students were affected at this school. The Ministry of Health
subsequently inspected all kindergarten, primary and preparatory
schools in an effort to ensure that these institutions adhered to a
proper regime of hygiene and sanitation. HFMD is a viral illness
common in infants and children. Symptoms include fever,
blister-like eruptions on the tongue, inside the cheek and on the
skin.
Health Facilities
Health services in the public sector were provided through a
network of 24 hospitals, including five specialist institutions and
348 health centres, managed by the four RHAs (Table 23.2).
Ambulatory care was delivered through Type I to Type V health
centres. In-patient and out-patient care were provided through the
hospitals classified as Types A, B, C, and the Specialist Care
Institutions. Type A hospitals offer the greatest mix of services,
followed by Type B, and Type C offers a limited mix.
Regional Health Authorities (RHAs)
The RHAs have responsibility for the management and
delivery of public health care and for the status of public health in
the respective Regions and are led by Boards of Directors. During
the review period, the authorities provided direction and
administrative support for health services; strengthened
programme planning and conducted performance reviews in the
respective Regions. Service in each Region was delivered within
the framework of a Service Level Agreement, that is, primary and
secondary services, and a five year Strategic Plan.
Data was only received from the Western Regional Health
Authority (WRHA), and as such only this regional health
authority is reported on.
23.3
ESTIMATES 2009/10 REVISED ESTIMATES 2008/09
9 359 094 9 195 400
3 107 880 3 095 121
4 476 210 4 384 256
4 048 722 3 957 366
3 416 000 3 124 785
120 000
24 572 906 23 756 928
Source: Estimates of Expenditure 2009/10
Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA)
This Regional Health Authority has the mandate to
deliver health care for the parishes of Westmoreland,
Hanover, St. James and Trelawny.
In regards to chronic non-communicable diseases,
specifically diabetes, the region was able to improve the
level of control among 44.1 per cent of patients attending
primary care facilities compared with 47.0 per cent in 2008.
The region also aimed to improve the assessment of glucose
among public sector patients with diabetes by offering them
free HbA1c testing kits. While some testing was done, this
was hampered by periodic shortage of reagents. Regarding
hypertension, there was not much difference in the level of
blood pressure control among patients attending primary
care health facilities, approximately 41.5 per cent of patients
maintained control, compared with 41.6 per cent for the
same period in 2008.
The target of 9 000 females aged 25-54 years who did
pap smears was surpassed with the total being 10 252. The
overall number of pap smears done for all age groups
increased by 36.1 per cent to 16, 028 compared with 11 776
done the previous year.
In the area of Family and Child Health, the region
exceeded the target of 74.0 per cent for post natal attendees
who accepted a contraceptive method and achieved 81.4 per
cent acceptance. Dual method usage was 91.4 per cent.
Immunization coverage for the region was BCG- 94.7
per cent; OPV- 91.5 per cent; DPT/DT – 91.8 per cent; HIB –
91.5 per cent; Hep B- 91.8 per cent; and MMR – 94.0 per
cent.
In this Region it was reported that 77.9 per cent of HIV
infected women attending high risk clinics were counselled
at the Cornwall Regional and Spanish Town Hospitals.
Some 133 Persons Living with HIV/AIDS received
counselling with 59.0 per cent of them coming from
Westmoreland and 41.0 per cent from St. James. These
numbers do not include women attending antenatal clinics.
 23.4

TABLE 23.2
NETWORK OF SERVICES DELIVERY FACILITIES, 2009

REGIONAL HEALTH PARISHES FACILITIES POPULATION TOTAL TOTAL DIS-

AUTHORITIES ADMIS- CHARGES
SIONS (Including
deaths)
Health Hospitals
Centres
South East Region Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Thomas, St. Catherine 90 11 1 261 900 38 320 37 943
North East Region Portland, St. Mary, St. Ann 82 4 370 800 13 858 13 824
Western Region Trelawny, St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland 82 4 476 100 16 588 16 562
Southern Region St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon 94 5 590 000 16 324 16 511

TOTAL 348 24 2 698 800 93 214 92 829

Note: Admission and Discharges are for January to June

Note: End of year population figures are used

Source: Ministry of Health and the Environment and the Statistical Institute of Jamaica

Exclusive breastfeeding stood at 50.2 per cent and partial
breastfeeding was 45.8 per cent at six weeks in the Region. The
corresponding breastfeeding rates at 12 weeks were 39.4 per cent
and 55.1 per cent, respectively. The report from the Region
pointed to the reluctance of mothers to breastfeed and also the lack
of support for breastfeeding by some health care workers.
Ambulatory Care1
Data received from the MOH for the period January to June
indicate that 947 381 visits were made to the island’s health
centres in 2009 compared with 852 005 for the corresponding
period the previous year. This represents an increase of
approximately 11.1 per cent. Visits for curative services accounted
for approximately 51.8 per cent of all visits; those to child health
clinics accounted for 14.7 per cent; to family planning
services,14.3 per cent; for dental services, 10.5 per cent; visits and
to antenatal and post natal services, 8.7 per cent. This share of
attendance for curative services has been consistent over the
last five years.
Diseases of the respiratory tract were the leading cause
for visits to curative services followed by hypertension and
then diseases of the skin (Table 23.3). Hypertension and
Diabetes were the two major chronic illnesses that appear
within the top ten for visits for curative services. The number
of cases of hypertension recorded during the year represents
a 16.3 per cent increase compared to the same period the
previous year. Females accounted for approximately 77.0
per cent of the cases of hypertension and 74.0 per cent of
cases of diabetes. This is a similar pattern to that observed
over the last five years.
In-Patient Care2
The mean bed complement was 4 538, while bed
occupancy was 67.5 per cent. There were 92 829 in-patient

TABLE 23.3
CURATIVE VISITS TO PRIMARY HEALTH CARE FACILITIES BY LEADING
CONDITIONS AND REGION, PUBLIC HEALTH SECTOR, 2009 (Jan- June)

No. of Visits and Percentage of Total Visits by Region & Jamaica

DIAGNOSIS South East North East Western Southern Jamaica

No. Visits No. Visits No. Visits No. Visits No. Visits % of Top 6 visits
Diseases of the Respiratory Tract 53 301 12 965 12 046 16 369 95 201 25.8
Hypertension 33 184 13 821 16 262 19 126 82 893 22.4
Skin Disease 31 309 11 344 10 363 12 467 65 483 17.7
Genito- Urinary Diseases (including STD) 37 614 8 568 8 631 10 357 64 170 17.4
Musculoskeletal 13 848 6 847 6 957 8 005 35 657 9.6
Psychiatry 12 567 3 615 5 244 4 622 26 048 7.1

TOTAL 181 823 57 160 59 503 70 946 369 452 100.0

Source: Ministry of Health and Environment

1 Represents provisional data from the MOH for the period January to June 2009
2 Represents provisional data from the MOH for the period January to June 2009
 23.5

discharges and the death rate per 100 discharges was 3.9. Casualty
recorded 493 734 visits over ther period January to June. There
were approximately 17 536 births recorded for the same period
(Table 23.4) in public health facilities. The average length of stay
in public hospitals was 5.7 days, largely the same for the past three
years.
Support Care Programmes
Health Corporation Limited (HCL)
The mission of HCL is to procure, warehouse and distribute
pharmaceuticals and medical supplies of the highest quality and
the lowest cost to help improve the health status of Jamaicans.
With the introduction of free health care at public hospitals and
public health centres, a record–breaking number of persons
attended the ten Drug Serv Pharmacies islandwide. Drug Serv
pharmacies are HCL retail outlets operated under the Drug Serv
programme to provide subsidized drugs to the public. As a result
of the increased demand, an additional 58 pharma cists were
recruited on contract during the period April 1 2008 to December
31, 2009.
The Waste Management Project, which promotes proper
disposal of pharmaceutical waste as well as the generation of
additional revenue for HCL, continued during the year. A wet
scrubber system was acquired and installed by the HCL and an
emission test completed in fulfillment of the requirements of the
National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA).
Nutrition Unit
The mandate of this unit is to guide policy makers, provide
technical direction for Regional Health Authorities regarding
policy implementation, and monitor and evaluate programmes
relating to nutrition and dietetics. The unit along with the Ministry
of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Caribbean Food and Nutrition
Institute (CFNI), continued development of the Food and
Nutrition Policy.
As preparation for implementation of the Food Based Dietary
Guidelines, members staff of the Nutrition Unit were trained to
conduct household trials and feasibility testing, as well as in Focus
Group Methodology. They were also trained for interpretation
and report writing in preparation for field testing the eight
messages that are to be communicated in the Guidelines.
A total of 52 stakeholders participated in a multi-sectoral
consultation on the Infant and Young Child Feeding
Policy. The group included producers and distributors of
breast milk substitutes. Participants were given current
information on the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in
Jamaica, the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk
Substitutes, the role of the National Infant and Young Child
Feeding Committee and the rationale for and content of the
draft Infant and Young Child Feeding Policy.
With funding from UNICEF, the Unit conducted an
initial field test of 20 draft Nutritional Standards of Care for
the nutritional management of common conditions. Drafts
of the completed standards were submitted to PAHO for
technical review.
During the year the Unit participated in a variety of other
activities. These included the Schools’ Nutrition Quiz
Competition, Caribbean Wellness Day, National
Breastfeeding Week, and nutrition education seminars for
food handlers. Activities relating to nutrition in the Diabetes
Quality of Care Improvement Programme, were coordinated
in six of seven pilot sites across the island.
A pilot project on exclusive breast-feeding for the
parishes of Clarendon and St. Catherine started with
extensive re-training of more than 150 health care workers
and the formation of support groups at the community level.
Baseline data collected on the knowledge, attitude and
practices of the health workers in the selected parishes
pointed to areas needing improvement and proposed
corrective measures. Implementation of the project is
planned for two years at the end of which breast-feeding
rates is targeted to increase by 5.0 per cent.
A nutrition surveillance pilot project was initiated in 10
health centres in Kingston & St. Andrew. The project is
geared at improving the information collected to guide
policy decisions and the development of programmes for
improving the nutritional status of children below five years
of age. As part of the project, a new tool was developed to
capture data on dietary diversity, and breast feeding up to
two years, as well as to monitor intake of Vitamins A and C,
and iron. This data-gathering tool will also capture the
adequacy and appropriateness of complementary foods and
the timing of their introduction to infants. The project

TABLE 23.4
INDICATORS OF UTILIZATION OF ACUTE SECONDARY CARE
FACILITIES IN THE PUBLIC HEALTH SECTOR, 2005- 2009

INDICATOR 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Mean Bed Complement 4 629 4 846 4 207 3 896 4 538
In-patient Discharges 174 218 172 697 147 775 190 505 92 829
Bed Occupancy (%) 54.6 56.6 60.9 72.3 67.5
Average Length of Stay (days) 5.6 5.7 5.6 5.5 5.7
Annual Turnover Rate (mean %) 37.3 35.6 34.7 48.4 20.3
Death Rate Per 100 Discharges 4.3 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.9
Deliveries 42 620 39 352 31 894 40 174 17 536
Out-Patient Visits 477 198 481 829 403 331 554 400 294 858
Casualty Attendance 680 898 715 707 627 578 864 044 493 734
Pharmacy (patients seen) 492 083 514 095 461 759 684 909 438 523
Pharmacy Items Dispensed 1 101 927 1 167 287 1 123 033 1 757 589 1 114 787

NB. 2009 figures are for the period January to June

Source: Ministry of Health and Environment
 23.6

TABLE 23.5
PHARMACY SERVICES AT PUBLIC HEALTH CENTRES
BY REGION AND PARISH, Jan - June 2009

Number of Items Items No. of Items

REGION/PARISH Patients Prescribed Dispensed Out of Stock

TOTAL JAMAICA 141 768 467 255 359 590 81 326

SOUTH EAST 44 012 149 170 104 839 35 612
Kingston & St. Andrew 39 418 134 682 97 484 33 447
St. Thomas 0 0 0 0
St. Catherine 4 594 14 488 7 355 2 165
NORTH EAST 34 795 102 892 94 943 7 191
Portland 10 364 35 161 33 070 2 091
St. Mary 6 921 22 218 19 973 54
St. Ann 17 510 45 513 41 900 5 046
WESTERN 31 134 108 994 84 862 13 743
Trelawny 17 499 61 244 48 592 12 598
St. James 13 635 47 589 36 086 1 145
Hanover 0 161 0 0
Westmoreland 0 0 0 0
SOUTHERN 31 746 106 199 75 126 24 780
St. Elizabeth 3 428 11 918 9 892 1 234
Manchester 14 002 48 541 32 833 11 249
Clarendon 14 316 45 740 32 401 12 297

Source: Ministry of Health and Environment

activities will support the work to develop new growth charts and
a comprehensive approach to promoting growth.
Environmental Health
The Environmental Health Unit in the MOH conducted
several training sessions during the year under the Food Safety
and Protection Programme and 25 Public Health Officers were
trained in the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
Programme. Approximately 75.0 per cent of all Public Health
Officers were engaged in training for the inspection of imported
food. The guidelines for the inspection of imported food and for
the certification of offsite facilities (cold storage) were completed.
Some 13 Public Health officers were also trained at the University
of the West Indies in the essentials of Occupational Health and
Safety.
Through a joint initiative by the Jamaican and USA customs
departments, radiation detection equipment was installed at the
major ports in Jamaica, as it was realized that the scrap metal
industry was a key source of ionizing radiation generated at the
ports. On one occasion the US Department of Energy was called
in to decontaminate a container loaded with scrap metal. The
MOH and the UWI also collaborated in an Environmental Health
Assessment of a scrap metal facility. The findings revealed lead
contamination at hazardous levels in the soil.
Chronic Diseases
Jamaica’s first national faith-based consultation on the
prevention and control of chronic diseases and their risk factors
was held. Sixty persons from 25 faith-based organizations
attended the consultation, which was held in collaboration with
PAHO. An output of this event was the Guidelines for Churches
and Faith-Based Organization on Chronic Diseases and
Prevention of their risk Factors.
A National Minimum Data Set for the surveillance of
chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) and their risk
factors was established and included in the chapter on
CNCDS Surveillance in the National Surveillance Manual.
This National Surveillance Manual was launched by the
MOH during the year and contains data on both chronic
non-communicable diseases as well as communicable
diseases. It was used in sensitizing approximately 200
health care workers to the surveillance system.
Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes were
developed and over 400 distributed in the four Health
Regions. Guidelines for the Management of Nicotine as
well as a Chronic Disease Passport that will assist persons
with diabetes and hypertension to improve patient
self-management and referral were also developed and
distributed to the health regions.
National Laboratory Services
There was increased laboratory capacity for malaria
testing through training of five additional persons to read
malaria slides. With this, the cadre in the national Public
Health Laboratory (NPHL) moved from seven to twelve
persons.
The Tuberculosis Laboratory and the Specimen and
Cross Match Laboratory were completed. This was made
possible through Global Funds administered by the National
HIV/AIDS Programme in the Ministry of Health.

TABLE 23.6
PHARMACY SERVICES AT PUBLIC HOSPITALS
BY REGION, 2009 (Jan- June)
REGION/PARISH Number of Items Prescribed
In-patient Outpatient
Total Jamaica 350 921 1 017 883
South East 142 532 291 342
North East 36 080 202 215
Western 92 892 271 716
Southern 79 417 252 610
National Public Health Laboratory
The abolition of user fees from the public health sector resulted
in a 17.2 per cent increase in the number of samples and tests
carried out by this laboratory in 2009 compared with 2008. The
lab received approximately 2 630 samples for tuberculosis in 2009
compared with 2 443 in 2008. Malaria samples received by the lab
numbered 34 738 compared with 30 998 in the previous year.
Twenty-one of the malaria cases were positive with 16 found to be
locally transmitted. The laboratory also tested 3 596 samples for
the Influenza A H1N1 Virus.
National Blood Transfusion Service
Approximately 27 446 units of blood from a target of 30 000
was collected during the year. The main challenge faced was the
lack of a blood mobile unit and inadequate transportation for
mobile teams. There was however, the strengthening of corporate
partnership to deliver these services. Corporate partners
contributed $3.32 million and a water deionizer system, which,
provided the entire laboratory service with water of the purity
required to operate the equipment .
Mental Health
The Mental Health Strategic Plan and Regional work plans
were completed during the year and elements of these plans were
distributed and discussed with stakeholders. The final draft of the
implementation plan for reorganizing mental health services and
decentralizing of services from the Bellevue Hospital was
approved, and a work-plan developed for the 2009 priority
objectives.
The Ministry saw to the identification of the list of facilities
that are to be designated as Mental Health Facilities and the list of
to be members of the Mental Health Review Board and Tribunal.
The National Mental Health Policy was reviewed and
recommendations for improvement and implementation
submitted to the Steering Committee for action. In addition, the
involuntary admission form for mentally ill patients was
reviewed, approved and introduced to the hospitals for use.
The Planning Institute of Jamaica secured a grant from the
Commonwealth Secretariat to employ a Consultant Child and
Adolescent Psychiatrist who developed a curriculum for a
fellowship in Child and Youth Psychiatry. The University of the
West Indies accepted the curriculum. The consultant also
conducted regular supervisory training sessions with the six
psychiatrists who work in the Child Guidance Clinics throughout
the island.
23.7
Number of Items Dispensed Total Number of Patients
In-patient Outpatient In-patient Outpatient
296 597 818 190 123 502 315 021
123 715 1233 305 53 839 89 613
29 420 164 471 13 088 62 971
75 764 218 098 29 794 77 232
67698 202 316 26 718 85 205
Source: Ministry of Health and Environment
Family Health Services
Two of the 14 vehicles that were to be purchased by the
National Health Fund for the EPI programme were acquired
and assigned to the NERHA and the WRHA. Immunization
coverage for January to November was below the planned
target as a result of delays with the delivery of vaccines. In
order to enhance the maintenance of the cold chain in the
field, some 40 refrigerators and 50 igloos were distributed in
the regions. The safe motherhood programme was launched
in July and a total of 150 videos and 50 DVDs were
distributed to the parishes. It was found that only four
hospitals islandwide routinely used the partograph, with an
additional four using it partially and a total of 10 hospitals
not using it at all.
Pesticides Control Authority (PCA)
The PCA is a statutory body mandated through the
Pesticides Act of 1975 to regulate the use of pesticides in
Jamaica. The functions over the past year included
registration of pesticides, licensing pest control operators
and issuing of import licenses for pesticides. Four of the
annual target of 20 pesticides were registered and 1 124 first
time applications for licences were processed, exceeding the
annual target of 1 000. Nineteen pest control operators
(PCOs) were licensed and 43 pest control applicators were
either certified or recertified. Additionally, 15 products
were licensed. The PCA held two workshops for pest
control applicators and four for persons awaiting
certification.
It also conducted 439 inspections of farm stores, and
businesses operated by PCOs, manufacturers and importers.
The PCA worked closely with the Caribbean Poison
Information Network (CARPIN) in poison prevention
activities and with other state agencies in ensuring food
safety related to pesticide use.
Support Services
Pharmacy Service
Preliminary data from the MOH indicated that between
January and June 2009, pharmacies at public health centres
islandwide served 141 687 patients compared with 88 253
for the same period the previous year. This represents an
increase of 60.5 per cent. A total of 467 255 items were
prescribed (Table 23.5) an increase of more than 70.0 per
cent compared with the same period for the previous year. Of
the items prescribed, 76.9 per cent were dispensed compared
 23.8
TABLE 23.7
IMMUNIZATION COVERAGE, 2005-2009
(PER CENT)
YEAR BCG OPV
2005 94.5 83.6
2006 89.9 85.6
2007 87.4 84.8
2008 93.7 88.4
2009 94.1 88.6
with 73.1 per cent in 2008 (See Table 23.5). The health system
was able to maintain a relatively stable supply of pharmaceuticals
despite the increased demand.
At public hospitals, the total number of patients accessing
pharmacy services between January and June was 438 523 (Table
23.6). Outpatients accounted for 71.8 per cent of the number of
patients served, a level similar to the previous three years. The
total number of items prescribed from public hospital pharmacies
was 1 368 804, with approximately 74.4 per cent being prescribed
to outpatients (See Table 23.6).
Specific Programmes
HIV/AIDS
The National Programme focused on critical activities in the
strategic plan as a result of the near 50.0 per cent cut in the World
Bank project, due largely to the global and local economic crisis.
Delays in receiving allocations to fund project activities in
Jamaica contributed to delays in the execution of work plans.
Under the Treatment and Care Support Component of the
programme, 6 895 adults and children, were started on the
antiretroviral (ARV) treatment by 2009 and HIV testing increased
during the year with 180 000 persons islandwide being tested.
Multidisciplinary care for Persons Living with HIV/AIDS
(PLWHA) was provided at 21 treatment sites islandwide, and
there was continued partnership with 74 private physicians to
enable the treatment of PLWHA in the private sector.
In relation to the enabling environment and human rights, 181
large companies were reached through four private sector
umbrella groups and their workplace programme officers. A total
of 136 of these companies have either workplace policies or action
plans in place, and 179 have designated focal points on
HIV/AIDS. Approximately 150 chief executive officers or senior
directors have signed commitment forms and 67 steering
committees have been established and are active.
The National HIV/AIDS Workplace Policy was tabled in
Parliament, the draft sector workplace Policy for the Ministry of
Education was revised and editing of the draft Workplace Policy
for the Ministry of National Security was completed. The National
HIV-related Discrimination Reporting and Redress System
became operational during the year and the Multi-Sectoral
Working Group on Discrimination held several meetings.
DPT+DT MMR Hepatitis B Heamo B
87.5 84.0 87.7 88.6
85.3 87.2 85.2 86.7
85.1 76.2 84.7 85.1
88.4 88.9 89.8 88.4
90.1 88.1 89.9 90.1
Source: Ministry of Health
HEALTH STATUS
Health Status by Age Groups
This section presents issues affecting various age groups
as indicated by the public health experience. The indicators
used are specific to the age group being addressed: 0-9
years; 10-19 years; 20-59 years; and senior citizens.
0-9 years
The number of children in this age group totalled 463
000 and constituted 17.2 per cent of the general population
(see Population Chapter). Key health issues affecting this
group included immunization, nutrition and unintentional
injuries.
Immunization coverage for children 0-11 months for the
year was as follows: BCG 94.1 per cent; DPT/DT 90.1 per
cent; OPV/Polio 88.6 per cent; Hib 90.1 per cent; HepB 89.9
per cent (Table 23.7). Coverage for children 12-23 months
for MMR was 88.1 per cent.
Data from the MOH indicated that 44.7 per cent of six
weeks old babies seen at public clinics between January and
June, were exclusively breast-fed compared with 42.8 per
cent in 2008. This is well below the Ministry’s target of 60.0
per cent exclusive breast feeding at six weeks. The data also
revealed that 32.2 per cent were exclusively breast-fed at
three months compared with 31.2 per cent in 2008. This is
also below the Ministry’s target. The pattern is however very
similar to that observed over the last five years, The Infant
and Young Child Feeding Policy was in the final stages of
completion.
Unintentional injuries affecting this group included
burns, poisoning and blunt injuries Data from the Accident
and Emergency (A&E) Units of public hospitals for the
period January to June indicate that 314 children suffered
burns, and accidental poisoning was reported for 372 (Table
23.8). Blunt injuries were reported for 468 children while
there were 121 cases of sexual assault or rape,
approximately 14.7 per cent of all persons who reported rape
or sexual assault.
10 -19 years
Persons in 10–19 years age group totalled 526 000 and
constituted 19.5 per cent of the general population (see
Population Chapter). Key health issues affecting this group
included violence related injuries (VRIs), motor vehicle
accidents (MVAs) and reproductive health issues.
MOH data reveal that adolescents accounted for 24.5 per
cent of antenatal and 20.0 per cent of postnatal visits at the
 23.9

TABLE 23.8
PATIENTS SEEN IN ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY UNITS OF PUBLIC HOSPITALS
BY CONDITION, GENDER AND AGE, 2009, (Jan- June)

CONDITIONS TOTAL UNDER 5 yrs 5-9 yrs 10-19 yrs 20-29 yrs 30-44 yrs 45-64 yrs 65+ yrs
CASES
SEEN M F M F M F M F M F M F M F

UNINTENTIONAL INJURIES
Burns 863.0 114.0 95 64 41 70 75 60 54 67 78 52 43 20 30
Poisoning 716 164.0 134 46 28 61 46.0 31 27 44 37 29 31 17 20
Motor Vehicle Accidents 7 247 100.0 64 206 152 786 647 1 470 668 1 205 604 667 372 195 100
Accidental Lacerations 7 549 529.0 264 850 374 1 400 478 929 380 897 416 543 241 161 76
Bites 3 099 187 111 297 178 353 275 225 214 296 332 219 227 85 93

INTENTIONAL INJURIES

Attempted Suicides 98 0.0 0 0 0 8 27 7 27 5 14 5 4 1 0

ASSAULTS

Stab wounds 1 339 0.0 2 8 4 312 90 354 97 284 57 93 22 14 1

Gun shot 736.0 2 0 2 3 93 19 234 28 218 29 72 9 26 1
Blunt injury 6 019 81.0 54 206 127 889 616 688 765 819 726 541 304 130 66
Sexual Assault 818.0 3.0 31 14 73 21 483 3 121 6 45 2 12 0 4

Source: Ministry of Health

island’s public health centres between January and June 2009.
Adolescents accounted for 21.7 per cent of new family planning
acceptors with 24.2 per cent of them choosing the pill, 25.3 per
cent the injection, 11.9 per cent the IUD, 13.9 per cent the condom
and 25.5 per cent the dual method3.
With respect to injuries, hospital data revealed that this age
group was over represented among cases seen at the A&E
departments at public hospitals between January and June. They
accounted for 26.2 per cent of all intentional injuries, with males
involved in more than 70.0 per cent of these cases. This group
accounted for 22.3 per cent of unintentional injuries seen at the
A&E departments, males being 66.0 per cent. Adolescents
brought 30.0 per cent of stab wound cases seen, with adolescent
males representing more than three times the number of cases
compared with adolescent females (see Table 23.8). Adolescent
males also accounted for nearly five times more gun shot cases
than adolescent females.
Thirty five (35.0) per cent of attempted suicides were among
adolescents, with the majority being among adolescent females,
who had nearly four times more cases than adolescent males. In
relation to psychiatric cases, this age group accounted for 17.0 per
cent of all cases seen at A&E departments at public hospitals.
Persons in this age group accounted for 61.6 per cent of all those
who reported for sexual assault or rape.
20-59 years
This age group totalled 1 411 700 and constituted 52.3 per cent
of the general population (see Population Chapter). Key health
issues affecting this group were VRIs, MVAs and chronic
illnesses. Persons in this age group were involved in
approximately 63.0 per cent of Motor Vehicle Accident
(MVA) cases and over 60.0 per cent of stab wound cases
seen at the A&E departments at public hospitals between
January and June 2009. Persons in the 20-44 years age
group accounted for 54.4 per cent of MVAs; 59.2 per cent of
stab wound cases; and 69.8 per cent of cases for gun shot
wounds. Males continued to account for twice as many
cases as females. Females continued to account for the
majority (3- 4 times as many cases) of the Diabetes and
Hypertension cases seen at public sector clinics.
Senior Citizens (60 + years)
There were 298 100 persons in this age group,
representing 11.0 per cent of the general population (see
Population Chapter). Key health issues affecting this group
included chronic illnesses and the cost of health care.
Senior citizens accounted for 30.6 per cent of all new
diabetic cases and 35.9 per cent of new hypertension cases
seen at the island’s public health centres between January
and June 2009. Twice as many new females were seen for
diabetes compared to males. The numbers seen for
hypertensive cases were almost equal for both genders.
The age group 65 years and over accounted for some 2.0
per cent of cases of intentional injuries seen at the accident
and emergency units at the island’s public hospitals; 4.0 per
cent of motor vehicle accidents and 4.0 per cent of
psychiatric cases.

3 The Dual method is use of the condom along with another approved contraceptive method.
 23.10
PARTNERS IN HEALTH CARE
The Jamaica Cancer Society
The mission of the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) is to
eliminate cancer as a major health problem in Jamaica. Services
were provided by the Society through fixed site and mobile
screening units; national education and public health awareness
programmes; selected treatment and diagnostic services; and
counseling and support mechanisms for victims of cancer and
their families.
Special focus during the year was on increasing education and
public awareness for the prevention and early detection of cancer.
Early in the year the Society launched its Smoke-free Worksite
Campaign at which approximately 13 companies were
represented. This campaign was funded by the American Cancer
Society, The JCS also collaborated with the Association of
General Practitioners to host a tobacco cessation programme,
FreshStart, which saw 13 doctors, six nurses and four corporate
representatives participating.
There was a 7.4 per cent (13 168) increase in the number of
clients screened by the Mammography Department during the
year compared with 2008. Some 80.0 per cent of these clients were
screened at the fixed site. Women in the age group 40-49 years
accounted for over 40.0 per cent of the total number of women
who received mammograms. Sixty persons above 35 years,
including four from the mobile programme, were provisionally
diagnosed with breast cancer.
A total of 11 377 persons did pap smears, a decline 17.0 per
cent compared with 2008. Of the persons screened, 12.0 per cent
were doing a pap smear for the first time, 48.0 per cent were return
clients and 40.0 per cent had pap smears done before but not at the
Society. Approximately 7.2 per cent of the pap smears done had
abnormal results, with the 20-24 years age group having the
largest proportion of abnormal results followed by those below 20
years.
A total of 483 males were screened for prostate cancer, an
increase of 19.5 per cent compared with the previous year.
Additionally, 57.0 per cent were being screened at the Society for
the first time. Of those screened, 8.3 per cent were diagnosed with
cancer.
The Diabetes Association of Jamaica
The Association offers a wide range of diabetes related
services, which include diabetes education, nutrition counselling,
eye care, foot care, pharmaceutical services, medical consultancy,
eye laser treatment, kidney dialysis and a gym. At the outreach
offices there is early screening for diabetes, hypertension, heart
conditions, as well as problems with the kidneys, eyes and feet.
In 2009 the key focus for the association was on improving
patient care and clinic deliverables; strengthening of the outreach
programmes; establishment of an office in Port Maria, St. Mary;
training; and collaboration with overseas organisations.
In terms of service delivery, 10 029 persons were screened for
hypertension, 9 129 for blood sugar and 6 328 for cholesterol.
Additionally, 4 416 persons had eye screening done and 3 482
visited the foot care clinic. The association also reported 146 new
cases of diabetes mellitus.
Reaching Individuals through Skills and Education
(RISE) Life Management Services (Formerly Addiction
Alert)
The mission of this organization is to provide
educational, vocational and health related services for
at-risk populations in order to facilitate healthy, fulfilling
and productive lifestyles.
There are two divisions at RISE. One is the project
division, which operates community and school based
educational, health and social services, with the main goal
being primary prevention. Its activities focus on equipping
young persons, families and community members with the
educational, vocational and psychosocial knowledge and
skills that can empower them to live more productive lives
and avoid unhealthy behavior patterns. The second division
is the service division, which delivers training, consultancy
and counselling services aimed at providing the necessary
life skills to prepare young people, parents and community
members for employment. RISE also offers islandwide
counselling services for addictive disorders.
One of the programmes offered, the National Telephone
Lifeline, provides telephone counselling, assessment and
referrals. A total of 747 calls were taken in 2009. The 20-35
years age group continued to record the highest level of
reported abuse (45.0 per cent, up from 41.0 per cent in
2008); followed by the 36- 50 years (27.0 per cent, up from
25.0 per cent in 2008). Persons 51 years and over recorded
16.0 per cent, declining from 25.0 per cent in the previous
year, while those 10 to 18 years recorded 11.0 per cent.
The drug addiction problems reported were marijuana
(51.0 per cent up from 43.0 per cent in 2008); alcohol (18.0
per cent declining from the 22.0 per cent in 2008); crack
cocaine (11.0 per cent, also a decline from 14.0 per cent in
2008); gambling (12.0 per cent); nicotine (5.0 per cent);
seasoned spliff (1.2 per cent); powder cocaine (1.6 per cent);
prescription drugs (0.2 per cent).
The Centre for HIV/AIDS Research, Education and
Services (CHARES)
Established in 1987, the mandate of CHARES is to
provide medical, social, educational and nutritional support
to persons infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS
(PLWHA). The major areas of service provision are:
– Medical/Health Care
– Education and Training
– Service Delivery/Home Based Care
– Research
The centre has seen an increase in its clientele and hence
a demand for its services. This has lead to a number of
challenges and has highlighted the need for capacity
development, increased funding, a larger office space and
motor vehicles to assist with home based care.
Some of the activities undertaken during the year
included Adherence Support Meetings for PLWHAs and
presentation of certificates of recognition for social work
students from the University of the West Indies who
provided a continuous supportive environment for clients of
the centre. There was also an initiative to influence positive
change towards PLWHAs at the University Hospital of the
West Indies and in the community through education and

training of various groups. The centre also continued to provide
Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services.
Jamaica Network of Seropositives (JN+)
JN+ is a society of persons dedicated to securing and
improving the wellbeing of persons Living with and Affected by
HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs). The types of services and programmes
offered during the year included membership wellbeing, which
aimed at improving the quality of life for PLWHAs through
counseling, skills training, education on nutrition and access to
care and treatment. JN+ also provided advocacy, which addressed
issues of stigma and discrimination against PLWHAs, as well as
deficiencies in the Universal Access to Prevention Care and
Treatment Programme, employment issues and treatment
preparedness. The Network also disseminated information on
available health care services including medical and psychosocial
care.
The programmes offered by JN+ focused on capacity building
among members, public awareness through
workshops/interventions, and on forming and sustaining self
support groups. The network experienced significant staffing
issues during the year as a new programme coordinator resigned
shortly after being engaged. There was also no funding to fill or
other administrative positions.
Despite the staff inadequacies, JN+ was able to achieve some
of its objectives such as redesigning its website; developing 12 of
15 work plans for the support groups; developing five educational
modules for the Prevention with Positives Project. Additionally,
support groups were trained to conduct condom demonstrations
and condoms were distributed through the support group
secretariat.
JN+ partnered with the Latin American and Caribbean
Council of AIDS Service Organizations to assist in the
implementation of the Prevention, Treatment Advocacy Project.
JN+ also chaired the Advisory group for the National HIV-Related
Discrimination Reporting and Redress System.
23.11
OUTLOOK
The no-user fee policy will undoubtedly continue to be
on the agenda as the government continues its efforts to
balance access and affordability, particularly for the poor
and vulnerable.
The responsiveness of the health sector will also be
important given the various initiatives being under taken to
increase accountability by the RHAs. Reform of the public
health sector is expected to continue and the responsiveness
of the RHAs to these reforms will be a critical in increasing
and sustaining quality health care.
To encourage exclusive breastfeeding, the Draft Infant
and Young Child Feeding Policy will be rolled-out.
Additionally, the breastfeeding promoters for Baby Friendly
Hospitals are scheduled to reactivate the Baby Friendly
Hospital Initiative with recertification and de-certification
of institutions.
Results from the first phase of the nutrition surveillance
pilot project is expected to guide the remaining phase of
implementation, and the activities and lessons from this
project will be used to formulate and implement projects in
other parishes. The MOH also plans to upgrade the nutrition
services provided at Child Health Clinics in a pilot project in
order to emphasize growth promotion and the nutrition
content of Family Health and Procedures Manual. This is
against the background of possible nutritional deficiencies
that could be brought on by the current economic crisis,
especially among children under five years old. Other
activities will include the training of health care providers in
the use of the procedures manuals along with the printing
and distribution of culturally appropriate educational
materials on exclusive breastfeeding and complementary
feeding.n
CHAPTER 24
NATIONAL SECURITY AND JUSTICE
INTRODUCTION
C rime and violence continues to be a major concern in Ja-
maica. In 2009, the major crime rate was 437 per 100 000.
The increase in the major crime rate was predicated by an increase
of over 50.0 per cent in the reported cases of breaking and larceny
while clear-up rates declined to 22.5 per cent. The murder rate was
62 per 100 000 and the St. James Police Division recorded the
highest number of murders. There was an increase of approxi-
mately 70.0 per cent in the number of persons reported missing to
2 449.
In order to combat the increasing levels of crime and violence
in the Jamaican society, the Government with the assistance of
various stakeholders embarked on a number of strategies. The
Ministries of National Security and Justice have begun
implementation of the key strategies and actions under the
National Outcomes for years 1–3 (2009–2012) under the Security
and Safety and Justice components of Vision 2030
Jamaica-National Development Plan (NDP). Work has also begun
on identifying the appropriate indicators and targets to be
monitored during implementation. Two quarterly reports were
submitted on the implementation of activities relating to the NDP
up to the end of December. The National Security and Justice
Thematic Working group (TWG) was established in the last
quarter of the year to provide guidance and oversight for
monitoring the implementation of the strategies and actions
relating to security and safety, and the justice component of the
NDP.
Work commenced on the development of a National Crime
Prevention and Community Security Strategy and a Youth
Offender Strategy. Implementation of the Jamaica Violence
Prevention, Peace and Sustainable Development Programme
(JVPPSD), and the Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Local
Offenders and Deported Persons Programme also commenced. A
number of social intervention programmes continued to provide
residents from volatile and vulnerable communities with access to
training and other critical services. Phase I of the Citizens’
Security and Justice Programme (CSJP) ended and a new Loan
Agreement for Phase II was signed in December with the
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The components of
Phase II which will be implemented over four years include
community action and institutional strengthening of the Ministries
of National Security and Justice. The programme will also fund
the development of community justice tribunals under the justice
sector reform programme.
Despite resource constraints, implementation of the
Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Strategic Review
commenced. An Anti-Corruption Plan was prepared and
security vetting for senior managers commenced. A number
of retired officers were contracted to conduct Courts of
Enquiry to clear backlogged cases. The Community Based
Policing (CBP) Training Manual was finalized and a
committee was established to coordinate the re-branding of
the JCF. In order to increase operational efficiency of the
JCF, the Narcotics Division and the investigative arm of
Operation Kingfish were merged to form the Transnational
Crime and Narcotics Division (TCND). The TCND mandate
includes trafficking of drugs, firearms and persons, and
dismantling of criminal gangs. The Jamaica Defence Force
(JDF) also provided operational support to JCF.
In the area of corrections, a Risk of Harm tool was
developed to strengthen the risk/need assessment process.
Prison rules and national standards for community services
were also developed and implemented. The Hush the Guns
programme was implemented at the Diamond Crest facility,
which is now being used to house female wards after the
2009 fire at the Armadale Juvenile Correctional Centre
which led to the death of seven female wards. Additionally,
work was done on two hostels at Tower Street to facilitate the
reintroduction of the hostel programme and the visitors’
centre was completed.
Work also continued on the Justice Sector Reform. The
policy document was revised and submitted to Cabinet. A
number of public consultations were also held islandwide.
Property was acquired for the creation of Justice Square
which will facilitate the expansion of the Office of the
Director of Public Prosecution, Supreme Court and Court of
Appeal. Several pieces of legislation were enacted or
amended during the year. These include: the Sexual
Offences Act; the Child Pornography Act; the Jury
(Amendment) Act; the Coroners (Amendment) Act; the
Appropriation Act; the Financial Administration and Audit
(Amendment) Act; the Income Tax (validation and
amendment) Act; the Constitution (Constituencies)
(Amendment) Act; the Trade (Amendment) Act; the
Customs Act; and the Registration (Strata Titles)
(Amendment) Act.
FINANCING
Budget allocation for the Ministry of National Security
(MNS) for the fiscal year (FY) 2009/10 amounted to
approximately $41.4 billion, 7.5 per cent of the total GOJ
 24.2

TABLE 24.1A TABLE 24.1B

MINISTRY OF NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTRY OF JUSTICE
RECURRENT AND CAPITAL BUDGET RECURRENT AND CAPITAL BUDGET
BY FUNCTIONS BY FUNCTIONS
2008/9-2009/10 2008/09-2009/10
$'000 $'000

REVISED REVISED
ESTIMATES ESTIMATES ESTI- ESTI-
RECURRENT 2008/09 2009/10 MATES MATES
RECURRENT 2008/09 2009/10
Ministry of National 2 539 012 1 239 765
Security Ministry of Justice 766 500 799 937
Jamaica Defence Force 6 416 562 9 678 895 Court of Appeal 155 435 135 915
Police Department 21 698 193 24 448 832 Director of Public Prosecution 184 920 162 432
Department of 3 631 577 3 685 957 Family Court 149 034 142 093
Correctional Services
Resident Magistrates' Courts 762 398 686 275
SUBTOTAL 34 285 344 39 053 449
Revenue Court 5 418 5 773
Supreme Court 626 296 570 843
CAPITAL A
Administrator General 89 484 90 648
Jamaica Defence Force 4 260 917 340 000
Attorney General 392 687 404 993
Police 1 941 760 300 000
Trustee in Bankruptcy 31 305 31 642
Correctional Services 118 803 60 000
Office of Parliamentary Counsel 61 573 60 701
Legal Reform Department 33 357 35 304
SUBTOTAL 6 321 480 700 000a
SUBTOTAL 3 258 407 3 126 556
CAPITAL B
CAPITAL A
Jamaica Defence Force - -
Ministry of Justice: Public Order & Safety 277 900 306 000
Police 795 800 1 285 110 Services
Correctional Services - 224 900
General and Other - 171 990 SUBTOTAL 277 900 306 000a
Services - MNS
SUBTOTAL 795 800 1 682 000
CAPITAL B
Ministry of Justice: Public Order & Safety 21 782 17 050
TOTAL 41 402 624 41 435 449 Services
SUBTOTAL 21 782 17 050
a - Less appropriation in Aid
Source: Estimates of Expenditure - for year ending March 31, 2009 TOTAL 3 558 089 3 449 606

a: Less appropriation in Aid

Source: Estimates of Expenditure - for year ending March 31, 2009

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office

13.4% Budget1. The allocation was marginally higher than the
allotment for the previous year (Table 24.1a). Security
received the second largest allocation of the government
DFID
10.5%
budget following education and preceding health.
The MNS budget is shared between the Central Ministry
and its three Departments: the Jamaica Constabulary Force
IDB (JCF), the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and
USAID 57.3%
12.6% the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). The JCF continued to
receive the largest portion of the MNS’s allocation,
Belgian Government accounting for 62.8 per cent of the total budget; the JDF 24.2
0.8% per cent; DCS, 9.6 per cent; and the Ministry 3.4 per cent.
EU
3.3% Total Capital A allocation was approximately $0.7 billion
UNDP/CIDA which was more than $5.6 billion less than that for the
2.1%
previous fiscal year. In the previous year (2008) just over
$4.2 billion had been allocated to the JDF to purchase
equipment including helicopters. The Capital A allocation
was spent primarily on purchasing and repairing equipment,
FIGURE 24A: ODA ALLOCATION FOR THE and infrastructural development.
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL SECURITY, 2009

1 Annual average inflation rate for 2009 was 9.6 per cent and 22.0 per cent in 2008.
 24.3

Official Development Assistance (ODA) (Capital B Budget)

for the Ministry was just over $1.6 billion, 76.4 per cent was TABLE 24.2
allocated to the JCF to purchase specialised motor vehicles. The ESTABLISHMENT AND STRENGTH OF THE
ODA allocation (Figure 24A) was used to fund projects including: JAMAICA CONSTABULARY FORCE
AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2009
– Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded Citi-
zens’ Security and Justice Project (CSJP);
– Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) RANK OLD ESTAB- NEW ESTAB- STRENGTH
funded Jamaica Constabulary Reform Programme; LISHMENT LISHMENT
– Eu ro pean Un ion (EU) funded Pov erty Re duc tion
Programme (PRP) II;
Commissioner 1 1 0
– Belgian Government funded projects under the Commu- Deputy 3 4 3
nity Crime Prevention Programme; Commissioner
Assistant 15 19 20
– United States Agency for International Development Commissioner
(USAID) fund Community Empowerment and Transfor- Senor 30 38 16
mation (COMET) Programme; Superintendent
Superintendent 62 78 81
– De partment for In ter na tional De velop ment (DFID) Deputy 141 168 174
funded Community Security Initiative (CSI); Superintendent
Assistant 31 100 22
– United Nations Development Programme funded Jamaica Superintendent
Violence Prevention, Peace and Sustainable Development Inspector 400 512 479
Sergeant 1 119 1 342 1 341
Programme; and
Corporal 1 802 2 081 1 923
– British Foreign and Commonwealth Office funded Reha- Constable 4 896 5 657 4 332
bilitation and Reintegration of Local Offenders and De-
ported Persons Programme. TOTAL 8 500 10 000 8 391

Budget allocation for the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) for FY Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Personnel Department
2009/10 totalled approximately $3.4 billion; which is 0.6 per cent
of the total GOJ Budget and just over $0.1 billion less than the sum
for 2008 (Table 24.1b). The central administration of the MOJ TABLE 24.3
received 23.2 per cent of the total allocation. This was followed by JAMAICA CONSTABULARY FORCE
the Resident Magistrates’ Courts (RM Courts) 19.9 per cent; ATTRITION BY REASON
Supreme Court 16.5 per cent; and the Attorney General 11.7 per
cent. The Capital A allocation of the MOJ was spent primarily on
purchasing property for the establishment of Justice Square in REASON 2007a 2008a 2009
downtown Kingston while the Capital B budget was used to
implement the justice component of the CSJP. Retirement 143 151 116
Resignation 100 102 77
JAMAICA CONSTABULARY FORCE (JCF) Death 28 23 33
Physically Unfit 4 2 1
Not Permitted to Re-enlist 1 8 12
Personnel
Desertion (Regulation 27 (1)) 12 11 7
Judicial Conviction (Reg. 38) 8 1 3
The strength of the JCF stood at 8 391 in December 2009
Court of Enquiry (Reg. 47) 0 2 23
(Table 24.2); an increase of 2.0 per cent when compared with Retire in Public Interest 11 1 0
2008. This was 16.1 per cent below the establishment, which Decline to Re-enlist 2 0 1
increased to 10 000 in 2008 over the previous size of 8 500. A total Not likely to become an efficient 6 2 1
of 205 males and 122 females were enlisted versus 356 (267 males constable (Reg. 24 (6) (A)
and 89 females) in 2008; an 8.1 per cent reduction. The force lost a
total of 274 persons compared with 303 in 2008 (Table 24.3). The TOTAL 315 303 274
two main reasons for this reduction were retirement (42.3 per cent)
and resignation (28.1 per cent). a - revised
Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Personnel Department
The Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) is the main
auxiliary body of the JCF. Its main roles and responsibilities
include: traffic management and beat patrols; acting as court 2008. The ISCF lost 43 of its members due to retirement
orderlies; maintenance of public order; enforcement of Acts and (20), resignation (11) and death (7).
Regulations of the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation and other
Parish Councils; offensive weapons, copyright, environmental Major Crimes
and praedial larceny laws; and security of government
departments, the residences of judges and other VIPs. Major crimes are categorized as murder, shooting, rape,
carnal abuse, robbery, larceny and breaking. A total of
Although the ISCF has an establishment of 2 091, the strength 11 801 major crimes were reported, 17.5 per cent more than
of the force at the end of 2009 was 1 978, which is 5.4 per cent 2008 (Table 24.4). As a result, the major crime rate
below establishment size. There were 301 new recruits (219 males increased to 437 per 100 000 population. There were
and 82 females), a 23.4 per cent increase when compared with increases in all types of major crimes except rape and carnal
 24.4

TABLE 24.4
NUMBER AND TYPES OF CRIMES REPORTED AND CLEARED UP, 2007-2009
2007 2008 2009 2008/09 2008/09
OFFENCES Reported Cleared Reported Cleared Reported Cleared Per cent Per cent
Up Up Up change in change in
Reported Crimes
Crime Cleared Up
A. Offences Against Persons
Major Offences Against Persons
Murder 1 574 534 1 618 515 1 672 481 3.3 -6.6
Shooting 1 441 575 1 528 545 1 665 486 9.0 -10.8
Rape and Carnal Abuse 1 106 625 1 459 672 1 175 585 -19.5 -12.9
Robbery 1 598 420 2 660 446 3 003 425 12.9 -4.7

TOTAL 5 719 2 154 7 265 2 178 7 515 1 977 3.4 -9.2

B. Offences Against Property

Major Offences Against Property

Breaking 1 467 568 2 449 538 3 778 584 54.3 8.5

Other Offences Against Property

Larceny from person, dwelling, motor vehicle 304 230 325 101 508 92 56.3 -8.9

TOTAL 1 771 798 2 774 639 4 286 676 54.5 5.8

GRAND TOTAL 7 490 2 952 10 039 2 817 11 801 2 653 17.5 -5.8

Note: Data on other crimes usually reported on were not available at the time of publication
Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department

abuse. The largest increases were in breaking and larceny, by 54.3
per cent and 56.3 per cent respectively. Of the total number of
major crimes reported, 22.5 per cent (2 653) was cleared up by the
end of the year; a continuation of the trend of declines in clear up
rates from 2006, 2007 and 2008 when it was 42.7 per cent, 38.3 per
cent and 28.1 per cent respectively. It should be noted that 68.3 per
cent of the major crimes committed were in the parishes of St.
Andrew, St. Catherine, St. James, Kingston and Clarendon (Table
24.5).
Some 18 907 persons were arrested and charged in 2009; of
this number, 3 195 (98.2 per cent males) were for major crimes
(Table 24.6). Of the total arrested, 2 899 were for crimes
committed during the reported period. Some 50.0 per cent of
those arrested were in the 16–25 age group. The majority of
females was arrested for murder (37.9 per cent) and breaking
(26.0 per cent). There were 11 293 victims of major crimes, a
16.2 per cent increase when compared with 2008, and males
again accounted for the majority of victims (60.8 per cent).
Approximately 55.9 per cent of victims were in the 15–39
age group while the number of victims in the 0–14 age group
declined by 24.7 per cent to 563 from 748 in the previous
year (Table 24.7a and 24.7b).

TABLE 24.5
SELECTED MAJOR CRIMES BY PARISH, 2009
Parish Murder Shooting Rape Carnal Abuse Robbery Breaking Larceny Total
Kingston 172 199 43 33 184 212 48 891
St. Andrew 452 519 91 62 1006 815 316 3 261
St. Catherine 339 307 118 103 447 493 23 1 830
St. James 241 181 76 28 291 229 14 1 060
Trelawny 36 22 26 29 42 149 22 326
Westmoreland 61 67 56 15 123 139 4 465
Hanover 27 31 27 25 60 135 9 314
St. Mary 14 18 21 11 62 130 9 265
St. Ann 36 35 34 14 164 341 26 650
Portland 20 11 17 27 24 130 11 240
Manchester 40 41 40 29 193 365 14 722
Clarendon 161 151 75 73 246 308 6 1 020
St. Elizabeth 30 38 25 18 117 250 3 481
St. Thomas 43 45 23 36 44 82 3 276

Total 1 672 1 665 672 503 3 003 3 778 508 11 801

Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department

 24.5

Drug related
Undetermined 1.6%
Others
Machete
11.4%
6.2%
3.3%

Knife
13.6%

Gang related
48.1%
Other criminal act
35.1%

Gun
76.9%

Domestic
3.8%

FIGURE 24B: PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF

TYPES OF IMPLEMENTS USED IN MURDER, 2009
Murder
The number of reported murders increased by 3.3 per cent to
1 672 from 1 618 in 2008, raising the murder rate to
approximately 62 per 100 000 population from 60 per 100 000
population in 2008. A total of 481 cases (28.8 per cent) were
cleared up compared to 515 cases (31.8 per cent) in 2008.
As with previous years, most murders reported were in the
Police Divisions of St. James (241), St. Andrew South (238), St.
Catherine North (175), St. Catherine South (164), Clarendon
(161), and St. Andrew North (120). The Portland Police
Division no longer recorded the lowest number of murders as
there was an 81.8 per cent increase in the number of murders.
The St. Mary Police Division had the lowest number of murders,
14.
Murders of females fell from 165 in 2008 to 160. There was
also a reduction in the number of children (0–17 years old)
murdered from 94 in 2008 to 81. The two largest categories of
FIGURE 24C: MOTIVES FOR COMMITTING
MURDER, 2009
persons murdered were labourers, 20.4 per cent, and the
unemployed, 18.8 per cent. A total of 11 police personnel were
murdered which is one less than in 2008.
There were 74 double, 9 triple and 3 group murders. The
gun was used to commit 76.9 per cent of all murders while
knives/machetes were used in 16.9 per cent (Figure 24B).
‘Gang-related activities’ was cited as the primary motive for
48.1 per cent of reported murders followed by ‘Other Criminal
Acts’ (35.1 per cent) (Figure 24C). There were 63 domestic
related murders, two more than in the previous year.
Shootings
There were 1 665 reported shootings, 9.0 per cent more
than in 2008 which resulted in 1 006 injuries; approximately
8.6 per cent less than in 2008. By the end of the year, 29.2 per
cent (486 cases) was cleared up as opposed to 35.7 per cent at

TABLE 24.6
AGE GROUP AND SEX OF PERSONS ARRESTED FOR SELECTED MAJOR CRIMES, 2009a
Age Murder Shooting Robbery Breaking Larceny Rape Carnal Total Grand
Group
M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total M M M F Total

12–15 6 1 7 3 0 3 18 0 18 48 3 51 5 - 5 15 25 120 4 124

16–20 78 4 82 79 1 80 124 2 126 109 4 113 14 1 15 57 128 589 12 601
21–25 167 5 172 222 - 222 201 2 203 187 1 188 21 1 22 83 102 983 9 992
26–30 119 - 119 108 - 108 87 1 88 95 2 97 17 3 20 30 36 492 6 498
31–35 79 7 86 74 1 75 59 - 59 82 3 85 5 2 7 40 36 375 13 388
36–40 46 4 50 41 0 41 28 2 30 45 1 46 8 3 11 28 22 218 10 228
41–45 15 - 15 10 0 10 13 1 14 44 1 45 6 - 6 25 14 127 2 129
46–50 5 1 6 7 0 7 6 0 6 21 - 21 3 1 4 14 6 62 2 64
51–55 5 - 5 1 0 1 3 0 3 21 0 21 2 - 2 9 7 48 0 48
56–60 8 0 8 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 3 - - - 2 10 25 0 25
61& Over 3 0 3 - 0 - - 0 - - 0 - - - - - - 3 0 3
Unknown 8 0 8 48 - 48 21 0 21 11 - 11 2 - 2 3 2 95 - 95
Total 539 22 561 594 2 596 561 8 569 666 15 681 83 11 94 306 388 3 137 58 3 195

a - Arrest may not relate to crimes committed in 2009

Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department
 24.6

TABLE 24.7a
AGE GROUP AND SEX OF VICTIMS OF SELECTED MAJOR CRIMES, 2009
AGE GROUP Murder Shooting Robbery Breaking Rape Carnal Total Grand
Abuse Total
M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total F F M F

0–4 4 1 5 3 1 4 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 7 4 11
5–9 2 2 4 4 5 9 - 0 - 1 0 1 13 20 7 40 47
10–14 7 7 14 8 4 12 30 - 30 1 2 3 175 271 46 459 505
15–19 144 15 159 108 20 128 131 102 233 15 40 55 232 212 398 621 1 019
20–24 250 22 272 206 20 226 228 196 424 107 144 251 102 0 791 484 1 275
25–29 285 24 309 209 21 230 281 195 476 216 237 453 58 0 991 535 1 526
30–34 193 13 206 161 25 186 239 161 400 209 261 470 25 0 802 485 1 287
35–39 140 17 157 146 15 161 222 127 349 264 249 513 29 0 772 437 1 209
40–44 143 19 162 105 19 124 219 103 322 275 207 482 16 0 742 364 1 106
45–49 99 11 110 81 14 95 159 91 250 245 190 435 5 0 584 311 895
50–54 57 6 63 45 5 50 122 68 190 207 157 364 5 0 431 241 672
55+ 117 20 137 64 7 71 182 104 286 421 241 662 8 0 784 380 1 164
Unknown 71 3 74 362 7 369 28 15 43 49 39 88 3 - 510 67 577
TOTAL 1 512 160 1 672 1 502 163 1 665 1 841 1 162 3 003 2 010 1 768 3 778 672 503 6 862 4 428 11 293

Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department

TABLE 24.7b
AGE GROUP AND SEX OF VICTIMS OF SELECTED MAJOR CRIMES, 2008
Age Group Murder Shooting Robbery Breaking Rape Carnal Total Grand
Abuse Total
M F Total M F Total M F Total M F Total F F M F

0–4 2 2 4 - 4 4 0 0 0 0 - - 1 3 2 10 12
5–9 - 2 2 2 - 2 1 0 1 - 0 - 11 34 3 47 50
10–14 13 3 16 8 4 12 26 9 35 2 3 5 237 381 49 637 686
15–19 129 20 149 97 24 121 143 86 229 17 36 53 290 189 386 645 1 031
20–24 252 19 271 181 23 204 232 174 406 85 79 164 118 0 750 413 1 163
25–29 229 24 253 193 26 219 223 171 394 154 151 305 67 0 799 439 1 238
30–34 195 9 204 148 10 158 209 127 336 155 143 298 39 0 707 328 1 035
35–39 203 18 221 121 19 140 206 98 304 177 148 325 18 0 707 301 1 008
40–44 116 24 140 118 10 128 180 94 274 173 140 313 27 0 587 295 882
45–49 89 15 104 74 11 85 130 68 198 147 112 259 12 0 440 218 658
50–54 44 3 47 55 7 62 111 54 165 137 100 237 7 0 347 171 518
55+ 90 20 110 52 7 59 201 72 273 276 143 419 20 0 619 262 881
Unknown 91 6 97 330 4 334 29 16 45 36 35 71 2 - 486 66 552
TOTAL 1 453 165 1 618 1 379 149 1 528 1 691 969 2 660 1 359 1 090 2 449 849 610 5 882 3 832 9 714

Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Statistics Department

the end of 2008. Of the total, 1 326 (79.6 per cent) were shootings
by civilians and included 36 drive-by shootings that resulted in 17
deaths. The remaining 339 were police/criminal confrontations.
Shootings due to police/criminal confrontations increased by 5.9
per cent, while shootings by civilians increased by 9.8 per cent
when compared with 2008. There were 255 fatal shootings2, 10
more than in 2008. Of this total 94.5 per cent was due to police
shootings while 3.1 per cent was shootings by civilians.
During the year, 109 firearms and 1 239 rounds of ammunition
were reported stolen however, the JCF recovered 569 firearms and
6 068 rounds of ammunition.
Missing Persons
A total of 2 449 persons were reported missing, 69.4 per
cent (1 003) more than in 2008. Of this number, 1 839 (75.1
per cent) were children with 1 302 (70.8 per cent) girls.
Conversely, the majority of adults reported missing (418,
approximately 68.5 per cent) was male. Some 1 440 persons
(1 133 children) were returned or found, 50 confirmed dead
(13 children), while 959 (694 children) were unaccounted
for.
Suicides
There were 56 suicides (52 males), nine more than in
2007. As with previous years, most of those committing

2 Fatal shootings are shootings by persons licensed to carry a firearm and include Police Officers, Soldiers, specific Security Guards
and private licensed firearm holders.
 24.7

TABLE 24.8
NUMBER OF PERSONS DEPORTED TO JAMAICA BY TYPES OF CRIME AND COUNTRY, 2008 AND 2009
2008 2009

Offences USA Canada England Other Total USA Canada England Other Total

Possession of Drugs 669 38 303 100 1 110 655 33 225 92 1 005

Illegal Possession of Firearm, Shooting 98 9 31 1 139 104 9 23 6 142
Murder, Manslaughter 39 1 13 11 54 62 3 9 3 77
Illegal Alien 298 111 317 574 1 300 262 120 220 614 1 216
Robbery, Burglary, Larceny 80 14 39 5 138 114 14 41 12 181
Fraud, False Document 47 10 46 20 123 59 13 33 15 120
Wounding, Assault 112 16 36 4 168 105 17 27 5 154
Rape, Indecent Assault 36 2 5 - 43 28 3 9 - 40
Kidnapping 8 - - - 8 9 - 3 - 12
Money Laundering 10 - 2 - 12 6 - 1 1 8
Other Offences 79 9 25 26 139 68 11 28 14 121

TOTAL 1 476 210 817 731 3 234 1 472 223 619 762 3 076

Source: Ministry of National Security, Police Statistics Department

suicide were in the 26–30 age group (nine cases), followed by the remaining 15 204 were for Other Offences (62.4 per cent),
36–40 age group (seven cases) and the 16–20, 21–25, and 41–45 illegal vending (11.5 per cent), Praedial Larceny (0.4 per
age groups had five cases each. One person in the 11–15 age group cent), and breaches of the Acts – Dangerous Drugs (11.8 per
also committed suicide. The most common method used was cent), Offensive Weapon (10.4 per cent), Town and
hanging, which accounted for 69.6 per cent of all suicides Communities (2.7 per cent), National Solid Waste
followed by shooting, 14.3 per cent. The two major attributing Management (0.8 per cent) and Quarries (0.1 per cent).
factors were depression (39.3 per cent) and domestic problems
(23.2 per cent), while 25.0 per cent was unknown. Traffic Accidents and Road Safety Measures
Deportation and Extradition Just over $367.7 million was collected for motor vehicle
traffic fines from 312 392 traffic tickets issued (includes
Of the 3 076 persons deported to Jamaica (158 less than in tickets issued by the ISCF). Of the tickets issued 262 705
2008), 87.5 per cent (2 690) was male (Table 24.8). The largest (84.1 per cent) were for Other Offences, 17 752 (5.7 per
number of deported persons was in the 31–35 age group (551) cent) for lack of safety devices, and 15 277 (4.9 per cent) for
followed by the 36–40 and 26–30 age groups with 535 and 528 exceeding the speed limit.
persons respectively. Overstaying, illegal entry or illegal re-entry
accounted for 39.5 per cent (1 216) of deportations, and a further
32.7 per cent (1 005) was for drug infringements. Some 75.2 per TABLE 24.9
cent of persons deported were from the three major destinations REPORTED ROAD ACCIDENTS INVOLVING
for Jamaicans: United States of America (USA), England and FATALITIES BY PARISH,
Canada. The largest number of deported persons, 48.8 per cent JANUARY 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 2009
came from the USA, followed by England with 20.1 per cent.
There was a marginal reduction (0.3 per cent) in the number of PARISH NUMBER OF NUMBER OF
persons deported from the USA and a more substantial reduction ACCIDENTS PERSONS
(24.2 per cent) in the number of persons deported from England. INVOLVING FA- KILLED
TALITIES
The majority of persons deported from Canada (53.8 per cent) and
Other Countries (80.6 cent) was for overstaying or illegal entry Kingston 11 12
while the majority of persons deported from the USA (82.2 per St. Andrew 31 33
cent) and England (64.5 per cent) was for criminal activity. St. Thomas 10 10
Additionally, 44.5 per cent and 36.3 per cent of those deported Portland 2 4
from the USA and England respectively were for drug St. Mary 15 18
infringements. Over 71.0 per cent of persons deported returned to St. Ann 19 27
the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Catherine, Clarendon Trelawny 14 16
and St. James. St. James 32 34
Hanover 14 19
A total of 18 persons (including two females) were extradited; Westmoreland 32 37
ten for narcotics charges, five for murder charges, two for fraud St. Elizabeth 23 29
and one for first degree assault. Fifteen were extradited to the Manchester 10 10
USA, two to Canada and one to England. One person (male) was Clarendon 27 30
deported from Jamaica to the USA for committing sexual assault. St. Catherine 55 62

ISCF Tickets and Arrests TOTAL 295 341

Tickets issued and arrests made by the ISCF totalled 241 047; Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Traffic Division
of these, 225 843 were for traffic offences while the
 24.8

TABLE 24.10
AGE GROUP AND SEX OF ROAD USERS WHO DIED
IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, 2008 AND 2009
2008r 2009
Age Group Male Female Total Male Female Total
00–04 - 3 3 6 1 7
05–09 7 5 12 6 5 11
10–14 4 2 6 12 3 15
15–19 10 7 17 18 8 26
20–24 30 10 40 27 - 27
25–29 27 1 28 35 6 41
30–34 27 7 34 19 3 22
35–39 28 3 31 21 2 23
40–44 17 5 22 20 2 22
45–49 14 6 20 11 3 14
50–54 12 4 16 14 2 16
55–59 11 5 16 13 3 16
60–64 4 3 7 7 2 9
65–69 12 2 14 10 2 12
70–74 6 2 8 6 1 7
75 & OVER 14 6 20 13 4 17
Unknown 45 4 49 48 8 56

TOTAL 268 75 343 286 55 341

r - revised
Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force, Police Traffic Department

fatalities were persons between 20 and 44 years compared

with 45.2 per cent in 2008. Approximately 17.3 per cent was
below 20 years of age versus 11.1 per cent in 2008. Males
CMC Drivers accounted for 83.9 per cent of all fatalities (Table 24.10).
3%
PMC Drivers
Pedestrian Police Community Relations
17%
24%
The Community Relations Branch (CRB) is responsible
PPV Drivers
for fostering improved relations between the police and the
3% citizenry. The police continued its Youth Intervention
Strategies by working with Police Youth Clubs (PYCs)
islandwide. Three new PYCs were launched and 11
CMC Passengers
2% Pedal Cyclists
resuscitated during the year.
9% U n d e r it s P u b l i c Ed u c a t i o n a n d P u b l i c it y
programmes, brochures on community policing, safe
PMC Passengers schools and community safety were distributed islandwide.
20%
Motor Cyclists The Neighbourhood Watch Programme (NWP)
14%
PPV Passengers
Pillion
continued during the year. Of the 623 neighbourhood
7% watches launched, 362 were operational in 2009. Four new
Passengers
1% watch groups were launched and 10 groups sensitized. Five
seminars were held with 778 participants covering the
following: community safety/crime prevention; community
FIGURE 24D: CATEGORY OF ROAD USERS KILLED development; leadership development and problem solving.
IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, 2009 A National Conference was also held with over 500 persons
(inclusive of police personnel). In addition, 10 000 copies of
the JCF’s Neighbourhood Watch booklets were reprinted
Traffic accidents totalled 6 934, of which 295 resulted in 341 and distributed.
road fatalities. The parishes of St. Catherine, Westmoreland, St.
James and St. Andrew recorded the most fatalities with 62, 37, 34 Crimes against tourists reported to the Tourism Liaison
and 33 respectively. After recording unusually high figures in Section increased by 32.6 per cent to 122 when compared
2008, Portland, this year, recorded the lowest number of fatalities with 2008. Of this number, 68.8 per cent was victims of
(4) (Table 24.9). “robbery with aggravation/burglary and
larceny/housebreaking and larceny/simple larceny.” Some
An analysis of fatalities as a result of traffic accidents showed 68.5 per cent of the reported incidents took place on the
that 24.3 per cent was pedestrians, 20.2 per cent private motor car property/properties where the tourists were staying. Five
passengers, 17.0 per cent private motor car drivers and 14.1 per tourists were killed during the year. The highest number of
cent motor cyclists (Figure 24D). Some 39.6 per cent of the incidents (52) was again reported in Ocho Rios.
 24.9

Anti-Crime Measures – providing oversight and managing the secure dis-

posal of all narcotics seizures islandwide
The specific activities undertaken are: Under the Cannabis Eradication Programme 328.3
hectares of marijuana, 1 072 500 seedlings, 24.0 kg of
NIBKingfish marijuana seeds, 5 251.2 kg of cured marijuana and 24
NIBKingfish, a merger of Special Branch, National nurseries were destroyed. Additionally, 22 294.1 kg of
Intelligence Bureau (NIB) and Operation Kingfish continued its marijuana, 33.9 kg of hashish, 264.2 kg of cocaine, 5.5 kg of
work during the year. A total of 897 actionable calls were made to crack and 2 785 Ecstasy tablets were seized (Table 24.11). A
the 811 telephone number and 1 142 operations were mounted. number of boats, motor vehicles, motor cycles and
This resulted in 166 arrests and the apprehension of 19 wanted containers associated with the illegal drug trade were also
persons and 3 illegal aliens. One kidnapped victim was also seized during the year.
rescued. Additionally, 63 firearms and 1 186 rounds of assorted
ammunition as well as a number of stolen motor vehicles, boats, TABLE 24.11
computers, drums of fuel, mobile phones, magazines, and QUANTITY AND TYPES OF DRUGS
currency were either seized or recovered. The task force SEIZED AND DESTROYED, 2008-2009
seized 17 722 lbs of compressed marijuana, 55 lbs of Hash Oil,
20.5 lbs of cocaine and 1 piece of crack; and destroyed 55 lbs of QUANTITY
seeds, 54 150 seedlings and 37 acres of marijuana plants. TYPES OF DRUG 2008 2009 REMARKS
Forty-three cases (22 murders, 6 shootings, 4 robberies and 11
others) were investigated which led to 17 arrests, 5 convictions MARIJUANA 28 036.2 (kg) 22 294.1 (kg) seized
and 12 cases pending in court. Plant (Grown) 394.2 (ha) 328.3 (kg) destroyed
Seedlings (units) 337 200 1 072 500 (kg) destroyed
Crime Stop Programme Ganja seeds 54.0 (kg) 24.1 (kg) destroyed
Nurseries (units) 10.0 24 (kg) destroyed
The Crime Stop Programme, funded by the private sector COCAINE 266.0 (kg) 264.2 (kg) seized
CRACK 3.3 (kg) 5.5 (kg) seized
under the National Crime Prevention Fund, continued offering HASH OIL 50.8 (kg) 0.0 seized
rewards to citizens providing information to the police. From HASHISH 12.2 (kg) 33.9 (kg) seized
1 176 calls received, 104 arrests were made. Among the arrests, 27 ECSTASY 0.0 2 785 (kg) seized
were for drug charges, 26 for illegal possession of firearm and 11 Clandestine Labs (units) 0.0 0.0 destroyed
for murder. The ratio of successes to calls made was the same as in
2008, 1:6. Six calls were not investigated due to insufficient Source: Jamaica Constabulary Force,
information provided and 24 calls were classified as being either Transnational Crime and Narcotics Division
malicious or hoaxes. A breakdown of calls received showed that
294 (25.0 per cent) concerned illegal firearms, 130 (11.1 per cent)
drugs, 129 (11.0 per cent) gunmen, 124 (10.5 per cent) wanted Under the Dangerous Drugs Act, 8 465 (8 310 locals and
men and 95 (8.1 per cent) murder. As a result of information 155 foreigners) arrests were made for breaches. This
received the following were recovered: 40 illegal firearms and 280 represents a 20.0 per cent increase compared with 2008.
rounds of ammunition; 1 137.3 kilograms of cured marijuana; 178 Males made up the majority of those arrested (93.9 per cent
sticks of marijuana and 0.5 kilograms of cocaine; and 17 stolen of locals and 67.1 per cent foreigners). The Division made
motor vehicles and 2 stolen motor bikes. In addition, 25.9 hectares 393 arrests at the country’s main access points, namely:
of marijuana and 156 500 marijuana seedlings were destroyed. Norman Manley International Airport – 283, Donald
The narcotics seized were valued at approximately $43.0 million, Sangster International Airport – 98, and other ports – 12.
36.9 per cent more than in 2008. The total value of property Among the foreigners arrested, 41.3 per cent was British,
recovered was approximately $16.8 million, 13.4 per cent less 13.5 per cent American, 11.0 per cent Canadian and 34.2 per
than in 2008. At the end of the year, approximately $1.8 million cent from Other Countries.
was paid out in rewards, 20 per cent more than in 2008. The Education Unit of the TCND sensitized 30 355
persons through 139 lectures, 74 exhibitions, 3 seminars and
Transnational Crimes and Narcotics Division 2 workshops.
The Transnational Crimes and Narcotics Division (TCND)
up to May operated as the Narcotics Division. The TCND which
Bureau of Special Investigations
includes the investigative arm of Operation Kingfish is involved A total of 318 shooting incidents were reported to the
in: Bureau of Special Investigations. Of this number, 224 were
– transnational criminal investigation and liaison work in for fatal shootings, 87 injury incidents and 7 discharge of
the trafficking of drugs, firearms and persons firearm. During the year, a total of 453 case files3 were
completed: 296 fatal shootings, 151 injury incidents, and 6
– criminal investigation targeting top tier criminals and discharge of firearm. As a result of investigations, the
their networks Director of Public Prosecution made 59 rulings for
– transshipment of commodities and persons and the dis- departmental action which were forwarded to the Assistant
ruption and dismantling of criminal networks Commissioner of Police.

3 Does not necessarily relate to incidents that occurred or were reported during the reporting period
 24.10
NATIONAL SECURITY INITIATIVES
The main initiatives undertaken throughout the year were:
Implementation of the JCF Strategic Review
Community Policing Lessons Learnt workshops and
management seminars were held to communicate the policing
philosophy, mission, culture and leadership style and 120 persons
participated. The Community Based Policing (CBP) Training
Manual that will be used to train members was finalized. A
standard definition of CBP (within the Jamaican context) and a
diagrammatic model were developed. A two-day sensitization and
preparation workshop was held with 29 persons including the 19
Deputy Superintendents assigned responsibility for CBP in the 19
police divisions. Divisional Managers held meetings with citizens
and annual policing plans were publicized. To strengthen both
Community Policing and Divisional Primacy in the 19 divisions,
183 persons were transferred from other areas/divisions. A
training programme has been developed for Divisional Primacy
Management and Development and 101 officers were trained
while an additional 202 officers are to be trained.
An Anti-Corruption Plan has been prepared. Security Vetting
for senior managers commenced and 50 persons were vetted. The
measures of performance (Performance Indicators) have been
drafted and the development of a programme to sensitize senior
managers about the proposed Performance Management and
Appraisal System commenced. Sixty-nine managers in the JCF
were sensitized on the Corporate Planning and Budgeting Process.
A Management Board was established to oversee three strategic
areas: Crime, Administration and Operations. The Operations and
Crime portfolios were later merged. The redesign of the JCF
Organizational Structure was drafted and will be reviewed. A
model has been developed to refocus and institutionalize the
philosophy and practice in the organization.
Twenty retired police officers were contracted to conduct the
Court of Enquiry. Some 288 cases were being reviewed of which
40 have been proven, 73 not proven and 123 cases are still
outstanding. Of the remaining 52 cases, 7 members are deceased,
7 retired, 6 resigned, and 34 are on suspension and cannot be tried
as per the 1961 Police Service Regulations.
Orderly Room trials were held by Divisional Managers for 165
disciplinary cases (transferred from the Court of Enquiry) which
resulted in 32 convictions. The remaining 133 cases have not yet
been completed. Another 130 Orderly Room matters for various
disciplinary and misconduct incidents were also initiated and dealt
with by Divisional Managers.
Terms of Reference was prepared to engage the services of a
Consultant to review the JCF Legislation and consultations were
held with key stakeholders. A proposal for the merger of the Police
Services Commission (PSC) and Police Civilian Oversight
Authority (PCOA) was prepared and circulated for comments.
Discussions at the political level to establish a bipartisan
committee also commenced.
Basic recruitment training was revamped to provide a more
structured and focused approach to areas of training such as CBP,
human rights, use of force, and sociology. An improved process of
induction and socialization was undertaken with 354 new recruits
at the Twickenham Park and Tranquility Bay training facilities.
The Tutor Constable System was revised and became operational.
Some 72 tutors from the 19 police divisions and Mobile Reserve
were trained and 2 management workshops held.
The programme of civilianizing several areas of JCF’s
operations commenced and 10 civilians were engaged to
work with Crime Stop. Human Resource Directors were
appointed for Areas 3, 4 and 5. Additionally, an Acting
Director of Corporate Services was recruited and job
descriptions were developed for a Deputy Transport
Manager and Property Manager.
Work on the Bath Police Station was completed; while
work on the Darliston, Frankfield, Chapelton, Spaulding,
Kendal, and Lionel Town Police Station in Clarendon, the
Malvern Police Station in St. Elizabeth, and the Castleton
and Porus lockups commenced. Funding was also provided
to upgrade and refurbish the police academy at Twickenham
Park and develop a Tactical Firearm Training Centre.
Wo r k c o mme n c e d o n t h e d e v e l o p me n t o f a
comprehensive internal and external communication plan
for the JCF. The development of an ICT Communication
Network Strategy and Implementation Plan was completed.
A proposal was submitted for the expansion of JCF Internet
and Intranet facilities at the 19 divisional and 5 area
headquarters and will be expanded to include all police
stations islandwide. Work also continued on the
implementation of the IMIS project and the IBM web portal.
Upgrading work has also been done to the JCF’s
communication system islandwide and the process of
providing e-mail addresses for the JCF is near completion.
Discussions were held with the DCS regarding the
transfer of responsibility for transporting prisoners. A
Cabinet Submission was being prepared to transfer the
responsibility at two sites – South Camp Rehabilitation
Centre in St. Andrew and 100 Man Police Station in
Portmore.
Two culture change workshops for members of JCF and
a culture intervention workshop for the JCF Training Branch
were conducted. A committee was established to coordinate
the re-branding of the JCF. Some 2 000 posters and 5 000
flyers on the JCF Citizens’ Charter were printed and
distributed to police stations, post offices, schools and civic
groups.
The main challenges being faced in the implementation
of the JCF Strategic Review were a lack of financial
resources and the need for legislative changes.
Training
The JCF and ISCF continued their training and
development programmes. Some of the areas of training
were: Crime Scene Management; Blood Stain Analysis;
Major Investigation Skills; Station Management; Biological
Evidence; Impression Evidence; Human Remains
Recovery; Safe Encounter; Systematic Search Procedures;
Inspector Management; and CIB Level 1. There were 6 279
participants in the various courses. Additionally, 649
members of the ISCF received firearm retraining from the
Firearm and Tactical Training Unit.
National Security Policy Coordination Unit
The National Security Strategy Implementation Unit
(NSSIU) changed its name to the National Security Policy
Coordination Unit (NSPCU) to reflect its mandate as
indicated by the National Security Policy (NSP). The
activities of the Unit are based on the eight strategic goals
and five special security initiatives that underpin the thrust

of the National Security Policy and establish the notion that
‘National Security is Everyone’s Business.’ The activities of the
NSPCU included:
– improving coordination of activities between Govern-
ment, International Development Partners, civil society
and other stakeholders in the security and justice sector;
– monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the
NSP;
– developing the capacity of the NSPCU staff; and
– developing the national communications programme.
Trafficking In Persons (TIP)
Jamaica was ranked at Tier 2 in the USA Department of State’s
9th Annual Trafficking in Persons Report released on June 12,
which covered the period April 2007 to March 2008. The report
stated that “Jamaica does not fully comply with the minimum
standards for the elimination of trafficking; however it is making
significant efforts to do so.”
The National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons
(NATFATIP) continued to work with a number of stakeholders
throughout the year to achieve its objectives. A TIP Unit was
established in the JCF with five specially trained officers and a
shelter to house victims of trafficking was developed. Public
education, sensitisation and awareness programmes targeting
resort towns and neighbouring areas were held in partnership with
the Jamaica Library Service. The Ministry of Labour and Social
Security (MLSS) established an Inter-Ministerial Work Permit
Committee, with representation from the JCF and other relevant
agencies to review applications for work permits. An Immigration
Intelligence Unit was also established to investigate and track
persons in breach of immigration laws and regulations.
Social Intervention Programmes
The main social intervention programmes are:
Citizens’ Security and Justice Programme
Phase I of the Citizen’s Security and Justice Programme
(CSJP) ended and on December 15, a new Loan Agreement for
Phase II of the programme was signed with the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB), valued at US$21.0 million.
The general objective of Phase II is to contribute to crime and
violence reduction in 28 volatile and vulnerable communities
through the financing of prevention and strategic interventions
that will address individual, family and community risk factors.
The 26 targeted communities that benefited in CSJP I will
continue participating in Phase II, which will be implemented over
a four-year period. The components of Phase II include
community action and institutional strengthening of the MNS and
MOJ4.
The main components of the programme are community
action, capacity building of the MNS and MOJ, criminal justice,
and communications and social marketing. Activities under the
first component included:
4 Activities under the Criminal Justice System component of the programme will be transferred to the Department of Correctional
Services (DCS) for administration.
24.11
– enrolment of 980 youths in Heart/NTA accredited
programmes
– placement of 34 youths on employment internship at
various private and government agencies, of which
13 received permanent employment, mostly in the
private sector
– life skills education and educational enrichment ser-
vices for 6 000 youths
– training and other forms of assistance for 30 com-
munity parenting groups
– enrolment of 300 persons in CXC preparation
classes
– school fee assistance to 220 tertiary and 360 second-
ary level students
– access of 6 000 residents from 15 communities to
benefits such as Birth Certification, Tax Payer Reg-
istration Number (TRN) processing and HIV testing
– renovation and expansion of three community cen-
tres in Granville and Rose Heights in St. James and
Drewsland in Kingston
– implementation of zinc fence removal programmes
in North Gully, Norwood, Bot tom Pen and
Glendevon in St. James
– construction of a multi-purpose court in Cassia
Park, St. Andrew
The main activity under the second component is the
development of an Integrated Management Information
System. During the year, the following were undertaken:
– deployment of computers, software, networking
equipment, network cabling and other related
equipment and services to 14 Major Courts/Head
Stations islandwide to boost the technical capacity
of the MOJ, in preparation for the implementation of
the new Traffic Ticketing System (TTS);
– transcription of data for DCS and the JCF, which is
at least 70.0 per cent complete;
– conduct of User Acceptance testing and training
sessions for systems that are to be implemented in
2010; and
– completion of study on the information technology
requirements for the Justice Sector completed.
Under the third component, the main activity is the
establishment of a Transformation Centre designed to cater
to the rehabilitative needs of short-term, young, male
offenders who would otherwise be placed in high risk
institutions with hardened criminals. Tenders for
construction of the facility were received and are to be
evaluated.
The following were undertaken for the fourth
component:
 24.12
– CSJP web-based interactive newsletter entitled CSJP
News launched;
– An interactive searchable database on the Code of Con-
duct for Police Citizen Relations on the CSJP News site
launched;
– A social mobilization football based programme entitled
‘Goals 4 Life’ to attract at-risk youth into CSJP services
and to become part of community peace and stabilization
efforts developed;
– A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the
Community Safety and Security Branch of the JCF to con-
duct interactive public education initiatives on commu-
nity safety, security and police citizen relations in the 26
CSJP communities; and
– A media service team of CSJP freelance writers con-
tracted to write newspaper stories on events, personali-
ties, movements and groups associated with the CSJP.
Community Security Initiative (CSI)
The Community Security Initiative (CSI) continued in the
communities of Homestead, March Pen Road, Highlight View,
Matthews Lane, Dunkirk, and August Town. A total of 92 persons
completed various HEART Trust/NTA Level 1 and 2 skills
training programmes while another 127 are currently enrolled in
other training programmes. Forty-seven persons from the
Matthews Lane community were attending Caribbean
Examinations Council (CXC) Mathematics and English
Language classes. A total of 890 residents benefited from 24
behaviour modification workshops in protocol and etiquette,
healthy lifestyle, conflict resolution, values and attitude, and life
skills.
Under infrastructural development, a resource centre was
established at the McLeod Basic School in Highlight View, St.
Andrew. The March Pen Road community centre in St. Catherine
was refurbished and furniture provided, and 16 computers and 2
printers provided to the computer laboratory at the Matthew’s
Lane community centre in Kingston. The computers will be used
to provide training in literacy, numeracy, and information and
communication technology skills.
The major challenges faced by the programme were: impact of
gang violence in some of the communities on project
implementation; unavailability of low-skill jobs; and the high
resource outlay required to improve the level of job readiness of
some residents.
Poverty Reduction Programme (PRP II)
The component of the PRP II which focuses on capacity
building and training in communities is being implemented by the
MNS through the CSJP in its 26 communities. The purpose of this
component is to increase and improve the delivery of violence
prevention services to community residents, by improving the
capacity of the community itself to deliver these services,
particularly through existing youth and parents support
organizations. The programme being implemented focuses on
community capacity building and community violence
prevention. The needs of the target communities were determined
through consultations and workshops with 1 160 persons.
Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Local Offenders
and Deported Persons Programme
The Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Offenders and
Deported Persons Programme was developed to provide
support to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS),
reform its institutional processes, target resources to support
more effective reintegration and rehabilitation of offenders
and address resettlement challenges experienced by
deported persons. Arising from the National Security Policy
(NSP) and consultations with key stakeholders the Jamaica
Reducing Re-offending Action Plan (JRRAP) was
developed.
Brief standard operating procedures were developed and
issued to Community Group Homes, an organization that
has been providing accommodation for deportees from both
the UK and USA. A draft of the full standard operating
procedures was submitted to relevant stakeholders for
review. Proposals were submitted through a limited tender
exercise to provide accommodation to deported persons and
homeless local ex-offenders for the period of 2010–2011. A
contract was signed with Open Arms Drop In Centre
Limited to provide long-term accommodation to deported
persons specifically those who are mentally ill. Revision of
the directory of existing partners providing accommodation
for deported persons and local ex-offenders to provide more
details on services offered and clientele served commenced.
Preliminary work has started on the development of a
National Youth Offender Strategy. A Memorandum of
Understanding between the MNS, HEART Trust/NTA and
the National Council on Technical and Vocational Education
and Training (NCTVET) to provide assessment, training
and accreditation for programmes has been drafted. Several
NGOs were identified to provide training in such areas as
farming, carpentry, upholstery and electrical repairs. A
partnership was developed with the National Council on
Drug Abuse to provide medical screening, care packages,
and health and welfare services to deported persons and
ex-offenders.
Jamaica Violence Prevention, Peace and Sustainable
Development Programme (JVPPSD)
The JVPPSD programme was developed in recognition
of the urgent need for coordination of security, justice and
armed violence prevention initiatives in Jamaica, and to
provide strategic support to the GOJ and civil society
partners. The programme has five outputs:
– enhance design of armed violence prevention poli-
cies and programmes;
– increase capacity of institutions to prevent armed
violence and increase community safety;
– increase effectiveness and coherence of interna-
tional support to armed violence prevention policies
and programmes;
– enhance safety in target communities of Jones Town
and Trench Town in Kingston and Granville in St.
James; and
– develop a UN Country Team programme on armed
violence prevention.
A Programme Management Unit (PMU) was established
in the MNS. With assistance from the JVPPSD programme,
a consultant was recruited to develop the National Crime

Prevention and Community Safety Strategy, and a Restorative
Justice Unit established in the Ministry of Justice. Jamaica
Partners for Peace, an online community of practice for
government, NGO, donor and academic stakeholders to exchange
experiences, lessons learned and best practices was launched.
Information fairs, dispute resolution and mediation training were
conducted in all three target communities. Community Safety
Plans were developed for the Jones Town, Trench Town and
Granville communities and Community Development
Committees (CDCs) were established in Jones Town and Trench
Town. Parenting training and police-community activities were
held in these communities.
JAMAICA DEFENCE FORCE (JDF)
Personnel
The JDF is presently established to have a Regular Force
of 3 000 and a Reserve Force of 877. As demands increase due to
the implementation of the Strategic Defence Review and the level
of assistance being given to the JCF in curtailing criminal
activities in the country increases, the need to increase the
personnel strength of the JDF becomes even more evident. The
JDF had a complement of 3 184 persons (187 females) as at
December 31; while this was a little above establishment, the
Reserve Force was some 39.7 per cent below at 529 persons (26
females). There were 219 Officers (39 females) in the Regular
Force and 53 Officers (5 females) in the Reserve Force. A total of
240 persons (all males) were enlisted as regular soldiers; of this
number, 100 passed out in July, and 108 passed out in December.
Additionally, 29 persons were commissioned as Officers, 24 for
the Regular Force and five for the Reserve Force. There were
three deaths during the period. A total of 176 soldiers were
discharged: 67 for termination of engagement; 47 because their
services were no longer required; 16 because final approval of
attestation was withheld; 11 because they were medically unfit or
were desirous of being discharged; 9 for inefficiency during the
first six months; and 7 for end of current termination of service. A
total of 13 persons were on secondment, eight at the Port Authority
of Jamaica, one at Kingfish, two at Jamaica Legion and two
overseas (Antigua, and Trinidad and Tobago).
Strategic Defence Review (SDR)
The SDR shows how the military will contribute to the overall
security policy objectives of the GOJ and addresses a range of
issues such as the way in which the JDF’s mission, task,
capabilities and shape should be adjusted to meet the new strategic
security realities. The SDR is an ongoing task in the JDF and a
number of activities were still outstanding. Some of the activities
undertaken included:
– Command and Control: completed restructuring of the
Force Headquarters and the enhancement of the strategic
function within the existing Headquarters
– JDF Air Wing (JDF AW): completed training of lo cal
pilots
– JDF Coast Guard (JDF CG): completed establishment
for the expansion of the Reserve component
– Engineer Regiment: completed acquisition of new engi-
neer equipment with assistance from the JCF and devel-
oped Artisan training school
– Infantry Capabilities: commenced acquisition of troop
carrying vehicles
24.13
– Service Support: completed establishment of a med-
ical company
– Combat Support and Training: completed establish-
ment of the Caribbean Junior Command Staff Col-
lege (CJCSC)
Operations
The JDF was involved in numerous and varied
operations and projects in support of GOJ policies and
directions despite significant resource constraints.
Operation Intrepid Curtail – Troops provided for cordon
and search operations, surge operations, raids, observation
posts, static guards, curfews, roadblocks, mobile and foot
patrols, and vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) in collaboration
with the JCF.
Operation PURSUIT – Special operations, VCPs, snap
raids, foot and mobile patrols in Police Areas 1, 4, 5 and in
the parish of Clarendon. Personnel facilitated the
compilation of casings, intelligence and analysis. Eight
soldiers were stationed at the Caribbean Search Centre
located at JCF Academy, Twickenham Park in St. Catherine
and provided detailed search assistance on operations.
Operation PURSUIT 2 – Commenced in October to
assist the JCF in conducting operations to reduce violent
crimes in specific areas, through heightened operations on
weekends. The operational activities were limited to the
police divisions of Kingston East, St. Andrew Central, St.
Andrew North, St. Andrew South, St. Catherine
South/North, St. James, and Clarendon. An additional 308
JDF personnel were made available during this time.
Operational activities included:
– targeting of key persons in hot spots;
– assisting the JCF in curtailing movement and activi-
ties of gangs;
– targeting of the two most active gangs with the aim
of arresting gang members;
– establishing and maintaining several high profile
presence along the main arterial routes into and out
of Kingston;
– engaging the media to highlight these enhanced
Joint JDF/JCF activities in order to create an atmo-
sphere of reassurance to the public; and
– monitoring and control of airspace and maritime ar-
eas of jurisdiction.
The JDF AW provided aerial surveillance assistance to
the JCF through coastal surveillance between Portland Bight
and Yallahs, aerial support of VCPs, coverage during patrol
shift changes between the JCF and JDF personnel, and
surveillance of hot spots and providing support to patrols.
The JDF CG provided normal patrols, underwater searches
and patrols between Cow Bay and Grants Pen Area; the
entrance to and within Portland Bight; Port Royal and the
East Channel, Kingston Harbour; and the inshore areas of
Hellshire, St Catherine.
The following are some of the major accomplishments
under Operation PURSUIT and Operation PURSUIT 2: 51
firearms seized (40 in the Kingston Metropolitan Region and
11 in Clarendon and St. James); 10 homemade firearms,
1 231 assorted rounds of ammunition and 37 magazines
 24.14
seized; 9 gunmen killed; 12 vehicles seized; 505 persons arrested;
26 wanted persons held; 2 052 persons detained; approximately
$1.95 million recovered; and a number of electronic items seized
such as cell phones, laptops, computer processing units, cassette
recorders and night vision cameras.
Operation Buccaneer – Conducted by the Moneague Training
Camp (MTC) based Battalion in St. Ann, St. Elizabeth and
Westmoreland. The duties include land reconnaissance, foot
patrols, field security and aerial support. The JDF CG and JDF
AW continue to support this operation. A total of 151
anti-narcotics dive operations and 468 maritime anti-narcotic
missions and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) patrols were done.
Under Operation Buccaneer the JDF seized and/or
destroyed 4 779.28 kg of cured marijuana, 228.12 hectares of
marijuana, 609 208 seedlings, 588.22 kg of marijuana seeds, 28
nurseries, 103 kg of Mash5, 10 drying huts, 5.11 kg of cocaine, and
199 marijuana sticks.
Operation Holdfast – Conducted by the MTC based Battalion,
assistance is provided to the Department of Correctional Services
(DCS) at the Horizon Adult Remand Centre (HARC) to secure
special remandees/high value targets. This operation entails
Security Post Guard, quick reaction force, and escorts for legal
visits, recreational activities within the facility, court visits and
external medical appointments. A total of 19 soldiers were at this
location monitoring nine special remandees/high value targets.
Operations/Other Missions done by JDF AW and JDF CG –
The JDF AW had 1 424 missions totalling 1 545.4 flight hours
while the JDF CG was involved in 314 Maritime law enforcement
operations, 269 fisheries protection missions, and 17 search and
rescue cases.
Other Activities
The Engineer Regiment of the JDF undertook various
projects. Under the ‘Exercise Beyond the Horizons’ Programme
(a joint venture with the United States Military), a building was
constructed at the Portmore Health Centre while, the Sylvia Foote
Basic School, a health centre in St. Thomas and two schools (one
in St. Catherine and the other in St. Thomas) were refurbished.
Other ongoing activities of the Regiment include: the Simón
Bolívar Cultural Centre Project; the Emancipation Square
Upgrading Works; construction of modern changing facilities for
the athletics stadium at the GC Foster College; and the Pedro Cays
fisheries building.
The JDF continued to provide administrative and training
support to the National Youth Service Programme (NYS). Nine
camps were conducted at Chestervale in St. Andrew and Cobbla in
Manchester with 2 740 participants. Non Residential Teacher Aid
Training Camps were held in six parishes and benefited 520. Some
221 persons from various programmes including NYS, Ministry
of Education School Experience Programme, HEART Trust/NTA,
and the CSJP were employed.
The JDF continued to train members both locally and
overseas. Local training programmes include pilot training at the
Jamaica Military Aviation School (JMAS); Caribbean Junior
Command Staff Course (CJCSC) at the MTC; MSc in National
Security and Strategies Studies at the University of the West Indies
and other professional courses. Officers received overseas
5 This is used in the making of Hash Oil
6 The total number of persons admitted includes new admissions and recidivists.
training throughout the period, with the majority undergoing
basic Officer Courses and rotating through intermediate and
advanced training in Infantry and technical fields. There
were 50 overseas courses and the JDF also
conducted/participated in 17 conferences, seminars and
workshops.
Efforts were initiated with the HEART Trust/NTA, the
Ministry of Education, the University Council of Jamaica,
and other accrediting/certifying organizations, to
accredit/certify courses done by JDF personnel both locally
and overseas. The following have been certified by the
HEART Trust/NTA: General Construction; Electrical
Installation; Welding and Fabrication; Medical Assistant;
Medical Technician; and Food Preparation and Catering.
The main challenges which the Force encountered
throughout the year were: the widening of the troop to tasks
gap ratio and insufficient troop transport and patrol vehicles,
personnel protection gear (helmets and vests), and firearms.
PRIVATE SECURITY REGULATION AUTHOR-
ITY
The Private Security Regulation Authority (PSRA)
continued to ensure that private security companies
followed established guidelines for the provision of service.
The proposed amendments to the PSRA Act are before the
Chief Parliamentary Counsel. The PSRA upgraded their
website which included uploading a copy of their
application form thus enabling applicants to complete the
form electronically. Thirty-one new security companies
were registered bringing to 238 the number registered with
the PSRA. In addition, 2 019 guards (36 armed and 1 983
unarmed) were registered. Of the total number of new
guards registered, 74.6 per cent was male. The total number
of registered guards stood at 14 764.
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES
(DCS)
Personnel
The strength of the DCS stood at 2 193 which is 12.7 per
cent below what is required. Of this number, 1 853 (84.4 per
cent) were correctional officers while the remaining 340
were probation officers (includes 138 senior probation
officers). The DCS lost 63 of its members (40 to retirement
and 23 to resignation). A total of 113 new Correctional
Officers were trained and deployed to the institutions.
Custodial and Non-custodial Clients
The adult custodial population as at December 31
was 3 669; 16 less than in 2008 (Table 24.12). The Tower
Street and St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centres, at 94.4
per cent and 54.1 per cent respectively, continued to operate
far above capacity. A total of 1 929 persons (1 748 males)
were incarcerated compared with 1 849 in 20086. Of the total
admissions, 24.2 per cent was for Breaches of the Dangerous
Drugs Act, 19.6 per cent for larceny, 10.3 per cent for
felonious wounding, and 9.2 per cent for Breaches of the
Firearm Act. The majority of females admitted (58.6 per
 24.15

24.15). Approximately 73.9 per cent of recidivists were sent

TABLE 24.12 to SCACC and 22.6 per cent to TSACC (Table 24.16). Males
POPULATION FIGURES AND IDEAL CAPACITY in the 31–40 age group comprised 40.2 per cent of
OF ADULT INSTITUTION AS recidivists. First-time re-offenders accounted for 49.8 per
AT DECEMBER 31, 2009 cent of recidivists, 21.9 per cent re-offended three times,
17.4 per cent re-offended twice and 10.9 per cent
INSTITUTION POPULATION IDEAL re-offended at least four times.
FIGURES CAPACITY
In terms of educational level, 57.0 per cent of total
Tower Street 1 652 850 admissions were regarded as either poor or illiterate, 24.4
St. Catherine 1 310 850 per cent either fair or good, while the remaining 18.6 per cent
Fort Augusta 150 250 was not recorded (Figure 24E). Additionally, 62.2 per cent
Richmond Farm 108 300 of the persons admitted were unskilled, 27.9 per cent skilled
Tamarind Farm 222 350 and 2.4 per cent professionals (Figure 24F). A total of 38
South Camp 213 250 persons were members of the security forces and another 34
New Broughton 14 50 were students.
TOTAL 3 669 2 900 The juvenile custodial population at the end of
December was 395 persons (321 males). Of this number, 319
Source: Department of Correctional Services were on correctional orders and the remaining 76 were on
remand (Table 24.17). The inadequacy of facilities,

TABLE 24.13
TOTAL ADMISSIONS TO ADULT CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS BY OFFENCE, AGE AND SEX 2009
OFFENCES under 17 17-20 21-25 26-30 31-35 36-40 41-45 Over 46 Total Total Total
Male Female
Murder - 3 7 12 7 3 1 2 34 1 35
Manslaughter - 8 6 8 8 6 2 3 40 1 41
Wounding with Intent - 25 35 40 22 24 24 29 185 14 199
Sexual Offences - 10 14 15 24 27 14 16 120 - 120
Offences Against the Person - 8 30 22 17 19 9 8 106 7 113
Burglary - - 2 - - - 1 - 3 - 3
Robbery - 13 19 18 12 3 2 1 68 - 68
Breach of Firearm 1 31 53 38 24 20 6 2 174 - 174
Shooting with Intent - 3 9 5 2 - 0 1 20 - 20
Larceny - 42 57 63 73 55 38 50 362 16 378
Larceny of Motor Vehicle - - 1 - 3 4 - - 8 - 8
Arson - - - - - - - 1 1 - 1
Forgery, Fraud, Embezzlement - - 10 9 16 7 10 17 54 15 69
Unlawful Possession - - 1 1 1 - 1 - 4 - 4
Dangerous Drug Act - 23 77 99 79 65 50 73 360 106 466
Attempted Murder - - - - - - - - - - -
Minor/Other Offences - 9 19 20 22 26 23 28 126 21 147
Traffic Offences - 4 11 17 20 10 9 12 83 - 83

Total 1 179 351 336 330 269 190 243 1 748 181 1 929

Source: Department of Correctional Services

cent) was for Breaches of the Dangerous Drugs Act. Conversely,

20.7 per cent of males admitted were for Larceny, 20.6 per cent for TABLE 24. 14
Breaches of the Dangerous Drugs Act, 10.6 per cent for Felonious TOTAL NEW ADMISSIONS TO ADULT
Wounding, and 10.0 per cent for Breaches of the Firearm Act CORRECTIONAL CENTRES BY AGE, 2009
(Table 24.13).
AGE Tower Street St. Fort Total
Of all admissions, 1 469 persons (1 304 males) were new and ACC Catherine Augusta
460 (444 males) were repeat offenders. Approximately 94.3 per ACC ACC
Under 17 - - - -
cent was Jamaican, 2.5 per cent British National, 0.4 per cent from
17–20 52 99 18 169
Barbados, Canada and Guyana, and 0.3 per cent from the USA and 21–25 83 182 35 300
Trinidad. Looking at new admissions, 64.6 per cent was at the St. 26–30 79 190 31 300
Catherine Adult Correctional Centre (SCACC), 24.2 per cent at 31–35 51 162 24 237
Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre (TSACC) and 11.2 per 36–40 43 113 21 177
cent at Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centre (FAACC). The 41–45 17 84 17 118
number of new admissions under 31 years of age was 52.3 per cent 46 & over 30 119 19 168
down from 54.7 per cent in 2007 and 2008 (Table 24.14). The
largest number of new admissions came from the 21–25 and Total 355 949 165 1 469
26–30 age groups. Recidivists totalled 55 less than in 2008 (Table
Source: Department of Correctional Services
 24.16

TABLE 24.15 housed at the Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centre and
NUMBER OF RE-OFFENDERS ADMITTED TO 210 youths (165 males) were admitted into the island’s
juvenile institutions (Table 24.18). The majority (74.8 per
ADULT INSTITUTIONS BY SEX, 2005-2009
cent) of juveniles admitted was between 14 and 16 years of
YEARS age. Uncontrollable behaviour accounted for the largest
percentage of juveniles admitted (22.9 per cent), followed
SEX 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 by dangerous drugs (11.4 per cent), larceny (9.0 per cent),
wounding (8.6 per cent), and illegal possession of offensive
Males 437 487 371 499 444 weapon and shop/house breaking and larceny (7.6 per cent).
Females 8 9 11 16 16

TOTAL 445 496 382 515 460 Juveniles appearing before the courts totalled 3 586
(68.0 per cent males), compared with 3 293 in 2008 (Table
Source: Department of Correctional Services 24.19). Approximately 28.0 per cent was for care and
protection/child abandonment and 10.0 per cent for
uncontrollable behaviour, while others committed offences
TABLE 24.16 such as ‘wounding/assault/assault occasioning bodily harm’
INCIDENCE OF RECIDIVISM BY AGE AND INSTI- 16.5 per cent, and ‘dangerous drugs’ 7.4 per cent.
TUTIONS, 2009
Community Services
AGE Tower Street St. Catherine Fort Augusta GRAND
GROUP Adult Adult The Community Services Arm of the DCS provides
(Years) Correctional Correctional Correctional TOTAL specialized services through its Probation Aftercare Officers
Centre Centre Centre
to persons sentenced by the Courts and to voluntary/walk-in
17–20 1 9 - 10
clients. Community Services continued to supervise
21–25 12 39 - 51
persons on Court issued orders such as: Probation Order;
26–30 17 48 2 67 Supervision Order; Community Service Order; and
31–35 23 65 4 92 Correctional Order. There were 3 878 new cases (2 425
36–40 22 67 4 93 adults and 1 453 juveniles) compared with 3 411 in 2008
41–45 13 58 1 72 (Table 24.20). Approximately 84.7 per cent of new clients
46 and Over 16 54 5 75 were male. Of all new cases, 50.9 per cent was for Probation
Orders; 31.7 per cent, adults on Community Service Orders;
TOTAL 104 340 15 460 and 5.0 per cent, juveniles on Correctional Order. Males
accounted for 83.0 per cent of persons on Probation Orders.
Source: Department of Correctional Services The number of cases satisfactorily completed was 2 096,
while 1 013 cases were unsatisfactorily completed.
especially those who are high risk, resulted in female juveniles The number of persons voluntarily seeking assistance
being housed at adult facilities. Forty-one female juveniles were from the Community Services section of the DCS increased
by 8.4 per cent to 6 377 (Table 24.21). The main reasons for

Members of the Security Forces

2.0% No occupation/not recorded
Illiterate
9.4% Self Employed 2.0%
Not recorded 1.7%
18.6% Professional
Students 2.4%
1.8%

Skilled
27.9%
Good
7.4%

Poor
Fair 47.6%
17.0%

Unskilled
62.2%

FIGURE 24E: EDUCATIONAL LEVEL OF NEW AD- FIGURE 24F: OCCUPATIONAL STATUS OF NEW
MISSIONS TO ADULT CORRECTIONAL ADMISSIONS TO CORRECTIONAL
CENTRES, 2009 CENTRES, 2009
 24.17

TABLE 24.17 – renovation and furnishing of two hostels at Tower

POPULATION FIGURES Street to facilitate the reintroduction of the hostel
OF JUVENILE INSTITUTION AS AT DECEMBER programme;
31, 2009 – completion of the visitor’s centre at TSACC;
INSTITUTION REMAND SENTENCED – development of prison rules;
Hill Top Juvenile Correctional Centre - 102 – commencement of a management audit of the DCS
Rio Cobre Juvenile Correctional Centre - 143 to inform structure, deployment and management of
Diamond Crest (Armadale JCC) - 36 human resource;
Horizon Adult Remand Centre (Male) 32 -
Horizon Adult Remand Centre (Female) - 2
– implementation of the performance management
Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centre 16 25 appraisal system;
St. Andrew Juvenile Remand Centre 28 11 – commencement of 17 projects in different institu-
TOTAL
tions to improve skills training; and
76 319
– enhancement of a wellness programme through the
Source: Department of Correctional Services donation of gym equipment for selected institutions.

TABLE 24.18
ADMISSION TO JUVENILE INSTITUTIONS BY AGE, SEX AND OFFENCE, 2009
Offences Under 13 years 13 years 14 years 15 years 16 years 17 years Total Male Total Grand
Female Total
Murder/Manslaughter - - - 1 - 3 4 - 4
Wounding - 2 3 4 7 2 15 3 18
Larceny - 1 3 7 4 4 18 1 19
Possession of Offensive Weapon - - 2 4 10 - 13 3 16
Shop/House Breaking/Larceny - 1 5 5 2 3 15 1 16
Breach of Probation Order - 1 - 6 5 1 9 4 13
Dangerous Drug - 3 5 8 2 6 22 2 24
Assault 1 1 3 1 6 5 14 3 17
Sexual Offences - - 2 2 - - 4 - 4
Rape - - - 1 - - 1 - 1
Malicious Destruction of Property - - 1 - 2 1 4 - 4
Robbery - - 2 1 4 1 8 - 8
Illegal Possesion of Firearm - - - 2 3 6 11 - 11
Uncontrollable Behaviour 2 3 11 11 16 5 23 25 48
Variation of Fit Person Order - - 1 - 1 - 1 1 2
Care and Protection - - 1 - - - - 1 1
Traffic Offences - - - 1 - - - - -
Receiving Stolen Property - - 1 - - 0 1 - 1
Others - 1 - 2 - - 2 1 3

Total 3 13 40 67 65 36 165 45 210

Source: Department of Correctional Services

seeking assistance remained the same: Uncontrollable Child (26.5
per cent); Unsatisfactory Behaviour of Parent/Guardian (17.7 per
cent) and Malfunctioning Families (15.4 per cent). However, the
largest category was ‘Other’ with 28.9 per cent. Over the last 10
years, there has been a steady increase in the number of
investigations conducted by Probation After-care Officers to 9
142 in 2009 from 6 227 in 2000 (Figure 24G).
Initiatives
In order to facilitate the custodial and non-custodial care,
supervision, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, a
number of initiatives were undertaken. These included:
– development and implementation of national standards
for community services;
– review of risk/needs assessment and the introduction of
the Risk of Harm tool to complement the Level of Service
Inventory (LSIR) tool;
Some 913 inmates participated in the academic and
vocational programme which included: 35 wards and
inmates who sat the Caribbean Secondary Education
Certificate Examinations, and 18 wards from Hill Top
Juvenile Correctional Centre who received certification in
tiling from the Beechamville Vocational Training Centre. In
addition, 60 inmates from the Tower Street and South Camp
facilities were assessed in adult literacy by the Jamaica
Foundation for Life Long Learning, of which 45 were
successful.
The Hush the Guns project was implemented at the
Diamond Crest and Rio Cobre facilities. The prison radio
continues to inform and educate the inmate population at
Tower Street and work commenced to expand the concept to
the South Camp Road, Fort Augusta, St. Catherine and Rio
Cobre institutions. As part of its rehabilitation programme,
the DCS partnered with the Jamaica Infrastructure
 24.18

TABLE 24.19
REASONS JUVENILES APPEARED BEFORE THE COURT, 2007-2009

MAIN CATEGORIES 2007 2008 2009

OFFENCES M F M F M F
Murder/Manslaughter 8 2 9 0 5 0
Carnal Abuse/Rape/Indecent Assault/Buggery 89 3 111 5 142 2
Robbery/Robbery with Aggravation/Burglary/Larceny/Breaking 198 14 214 16 278 25
False pretences/Fradulent conversion/Forgery 1 0 3 1 5 0
Unlawful Possession/Receiving stolen property 60 1 12 2 21 2
Wounding/Assault/Assault occasioning bodily harm 371 138 416 133 463 128
Dangerous Drugs 186 8 193 14 255 12

Breaking Firearm Law/Armed with offensive weapon/Shooting with intenta 180 28 269 31 374 26

Arson/Malicious destructionb 36 3 51 18 42 16
Breaking Road Traffic Law 19 3 38 0 34 2

Minor and other offencesd 259 284 292 363 194 113

ORDERS
Breach of Probation Order/Variation Order 45 49 44 40 38 45

OTHER
Care and Protection/Child Abandonment/ 464 610 459 559 438 567

Uncontrollable Behaviourc - - - - 150 209

GRAND TOTAL 1 916 1 143 2 111 1 182 2 439 1 147

a figures for 2009 does not include shooting with intent

b figures for 2009 does not include Arson
c data was not received for 2007 & 2008
d includes suspected persons, bestiality and gambling
Source: Department of Correctional Services

10000
Catherine and Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in
Kingston. The programme, being undertaken on 597 acres,
9500
has 245 inmates participating and involves crop production,
9000
animal and poultry rearing, woodwork and block making.
Number of investigations conducted

8500 There was an increase in the production of agricultural and

8000 non-agricultural products.
7500
A number of activities were undertaken to improve
7000 efficiency and increase production such as purchasing new
6500 tools and equipment, and training of participants. Training
6000
was provided for inmates in the areas of crop production and
animal rearing. Some of the individual courses were apiary
5500
culture, bio security, sanitation and packaging of eggs,
5000
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
transplanting technique, soil erosion and land management,
Years irrigation technique, pesticide application/management,
harvesting and post harvesting management,
FIGURE 24G: NUMBER OF CASES INVESTIGATED storage/marketing of different crops, and fertilizer
BY PROBATION OFFICERS, 2000-2009 application.
JUSTICE
Organization (JIO) to clean and maintain Highway 2000 as one
of the projects for the Inmate Public Work Programme. The Courts
CORRECTIONAL SERVICES PRODUCTION With 1 087 cases traversed from previous years and 364
COMPANY LTD (COSPROD) new cases filed, the total caseload heard by the Court of
Appeal was 1 451 (Table 24.22). Of this, 51.3 per cent was
COSPROD Holdings Limited continued training and related to civil matters and 48.6 per cent criminal matters. A
rehabilitating inmates in three of the island’s male adult total of 1 249 cases (956 traversed and 293 new) originated
institutions — Richmond Farm Adult Correctional Centre in St. from the Supreme Court and 262 cases (131 brought forward
Mary, Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre in St. and 71 new) originated from the Resident Magistrate’s (RM)
 24.19

TABLE 24.20
NON-CUSTODIAL SENTENCES BY PARISH AND SEX (NEW CASES), 2009
Probation Supervi- Commu- Correc- Suspended Parole Voluntary Othera Grand
sion Order nity Service tional Sentence Supervi- Total
Order Order Sup. Order sion
Juveniles Adults Juveniles Adults Juveniles Adults Adults Juveniles Adults Juveniles
/Adults
M F M F M F M F M F M F M F M F M F M F
Family Court 252 41 4 - - - 16 1 44 20 1 7 - - - - - - 7 3 396
Eureka Road 25 5 124 33 - - 124 29 - - 54 7 8 - - - - - - - 409
Portmore 39 9 35 10 - 1 130 11 3 1 14 3 5 - - - - - 2 - 263
St. Catherine 67 23 103 38 - - 98 13 5 - 19 3 3 - 2 1 - - - - 375
Clarendon 74 9 44 10 2 3 173 11 23 2 33 2 4 2 7 2 5 1 - - 407
Manchester 61 11 40 7 1 - 156 11 5 1 22 3 4 - - - 2 - 2 - 326
St. Elizabeth 30 5 16 5 - - 60 11 - 1 19 1 3 - 1 - - 1 1 - 153
Westmoreland 57 6 36 7 1 4 18 4 19 2 7 1 1 - - 1 - - - - 164
Hanover 48 5 10 4 1 - 16 5 4 - 4 3 2 - - 1 - - - - 103
Family Court 71 12 24 6 3 - 20 14 27 8 13 1 5 - - - - - - - 204
City Centre
Trelawny 47 5 16 7 1 - 34 6 7 - 30 3 - - - 1 - - - 1 158
St. Ann 60 10 94 28 9 1 100 9 1 2 14 1 3 1 - - - - - - 333
St. Mary 52 6 22 5 1 - 28 3 12 6 10 1 - - 14 - - - 1 - 161
Portland 55 2 28 5 4 - 64 8 1 - 23 3 1 - 6 1 - - 1 - 202
St. Thomas 62 13 44 9 1 2 47 8 1 - 21 4 3 - 6 2 1 - - - 224

Total 1 000 162 640 174 24 11 1 084 144 152 43 284 43 42 3 36 8 8 1 15 4 3 878

a Includes Aftercare/station supervision, aftercare/juvenile and adult institutions and licence for adults and juveniles
M - Males, F- Females
Source: Department of Correctional Services

Court. Of the 1 451 listed, 266 (15.6 per cent) cases were disposed.
Forty (11.6 per cent) new cases and 226 (24.5 per cent) cases
brought forward were disposed. At the end of the year, 1 165 cases
were incomplete, a 7.2 per cent increase when compared with
2008.
In total 2 496 criminal cases were filed in the Supreme Court,
of which 647 (25.9 per cent) were disposed (Table 24.23). The
largest number of cases, 1 238 (49.6 per cent), was filed in the
Home Circuit Court and the smallest number, 38 (1.5 per cent),
filed in the parish of Hanover. The parish of Portland had the
highest case disposal rate, 54.3 per cent, while the Home Circuit
Court had the lowest, 16.6 per cent. In the Gun Court Division of
the Supreme Court, 4 421 cases (3 798 traversed and 623 new)
were filed, of which 582 (13.2 per cent) were disposed. Of the total
number of cases disposed, 36.3 per cent was Acquittals, 27.8 per
cent Convictions, and 25.8 per cent a Lack of Evidence (Table
24.24). A total of 11 347 matters were heard in the Civil Division
of the Supreme Court, of which 4 236 (37.3 per cent) were
disposed by Court Order. The majority of the matters (46.8 per
cent) was heard in Chambers, while 32.0 per cent was heard
in Open Court. The remaining matters were dealt with
through Mediation, noted as Discontinued or considered as
Default Judgements.
The total number of cases listed for hearing in the
island’s RM Courts during the year was 464 308 (Table
24.25). Of this, 271 605 (58.5 per cent) were filed during the
period under review. The majority of the cases listed for
hearing, 409 021 (88.1 per cent), related to criminal matters.
Approximately 47.6 per cent of criminal cases and 39.2 per
cent of civil cases were disposed. Overall, the disposal rate at
the island’s RM Courts was 46.6 per cent. The parish of St.
Catherine again recorded the largest number of Brought
Forward cases, 93 503, a 29.6 per cent increase with 121 162
Carried Forward cases at the end of the year. The RM Courts
in the parishes of St. Mary, Westmoreland and Clarendon
were able to reduce the number of their Carried Forward
cases. The matters Carried Forward in Clarendon were
reduced by 56.1 per cent. Of the 450 cases listed for hearing

TABLE 24.21
PERSONS SEEKING ASSISTANCE, 2005-2009
Nature of Case Year
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Uncontrollable Child 1 850 1 901 1 388 1 601 1 691
Absent Parent/Guardian 238 277 156 185 202
Parent/Guardian's Incapacitation 166 189 127 96 131
Unsatisfactory Behaviour of Parent/Guardian 1 165 1 250 873 941 1 130
Malfunctioning Family 1 295 1 241 778 915 982
Legal Assistance 311 221 187 142 181
Multiple 357 168 170 373 214
Other 811 1 176 1 115 1 629 1 846
Grand Total 6 193 6 423 4 794 5 882 6 377

Source: Department of Correctional Services

 24.20

TABLE 24.22
CASES IN THE COURT OF APPEAL, 2009
Supreme Court Resident Magistrate Total

Categories Civil Criminal Civil Criminal Miscellaneous

Pending Cases as at December 2008 529 427 25 104 2 1 087
New Cases Filed 164 129 27 42 2 364
Disposal of New Cases Filed 15 4 8 12 1 40
Disposal of Pending Cases 76 120 12 18 - 226

Total Cases Disposed 91 124 20 30 1 266

Cases Pending at December 2009 602 432 30 99 2 1 165

Source: Ministry of Justice, Court Statistics

in the Gun Court Division of the RM Court, 228 (50.7 per

TABLE 24.23 cent) were Brought Forward from previous years. A total of
NUMBER OF CRIMINAL CASES FILED 176 cases were disposed, 56 cases were “committed to
AND DISPOSED Circuit Court”, 52 “No Order” and 21 adjourned for no
IN THE SUPREME COURT BY PARISH, 2009 “Prima Facie Case”. At the end of the year, the number of
cases Carried Forward increased to 254.
TOTAL
PARISH FILED DISPOSED The Night Court continued to assist in clearing the case
Home Circuit 1 238 205 backlog. A total of 35 615 cases were filed, of which 21 109
St. Thomas 186 45 (59.3 per cent) were disposed. St. Ann once again had the
Portland 57 31 largest number of cases filed and the Corporate Area had the
St. Mary 66 26 least. St. Catherine had the highest disposal rate (76.5 per
St. Ann 117 36 cent), while St. Ann had the lowest (50.1 per cent).
Hanover 38 20
Trelawny 110 25 The island’s Family Courts heard 36 566 matters during
St. James 143 58 the period; of which 58.5 per cent was heard in the Western
Westmoreland 93 48 Regional Family Court which serves the parishes of St.
St. Elizabeth 99 32 James, Hanover and Westmoreland. Most of the Family
Manchester 92 28 Court matters heard were related to Maintenance matters
Clarendon 143 57 (15 656 cases), which accounted for 42.8 per cent of the total
St. Catherine 114 36
matters heard. Adoption related matters were the least
TOTAL 2 496 647
number of matters heard (0.3 per cent), followed by
Declaration of Paternity (2.4 per cent). Domestic Violence
Source: Ministry of Justice, Court Statistics accounted for 6.9 per cent of all matters heard in the island’s
Family Courts which, though a relatively small percentage,
still remains an issue of serious concern.

TABLE 24.24
CASES IN THE SUPREME COURT DIVISION OF THE GUN COURT, 2009
Quarter ended March Quarter ended June Quarter ended September Quarter ended December Total

Brought Forward 3 709 3 725 3 734 3 735 3 798

New Cases Filed during Period 159 154 160 150 623
Total 3 868 3 879 3 894 3 885 4 421

No Evidence Offered 19 45 44 42 150

Dismissal for Want of Prosecution 5 10 3 - 18
No Prima Facie Case - - 10 2 12
Deceased 4 2 1 4 11
Transferred to other Courts 4 2 - - 6
Bench Warrant 8 - - - 8
No Order Made - - 4 - 4
Acquittals 71 36 54 50 211
Convicted 32 50 43 37 162

Total Disposed 143 145 159 135 582

Pending 3 725 3 734 3 735 3 750 5 003

Source: Ministry of Justice, Court Statistics

 24.21

TABLE 24.25
CASES IN THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATES' COURT, 2009
Brought Forward Cases Filed Total Cases Set for Trial Disposed of Warrants/Arrears
Criminal
Preliminary Exams 13 692 5 636 19 328 2 543 16 785
Indictment 53 096 37 989 91 085 16 301 74 784
RM Summary 45 071 52 855 97 926 36 370 61 556
Petty Sessions 70 938 108 140 179 078 112 464 66 614
Tax Cases 11 355 10 249 21 604 5 349 16 255
Sub total 194 152 214 869 409 021 173 027 235 994
Civil
Plaints 22 740 22 436 45 176 16 803 28 373
Judgement Summons 2 200 4 905 7 105 3 922 3 183
Probates and Administration 776 474 1 250 508 742
Bankruptcy 10 10 20 10 10
Coroners 1 193 543 1 736 456 1 280
Sub total 26 919 28 368 55 287 21 699 33 588

Grand Total Cases 221 071 243 237 464 308 194 726 269 582

Source: Ministry of Justice, Court Statistics

JUSTICE SECTOR REFORM Modernization of Physical Infrastructure

The main activities in the Justice Sector Reform programme
were:
Restorative Justice
Approximately 2 086 persons participated in 23 public
consultations held islandwide on the draft Restorative Justice
Policy. The policy document was revised by a Policy Review
Working Group and submitted to Cabinet.
Restorative Justice Week was observed under the theme:
“Restorative Justice: Going beyond the hurt” and activities
included: youth intervention exercises for 240 students, and a
panel discussion on the topic, “Building Community Support for
Restorative Justice Philosophy and Practices.”
The International Conference on Restorative and Community
Justice was held under the theme “Restorative and Community
Justice Transforming Individual, Family, Community and
Country”. The goal of the conference was to have a cadre of
trained, institutional and community leaders in Restorative
Justice. There were approximately 300 participants.
Tower Hill in St. James was added to the list of communities
earmarked for the piloting of Restorative/Community Justice.
Some 85 residents of Tower Hill attended the three consultations.
The other communities in which Restorative/Community Justice
will be piloted are Granville, St. James; Spanish Town, St.
Catherine; and May Pen, Clarendon.
Specialized Courts
The assessment to determine the efficacy of establishing
specialized problem solving courts which commenced in 2008
was completed and a number of recommendations proposed.
The MOJ acquired a building on King Street in Kingston
for the creation of Justice Square. Justice Square will
accommodate the expansion of the Supreme Court, the
Court of Appeal and the Office of the Director of Public
Prosecutions. It will also facilitate offices for the newly
created Court Management Service (CMS). The upgrading
work for other facilities included: upgrading of court
facilities at Claremont and St. Ann’s Bay, furnishing of the
Port Antonio Court and refurbishing of the Cambridge Court
in St. James. The construction of the Balaclava Courthouse
in St. Elizabeth and a shelter for the victims of Human
Trafficking was also completed. Repairs were made to the
Sutton Street Coroners Court and the Chapelton RM Court.
Automation of the Justice System
The Ministry equipped the 14 court rooms (12 at the
Supreme Court and 2 at the Court of Appeal) with real time
transcription technology. A video conferencing service that
will enable evidence by TV link was also implemented. As it
relates to the Traffic Ticket Management System, 29
computers, 29 UPS devices, 13 Laser jet printers, 13
switches and 50 network points were installed. The main
constraints experienced relate to limited funds, lack of
manpower, and lack of expert knowledge.
Court Management Services (CMS)
Cabinet approval was received to establish the Court
Management Service (CMS), which will give the Chief
Justice control over the budget of the courts and greater
autonomy from the Executive. Funds were allocated for the
establishment of the CMS — now an established
organization in the Civil Service Establishment Act. Hence,
staff to be employed to the CMS can be appointed in
accordance with established guidelines, and staff in the
 24.22
courts and from the Central Ministry7 can be transferred to the
CMS. The CMS’s Structure, in Phase I, consists of 10 new
positions and 38 positions to be transferred from the MOJ. A
recruitment and transition document has been completed to guide
the process.
JUSTICE TRAINING INSTITUTE
The Justice Training Institute (JTI) conducted 34 workshops
and training seminars for 715 persons. Training was geared
towards officers of the Courts, Crown Counsels, Prosecutors, the
Judiciary and public servants in areas relating to Case
Management, Justices of the Peace; Court Management; Criminal
Case Backlog Assessment, Court Reporting; Paralegal Studies;
Justice Administration, and the Traffic Ticket Management
System (TTMS).
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Thirty-three applications for access to official documents
within the Justice Portfolio were processed under the Access to
Information Act. Of this number 33.3 per cent was granted full
access, 21.2 per cent treated as general requests for information,
18.2 per cent transferred to another public authority, 15.2 per cent
was nonexistent, 6.1 per cent denied because of client/ lawyer
privilege and obvious implications for the Privacy Act
respectively. Some 9.1 per cent of the requests were abandoned,
outstanding or not located in the relevant documents. Requests
were from persons overseas (11), members of the public (8),
media houses (8), government entities (3), organizations (2) and
the private bar (1).
Judgement debt charges are awards granted to persons who
have brought cases against the Government of Jamaica. These
payments are usually for errors made by agents of the State. The
total judgement debt payments declined by 17.6 per cent to $126.0
million from $153.0 million in 2008.
The Criminal and Civil Justice Administration Division
(CCJAD) received 11 062 Marriage Licence applications; of this
number, 11 015 were filed during the year and 47 were carried
forward from 2008. Licences were granted to 10 776 couples, 175
were returned for corrections and 111 carried forward to the next
period.
The CCJAD reviewed 1 537 applications for expungement of
criminal records; of which 831 were new applications, 24.7 per
cent less than in 2008. Of those reviewed, 1 227 were approved,
227 returned, 61 deferred and 22 refused.
There were 276 new submissions for the appointment of
Justice of the Peace (167 females). A total of 325 persons (134
males) were appointed, bringing the complement to 5 348.
LEGISLATIVE PROGRAMME
The Ministry continued its work on several pieces of
legislation which were drafted or reviewed. A short list of the
items from the Ministry’s Legislation Programme is as follows:
Enacted and Amended Legislation
– The Jury (Amendment) Act
– The Coroners (Amendment) Act
7 Whose posts have been identified for transfer
– The Carriage by Air (Montreal Convention) Act
– The Jamaica Dairy Development Board Act
– The Constitution (Constituencies) (Amendment)
Act
– The Conch (Export Levy) Act
– The Appropriation Act
– The Factories (Amendment) Act
– The Financial Administration and Audit (Amend-
ment) Act
– The Income Tax (validation and amendment) Act
– Trade (Amendment) Act
– Sexual Offences Act
– Child Pornography Act
– Holiday with Pay Act
– Bank of Jamaica Act
– Customs Act
– The Registration (Strata Titles) (Amendment) Act
Draft Cabinet Submissions
Bail (Amendment): to effect a delay or deferral in the
consideration of bail for 60 days and place the onus on the
accused to justify why bail should be granted.
Bail (Interim Provisions for Specified Offences): to
provide for a person charged with a specific offence to be
entitled to bail only after expiration of 60 days from the date
charged.
Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Constitutional
Amendment) Bill: to amend Chapter 3 of the Constitution to
provide for a Charter of Rights and Freedom.
Constabulary Force Act (Interim Provisions for Arrest
and Detention): to allow the Police to detain persons without
charge for up to 72 hours.
Corruption Prevention (Special Prosecutor):
– to repeal the Corruption (Prevention) Act and the
Parliament (Integrity of Members) Act; and to pro-
vide for the establishment of the Office of the Spe-
cial Prosecutor for Corruption as a Commission of
Parliament.
– to create an offence for the filing of late statutory
declaration; to empower the proposed Commission
to request information from certain Government de-
partments and agencies, including the revenue ser-
vices, banks, financial institutions, building societ-
ies, co-operative societies and registered Accoun-
tants; to mandate the filing of statutory declarations
on the 31st day of December annually or at such
other intervals as the Commission may direct; and to
update the fine imposed under section 6 (2).

Cyber Crime: to provide enabling legislation for handling
criminal activities relating to the internet and computer.
Evidence (Amendment) Bill: to provide for admissibility of
evidence in Criminal and Civil proceedings by way of television
links and; removal of certain procedural requirements for the
admissibility of computer generated evidence in proceedings.
Independent Commission of Investigations: to improve the
current system of investigations into public complaints
concerning misconduct by members of the Security Forces by
repealing the Police Public Complaints Act and appointing an
Independent Commission of Investigations.
Jury (Amendment) (No.2): to provide for majority verdict of
the jury to be accepted in cases of murder where the sentencing
options do not include the death penalty.
Offences against the Person’s (Amendment): to provide for
minimum custodial sentence for a person convicted before Circuit
Court of the offences of shooting with intent to do grievous bodily
harm and wounding with intent, with the use of a firearm.
Bills Being Considered or Approved By Legislation
Committee
Libel and Defamation Laws: To modernise the laws relating to
libel and defamation.
Bills Being Drafted
Constitutional Amendments to provide for:
– Terms of Limits for Prime Minister (Two Consecutive
Terms)
– Removal of Power from the Prime Minister to call elec-
tions
– Establishing fixed election dates
Coroner’s (Amendment) Bill (No. 2): introduction of Court
reporters.
Criminal Justice (Plea Negotiations and Agreements)
Regulations: to provide regulations to support the Criminal Justice
(Plea Negotiations and Agreements) Act 2005.
Legal Aid Act (Amendments)
Legal Aid (Excepted Offences) (Amendment)
Legal Profession (Amendment) Bill No. 1: to provide for
mandatory continuing legal education and intervention by the
General Legal Council in the practice of an Attorney-at-Law.
Obscene Publications (Amendment) Bill: to increase fines and
custodial sentences.
Whistleblower Legislation: to provide enabling legislation to
protect individuals who report corrupt practices and activities.
Background Research Being Done
Administrator-General’s (Amendment) Act: to provide for the
streamlining of the functions of the Administrator General’s
Department.
8 The categories of complaints are higher than the number of complaints because some complaints fall into more than one category.
9 The number of complaints against police officers was less than the number of categories of complaints because some officers were
involved in more than one complaint.
24.23
Committal Proceedings Bill: to make provisions for the
elimination of Committal Proceedings in the Resident
Magistrate’s Courts.
Evidence (Amendment) Bill: to abolish unsworn
statements.
Judicature (Resident Magistrates) (Amendment) Bill: to
facilitate the recording of proceedings in the Resident
Magistrates Court by Official Court Reporters.
Judicature (Supreme Court) (Admiralty Jurisdiction)
Bill: to repeal and replace the Colonial Courts of Admiralty
Act, 1890 (UK), the Administration of Justice Act, 1956 and
the Admiral Jurisdiction (Jamaica) Order in Council, 1962
which collectively govern the admiralty jurisdiction of the
Supreme Court in Jamaica.
Judicature (Supreme Court) (Amendment) Bill: to
facilitate the recording of proceedings in the Supreme Court
by Official Court Reporters.
Jury (Amendment) (No.3): to repeal the provision
relating to special juries.
Law Reform (Notice of Alibi Evidence) Bill: to provide
for the giving of a notice to the Prosecution where the
Defence intends to rely on Alibi Evidence at trial within a
prescribed period from time of arraignment.
Legal Aid (Amendment) Bill (No.1): to make legal aid
available to a person who is charged with any offence,
including an unexpected offence, and who has raised the
defence of alibi.
The Spirit Licence Act: to strengthen and update the
provisions of the legislation.
Whipping and Flogging (Repeal of) Bill: to repeal the
statutory provisions that governs whipping and flogging in
Jamaica.
INPUTS FROM SELECTED GOVERNMENT
AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS
AND VOLUNTEERS
This section reviews the activities of the Police Public
Complaints Authority (PPCA), Office of the Public
Defender (OPD), Victim Support Unit (VSU), Office of the
Political Ombudsman (OPO), and Violence Prevention
Alliance (VPA).
The Police Public Complaints Authority received a
total of 391 complaints, 4.5 per cent more than in 2008. Of
this sum 123 (31.5 per cent) were disposed of with 60.2 per
cent not substantiated, 27.6 per cent referred to the Director
of Public Prosecutions for ruling, and 5.7 per cent referred to
the Commissioner of Police for action or withdrawn. There
were 391 complainants and 550 categories of complaints8.
Assault accounted for 26.7 per cent of the complaints and
Conduct Unbecoming, 26.2 per cent. Complaints against
police personnel totalled 5139 with 56.7 per cent against
officers ranked as Corporal and below. The majority of
complaints (78.5 per cent) was from males.
 24.24
The Office of the Public Defender received 846 complaints
from citizens (59.9 per cent males), approximately 18.9 per cent
less than in 2008. Of these complaints, 27.1 per cent was against
the JCF, 4.4 per cent against the Courts, 6.5 per cent against the
Correctional Services and 14.4 per cent against agencies classified
as ‘Non-authority’. Approximately 18.8 per cent of the cases were
closed. The parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew accounted for
39.6 per cent (335) and St. Catherine 21.9 per cent (185). Five
complaints came from two of the island’s correctional facilities
and 16 were from persons living outside Jamaica.
The Victim Support Unit served 12 096 clients, 18.3 per cent
more than in 2008. Of the number served, 44.0 per cent (5 318)
was new. Of these new clients, 72.2 per cent was female.
Approximately 37.7 per cent of females who sought the assistance
of the VSU were in the 12–18 age group followed by 23.0 per cent
in the 30–44 age group. The main categories of offences for which
clients sought the services of the VSU were: carnal abuse, 15.6 per
cent; rape, 13.0 per cent; domestic violence, 11.1 per cent;
wounding, 11.0 per cent; and ‘other’, 12.8 per cent. Additionally,
16 196 counselling sessions (8 451 new and 7 745 follow up) and
464 meetings that benefited 30 749 persons were held.
The Office of the Political Ombudsman (OPO) is
responsible for monitoring and dealing with concerns related to
the electoral process in Jamaica. During the period the OPO
participated in a number of activities including: monitoring two
by-elections; peace walks in troubled communities; and
discussions about the National Transformation Programme and
the National Integrity Action Forum10.
The Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) is a not-for-profit
organization that works together with major stakeholders
involved in violence prevention, crime reduction, peace building
and community development using an evidence-based approach.
Activities during the year included:
– The Learning Networks (LNW) is an online com-
puter-based literacy and numeracy programme to help
at-risk youth in inner-city commu nities. The VPA
launched eight additional centres to bring the total to fif-
teen. The Community Safety branch of the JCF provided
additional funding for the refurbishing and enhancing of
the LNW centre at the Hannah Town and Admiral Town
Police Stations.
– The analysis of Violence Related Injury (VRI) data and
serious crimes continued with the work of the Crime Ob-
10 A transformation project aimed at changing the high level of corruption prevalent in the society.
servatory. Community Asset Mapping was carried
out in Granville, St. James and maps for Rose Town,
Trench Town and Torrington Park in St. Andrew
were updated.
– The VPA through the Crime Observatory commis-
sioned a study on “Making Communities Safe: Ac-
tivities and Practices Towards Building a Safer
Community” to test what practices in peace mainte-
nance and peace building are existing in communi-
ties and are working or would have been known to
work.
– The VPA also created a directory of churches in or-
der to list church services for use within communi-
ties.
– Work also commenced to develop a volatility range
which will be an index on the typology, strength and
period of implementation of peace building efforts
needed for a community to show improvement.
OUTLOOK
The MNS and MOJ will continue to implement the
various programmes based on the Vision 2030 plan. The
strategies to be implemented are based on the priorities
outlined in the Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy
Framework. Development of the National Crime Prevention
and Community Safety Strategy is slated to be completed by
April 2010. Work will also continue on the Youth Offender
Strategy.
The CSJP will be working with the MOJ to pilot the
establishment of Community Justice Tribunals, and will also
implement a companion programme, funded by the
European Union, comprising capacity building for youth
and parenting groups and other violence prevention
services. Implementation of the new Traffic Ticketing
System, and the Offender Management and Juvenile
Systems are to be completed.
During 2010, the DCS will be improving its
rehabilitation programmes with the assistance of the
Jamaica Reducing Re-offending Action Plan (JRRAP). The
department also plans to fully implement standards for
community supervision and train 350 Correctional Officers
in Prison Management. n
CHAPTER 25
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL
PROTECTION AND CULTURE
INTRODUCTION
D espite grave economic challenges brought on by the global
recession experienced during the year, Government main-
tained its commitment to the social development priorities, and to
the protection of vulnerable groups. Locally, coming on the heels
of the impact of the food price crisis in 2008, the downturn in the
productive sectors influenced by the financial crisis in the devel-
oped countries, created severe fiscal constraints. Government
however sought to maintain developmental gains, while balancing
other social policy imperatives.
Efforts at operationalizing the Vision 2030 Jamaica-National
Development Plan were led by the Planning Institute of Jamaica
(PIOJ), which sought to engage Ministries, Departments and
Agencies (MDAs) of Government in consultations at the sector
plan levels. Social Development sector plans included health,
education and training, social protection, population, culture and
gender; some of these topics are covered in the current chapter.
There were workshops with key stakeholders in an effort to ensure
that agreed strategies and actions were accommodated in relevant
corporate planning and budgeting processes, so that medium-term
targets could be achieved.
Wide stakeholder involvement assisted the preparation of the
National Report of Jamaica on Millennium Development Goals
(MDGs), for the United Nations Economic and Social Council
(UNESCO) Annual Ministerial Review in July. Public health was
a particular focus of the Report, which was coordinated by the
PIOJ.
Services to children, and the strengthening of the institutional
framework for the delivery of pertinent interventions, remained
the focus of the agenda for child development. The year saw the
third year of implementation of the GOJ/UNICEF Country
Programme of Cooperation, with its focus on early childhood
development, the strengthening of institutional mechanisms for
the care and protection of children, and legislative action and
research. Care and protection of children was supported by the
Child Development Agency, the Office of the Children’s Registry,
and the Office of the Children’s Advocate. Several
non-governmental organizations (NGO's) and other partners
continued to lend their support to children’s issues.
With a focus on human capital development, services to youth
emphasized education and training, as well as improving soft
skills and creating employment opportunities. In partnership with
various stakeholders, including non-government and
international development partners, Government’s priority was to
equip young persons with the requisite skills in technical and
vocational areas, and to prepare them for adulthood. Policy
and programmes were led by the Ministry of Youth, Sports
and Culture and the National Centre for Youth
Development, among other partners.
The empowerment of, and promotion of equal
opportunities for persons with disabilities, as well as the
strengthening of policy and legislative frameworks were
important highlights of the year. These were led by the
Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities, with support
from various NGOs and other partners. The promotion of
social inclusion, provision of income support and other
welfare benefits, and continuation of inter-generational
programmes were the highlights of the agenda for senior
citizens. Over the year, gender mainstreaming and equity
remained priorities, and steps were taken to further ensure
that developmental issues pertinent to males were being
sufficiently accommodated within the Bureau of Women’s
Affairs and other partners. The diffusion of gender-based
violence was a high priority issue in terms of research,
outreach and programmes. The Sexual Offences Bill was
passed in Parliament, while two policy documents were
submitted to Cabinet: the Sexual Harassment Bill and the
National Policy for Gender Equality and Women’s
Empowerment.
The Social Protection Project completed its first year in
October, with several achievements under each component.
Executed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security
(MLSS), the project saw continued support to the
development and administration of the Programme of
Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH); the
completion of fieldwork in the recertification of PATH
households; launch of the pilot Steps-to-Work programme;
and initiation of several studies, research and training
projects.
Community development initiatives were spearheaded
through the Social Development Commission (SDC), and
supported by various NGOs, the private sector and
International Development Partners (IDPs). These
programmes and projects were expected to enhance
community assets, provide employment, and build social
capital. The Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) retained
its emphasis on building community social infrastructure,
contributing to improved communities and poverty
reduction.
Various cultural events were commemorated throughout
the year, led by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture,
 25.2

and the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC). The
Institute of Jamaica celebrated 130 years of existence, reiterating
its mandate to secure the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.
Two major heritage projects were undertaken. The JCDC
continued to showcase creative expressions, and to advance the
development programme for the performing arts, in collaboration
with several partners. Cultural activities were also supported by
NGOs, the private sector and other partners, some of which
provided needed funding assistance.
FINANCING1
Under its Recurrent and Capital budgets, the Government
allocated a total of $12.9 billion to major social development,
welfare and cultural programmes in the FY 2009/10, representing
a $0.5 billion (3.8 per cent) decline when compared with the
allocation made to these programmes in the previous financial
year2 (Table 25.1). These programmes were selected from seven
government MDAs. Details of the budget are as follows.
The Child Development Agency (CDA) was allocated
approximately $1.4 billion for the financial year. Of this
amount, $623.4 million was apportioned to Children’s
Homes; $248.9 million to Places of Safety (including grants
to private Places of Safety); $74.5 million to the Foster Care
programme; and $30.0 million to the Office of the Children’s
Registry. An additional $390.9 million went to Direction
and Administration of the CDA. An allocation of $50.6
million was made to the Office of the Children’s Advocate
(OCA), which represents an 18.2 per cent increase over its
FY 2008/09 allocation. The recurrent allocation to the
Ministry of Health (MOH) for the prevention and control of
drug abuse increased to $87.7 million from $77.3 million in
the previous FY. An additional $4.2 million was allocated to
this initiative under the Capital A budget.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) received $2.0 billion
in FY 2009/10 for Student Nutrition. This represents an
increase of $0.3 billion from FY 2008/09. As with the
previous FY, $1.2 billion of this allocation was to the
Traditional Cooked Lunch component of the School

TABLE 25.1
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, WELFARE AND CULTURE
RECURRENT AND CAPITAL BUDGET BY PROGRAMME, 2008/09-2009/10
($'000)

PROGRAMME REVISED ESTIMATES ESTIMATES

2008/2009 2009/2010
RECURRENT
Office of the Prime Minister
Women's Welfare - -

Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culturea

Women's Welfare 178 889.0 181 389.0
Art and Cultureb 864 279.0 767 462.0

Ministry of Labour and Social Security

Social Security and Welfare Services c 1 038 637.0 1 024 984.0
Student Nutrition 12 261.0 13 338.0

Ministry of Health
Prevention and Control of Drug Abuse 77 295.0 87 650.0
Child Development Agency 1 336 078.0 1 367 701.0

Office of the Children's Advocate 42 828.0 50 597.0

Ministry of Education
Student Nutrition 1 659 613.0 1 959 737.0
Youth Services 718 385.0 701 401.0
Social and Economic Support Programme 14 316.0 17 363.0

Office of the Prime Minister (Local Government)

Social Welfare Servicesd 166 939.0 146 386.0
Community Development Services 3 475 849.0 3 115 313.0
Social Security and Welfare Servicese 250 850.0 229 749.0

SUBTOTAL RECURRENT 9 836 219 9 663 070

CONT'D . . .

1 Source: Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, Estimates of Expenditure for the Year Ending 31st March 2010 (As passed).
2 Revised Estimates.
 25.3

TABLE 25.1 cont'd

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, WELFARE AND CULTURE
RECURRENT AND CAPITAL BUDGET BY PROGRAMME, 2008/09-2009/10
($'000)
CAPITAL A
Office of the Prime Minister
Possibility Programme - -

Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culturea

Possibility Programme 10 659.0 12 000.0
Women Welfare 7 100.0 10 400.0

Office of the Cabinet

Social and Economic Support - -

Ministry of Health
Family Services 11 000.0 11 000.0
Prevention and Control of Drug Abuse 2 820.0 4 200.0

Office of the Prime Minister (Local Government)

Community Development Services 1 250 000.0 143 000.0
Social Security and Welfare Servicesf 17 325.0 15 000.0
Social Welfare Servicesg 2 000.0 -

SUBTOTAL CAPITAL A 1 300 904 195 600

CAPITAL B
Ministry of Health
Family Services - -
Prevention and Control of Drug Abuse - -

Ministry of Labour and Social Security

Social Security and Welfare Servicesh 2 224 746.0 3 000 000

SUBTOTAL CAPITAL B 2 224 746.0 3 000 000

GRAND TOTAL 13 361 869 12 858 670

a - Formerly Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sport

b - This function was transferred from the Ministry of Tourism with Effect October 1, 2007
c - Social Security and Welfare services deal with the administration of the National Insurance Scheme
Public Assistance and Food Security programmes for persons with disabilities and the elderly
d - Social Welfare Services include provisions such as poor relief services through the Board of Supervision
to elderly poor in Golden Age Homes and Infirmaries, as well as the Homeless
e - Refers to Social Security and Welfare provisions under Local Government Administration
f - This is a grant to Parish Councils for Poor Relief Services
g - This allocation is for the maintenance of building and houses at the Vineyard Town Golden Age Home
h - Provision for the PATH, the Social Protection Project (IBRD), Steps to Work and the Social Protection to Food Price Crisis (IDB)
Source: Estimates of Expenditure for Year Ending March 2010
(As Passed)

Feeding Programme; the remainder was allocated to Nutrition
Products Limited, which is responsible for the Nutri-bun
component. Of the amount allocated to Student Nutrition,
provisions were made to the School Feeding Unit for lunch
assistance to 119 000 PATH beneficiaries (see chapter on
Education). Within the MOE, the allocation to Youth
Development Services, through the National Youth Service
(NYS) was $701.4 million compared with $718.4 million in
the previous FY.
Within the budget of the MLSS, Social Security and
Welfare Services were allocated approximately $1.0 billion
in the recurrent budget for FY 2009/10, similar to the
allocation for FY 2008/09. Under the Capital B budget, a
combined allocation of $3.0 billion was made to the Social
 25.4
Protection Project (IBRD) and the Social Protection to Food Price
Crisis Project (IDB). This provision includes allocation to PATH,
Steps to Work, inter alia3. An allocation of $146.4 million from
the recurrent budget was made to the Department of Local
Government in the Office of the Prime Minister for Social Welfare
Services. These services include care for the elderly poor in
Golden Age Homes and care for the homeless/street people. The
allocation also covers administrative expenses of the Board of
Supervision, which has responsibility for the Poor Relief. The
Department also received an allocation of $229.7 million for
grants to Parish Council for the operation of infirmaries. An
additional $143.0 million was apportioned to the Department for
community development services, under the Capital A budget.
This includes allocations for disaster management, fire protection
services and national solid waste management.
An allocation of $767.5 million was made to the Ministry of
Youth, Sports and Culture4 for the promotion of Arts and Culture;
a reduction of $96.8 million compared with the 2008/09
allocation. Of this amount approximately $281.8 million (30.6 per
cent) was allocated to the Jamaica Cultural Development
Commission (JCDC), which has responsibility for cultural
development programmes. Of the total allocation, the Jamaica
National Heritage Trust received $163.4 million; $320.2 million
went to the Institute of Jamaica, $1.5 million to the National
Council on Cultural Affairs, and an additional $0.5 million was
allocated as grants. The Ministry also received a provision of
$181.4 million, for women’s welfare. This includes provisions to
the Bureau of Women’s Affairs and the Women’s Centre of
Jamaica Foundation.
PERFORMANCE
OVERARCHING ISSUES
Inter-sectoral collaboration continued to play an important
role in building networks, sharing knowledge, expertise and
experience, and providing direction for the best use of social
development resources over the year. Two overarching sets of
activities were the advances made in implementation of the Vision
2030 Jamaica-National Development Plan, and the preparation of
the country’s Report on the status of attainment of the MDGs. Led
by the PIOJ, several consultations with public bodies, including
MDAs of Government, civic bodies, private sector interests, and
others were held. These consultations were to further educate the
nation on the long-term development plan, and to begin the
process of incorporating specific strategies and activities within
corporate planning and budgeting processes, and in the context of
the three-year Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy Framework
2009–2012. Public education was also enhanced through use of
local print and electronic media. The PIOJ also advanced the
finalization of the sector plans, which contain sector-level
strategies and activities that support medium- and long-term
goals.
The status Report on the MDGs — National Report of Jamaica
on Millennium Development Goals — was completed in July.
While addressing in a summary way all of the Millennium goals,
the document focused specifically on aspects of the health-related
goals. The Report indicated that the country had made good
progress in eight of the fourteen MDG targets including achieving
targeted reductions in absolute poverty. Although overall health
3 Details of the Social Protection Project and the Social Protection to Food Price Crisis Project (IDB) are in the Social Protection
section of this chapter.
4 Formerly Ministry of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports (MICYS)
status was good, and the Report indicated best practice
models existed in the areas of primary care, there were
challenges brought about by shortage of human resources,
violence and its impact on the health services and risky
behaviour among youth. The country was on track with
combating HIV/AIDS, halting and reversing the incidence
of malaria and tuberculosis, improving access to
reproductive health, and provision of safe drinking water
and sanitation. The areas that were lagging were gender
equality and environmental sustainability, while child and
maternal mortality targets were reportedly ‘far behind’. The
Report gave special focus to issues of public health, and
spoke to the shortage of professional staff, such as nurses,
pharmacists and other medical personnel, as well as a lack of
equipment in some health centres. It indicated that the MOH
was preparing a framework for a renewed primary
health-care strategy, since primary health care is critical to
several of the MDGs. Mental health and the financing of
health care were also reviewed in the Report.
CHILDREN (0 TO < 18 YRS)
Children accounted for 34.9 per cent of the total
population, with 483 200 being males and 459 700 females
(see chapter on Population). Efforts were made to maintain
the gains achieved in the areas of child protection, provision
and participation. These included continued focus on early
childhood development, the strengthening of institutional
mechanisms for the care and protection of children, and
legislative action and research in the area. Efforts were also
made to protect the most vulnerable including those in
conflict with the law, orphaned, and subjected to sexual
abuse.
The Government’s programme for child development
was implemented with the support of its partners including
the private sector, NGOs, Community-Based Organizations
(CBOs) and IDPs. The GOJ/UNICEF Country Programme
Action Plan (CPAP) 2007–2011 was one of the main
partnerships that continued to be implemented and covered
programmes in the areas of Children and HIV/AIDS, Child
Protection, Advocacy, Public Policy and Partnerships, and
Quality Education and Early Childhood Development.
Policy, Legislation and Research
Among the policy and legislative achievements for the
year were the advancement of the National Parenting Policy
to a White Paper and the finalization of the National
Parenting Support Commission Bill which was awaiting
approval from the Cabinet at year end. The Management of
HIV in Schools Policy and the Health and Family Life
Education Policy were revised and a Situational Analysis on
National Strategic Plan for Adolescents and
Pre-Adolescents finalized. In the area of child protection,
work advanced on the drafting of a National Safe Schools
Policy along with the finalization of a National Behaviour
Management toolkit, which includes a Positive Discipline
Manual to be used in institutions with high levels of
behavioural problems. Research was conducted to inform
further amendments to the Evidence (Amendment) Act to

facilitate the giving of evidence by vulnerable victims and
witnesses, especially children, in order to reduce trauma and
prevent re-victimization. Facilitated by the Ministry of Justice’s
Monitoring and Evaluation Project, the revision of the National
Plan of Action on Child Justice commenced.
Under the Advocacy, Public Policy and Partnership
component of the GOJ/UNICEF programme, the National
Framework of Action for Children 2009–2013 was revised, in
consultation with the PIOJ, UNICEF, CDA and other partners, and
submitted to Cabinet for approval. The component on Quality
Education and Early Childhood Development saw the completion
of a baseline study for the implementation of two Exclusive
Breastfeeding pilot projects.
In keeping with one of its core functions to review the
adequacy and effectiveness of law and practices relating to
children’s rights, the Office of the Children’s Advocate (OCA)
reviewed laws and policies and made submissions on the Sexual
Offences Bill, the National Parenting Policy and the Parenting
Support Commission. The OCA also contributed to policy
development in several areas including the MOE’s Special
Education Policy, the Child Pornography Act and the Sexual
Offenders Registry.
Child-focused research and improvements to data
capacities to improve policy formulation continued. The Fourth
Caribbean Child Research Conference5, entitled “Global Crises:
The Impact on Our Children”, was held in October in
commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the CRC and featured
only child presenters. Nine presentations were made from which a
female student from Dunoon Park Technical High School was
awarded the Most Outstanding Child Researcher for the year. Her
research paper was entitled: “An Examination of the Effects of
Migration on the Behaviour of Students”. Other topics addressed
by the presenters included effects of child abuse, abortion, street
children, and teenagers and religion. Over 300 persons
participated in the event which facilitated increased knowledge of
practitioners and other stakeholders, showcased the work of
child-researchers while promoting child participation. The Global
Child Poverty Study produced by UNICEF was also launched
during the Conference. Prior to the Conference, two workshops
were held for teachers at the primary and secondary levels to
increase their awareness regarding the Convention on the Rights
of the Child (CRC). Some 140 teachers participated in the
workshops.
A “Needs Assessment of the Children of the Portland Crash
Victims” and “Children in Jamaica: Twenty Years after the
Convention on the Rights of the Child” were among the pieces of
research conducted by the OCA. The assessment was done in
collaboration with the MLSS and identified the needs of the
children and gaps in the services that were being provided by the
GOJ through the Department of Local Government. The study
highlighted issues related to health, education and housing needs
of some of the children. The report was submitted to the Minister
with responsibility for Local Government and the committee
charged with the responsibility to manage and oversee the
Portland Crash6 Victim Fund. A comprehensive report on the
CRC was conducted in partnership with UNICEF on the progress
5 The event was hosted by the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES), in collaboration with the: United
Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF); Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ); Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ); Early
Childhood Commission (ECC); Office of the Children’s Advocate (OCA); Caribbean Child Development Centre (CCDC);
University of the West Indies (UWI); Office of Children’s Registry (OCR); Jamaica Coalition on the Rights of the Child (JCRC);
Child Development Agency (CDA); and the Ministry of Education (MOE).
6 In December 2008, 14 persons died in a traffic accident in Portland.
25.5
of Jamaican children since the adoption and ratification of
the CRC. It examined the provision, protection and
participation rights of children in Jamaica and highlighted
successes and gaps in the child sector. It also identified the
threats to child rights such as the economic recession,
violence and abuse, poverty, migration, inappropriate use of
media and technology and weakening communal support.
The final report was tabled in Parliament and presented to
over 100 stakeholders at an event commemorating the 20th
year of the CRC.
Additionally, the OCA undertook research on the
“Implication of Early Sexual Initiation and the Rights of the
Child” which was published in the MOE’s Torch Magazine.
Studies on the Foster Care Programme in Jamaica and
Experiences of Children in State Care who appear before the
courts were also updated and finalized by the OCA.
Other studies undertaken and completed during the year
— “Children in Jamaica: the Impact of Migration and
Remittances” and “Child Poverty and Disparities in
Jamaica” — were conducted by UNICEF in collaboration
with the PIOJ. The study on migration and remittances was
finalized to inform the development of a National Policy on
International Migration and Development (see chapter on
Population).
Improvements in data and research capacity were further
strengthened with the updating of JamStats 2009 database
by the PIOJ. The database currently contains data on 239
indicators. During the year 32 professionals were trained as
trainers and JamStats database administrators. Over 50
students were also sensitized in the use of the database. The
EduStats database which is managed by the MOE was also
updated.
The promotion of child participation was facilitated by
the CDA and other agencies. The CDA commenced work on
the development of a Child Engagement Guide, a Children’s
Panel and guidelines for the strengthening of Children’s
Councils within government and privately operated
children’s homes. Child participation was facilitated
through their engagement in discussions surrounding issues
for inclusion in Jamaica’s periodic country report to the UN
Committee on the Rights of the Child. Over 300 children
participated in these sessions (60 were in State care). The
topics discussed included Civil Rights and Freedoms,
Family Environment and Alternative Care, Education,
Leisure, and Cultural Activities. Twenty children in State
care also participated in the CDA’s corporate strategic plan
child engagement session during the period. Sixty children
also participated in examining the usability and
child-friendliness of a new instrument developed by the
CDA — the Life in Care Exit Interview — to be
administered to clients six months before or after exiting the
child protection system. Other child participation initiatives
include the establishment of a partnership between the
Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network and UNICEF to develop
the Jamaica Youth Advocacy and Partnership Initiative for
 25.6
2010; and the training of 60 Youth Parliamentarians in advocacy.
Several public education and sensitization initiatives were also
undertaken by relevant child protection agencies to build
awareness of the rights of the child and encourage behaviour
change. These include the development of a public education
strategy to promote effective parenting; public lectures; and radio
broadcasts and television interviews.
Early Childhood Development (ECD)
The GOJ continued to support early childhood development as
a key strategic priority for national development. This included
the implementation of the second year of the National Strategic
Plan (NSP) for ECD 2008–2013 which involves the GOJ/World
Bank Jamaica Early Childhood Development Project supported
by a loan of US$15.0 million from the World Bank. The actions
under this NSP for Early Childhood Development include:
improving parenting and education support; providing
preventative health care for children; developing a policy for
screening, referral and early intervention; promoting safe,
learner-centred facilities; training practitioners; reorganizing the
Early Childhood Commission (ECC); and supporting database
management.
The major achievements under the NSP during the year
included:
— the development and approval of a Child Health and
Development Passport (CHDP) in June. The MOH and
the ECC began training senior medical officers in the
use of the CHDP. Discussions also began regarding as-
signing a unique identification number to the CHDP;
— efforts towards the development of a strategy to support
the inclusion of children with special needs (including
children with HIV/AIDS and developmental delays) in
early childhood institutions (ECIs). A two-day consul-
tation was held for parents of children with special
needs and representatives of ECIs and NGOs which
provide services for these children. The objectives of
the workshop were to analyse the legal requirements
for the provision of inclusive ECD services; to assess
the challenges faced by parents in accessing the ser-
vices for their children; and to identify the challenges
faced by ECIs in providing special needs services. A
Level III Qualification Plan and Competency Stan-
dards for the training of EC Practitioners in ECD Spe-
cial Needs were developed. Education officers and lec-
turers were also trained in how to plan and implement
programmes for children with special needs;
— endorsement and approval of a proposal by the Council
of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS) to train 650 ECI
practitioners islandwide;
— the revision of Level II ECD curriculum and the devel-
opment of Level III curriculum in Early Childhood Ad-
ministration for the training of EC Practitioners. This
was a collaborative effort between the ECC and the
HEART Trust/NTA. The first batch of ECI practitio-
ners were trained in Early Childhood Administration at
the Portmore HEART/NTA Academy;
— the establishment of an Intersectoral Planning
Committee to monitor the implementation of the NSP.
This committee consists of representatives of each
agency responsible for the implementation of the NSP.
Additionally, MOUs were signed by the ECC with the
PIOJ, MOE, MLSS and the HEART Trust/NTA.
The MOUs outlined the activities that were
scheduled to be completed by each agency under
the NSP for FY 2009/10.
In the area of training, sensitization and public
awareness, the ECC held its annual conference under the
theme “Promoting Positive Behaviour”. The objective of
the conference was to expose ECD practitioners to
alternatives to corporal punishment as well as mechanisms
to reduce negative behaviour in young children.
Practitioners were also trained to identify the antecedents to
negative behaviours as well as global factors that result in
negative behaviours in children. As a part of Parent Month
activities, a national Public Awareness Parenting Campaign
called the 3Ps was developed and launched in November.
Public Education material developed under this campaign
included: a television commercial; a 12-part radio drama
series; 4 radio jingles; and 3 posters which covered the areas
of positive parenting, community partnerships with ECIs,
and the functions of the ECC.
The MOH, with support from UNICEF, launched the
islandwide implementation of the Safe Motherhood
Programme. In support of this initiative, 153 health
professionals were trained in the principle and practice of
Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF). A National
Breastfeeding Advocate was appointed and a
comprehensive programme of engagement was developed
for 2009 through 2010.
Rehabilitation and stimulation of children 0–6 years old
with disabilities continued to be undertaken by the Early
Stimulation Programme of the MLSS. The Programme
operates largely within Kingston and St. Andrew and is
extended to Portland, St. Catherine, St. Mary and Clarendon
through its Child Development Officers. In an effort to better
reach and serve its clients, the Early Stimulation Programme
established the Stimulation Plus Childhood Development
Centre in Kingston. The total number of students increased
to 88 (54 boys) from 18 in September when the pre-school
was started.
Children at Risk
Children experiencing and exposed to significant risk of
violence and abuse continued to be served by several entities
including the CDA, OCA and the OCR. The CDA has
overall responsibility for the care and protection of children.
For FY 2009/10 the Agency received and processed 7 693
reports through its Intake Services. Children who were
deemed uncontrollable or displaying behaviour
management problems (4 204), Physical Abuse (412),
Sexual Abuse (361), and Abandonment (79), were the
majority of cases. The remainder of reports included
instances of neglect, requests for financial and other
assistance, and requests for one-off counselling and other
investigations. Of the reported cases, where there was a clear
indication that a child was in need of care and protection,
they were investigated by the CDA and either treated in
office, referred to allied agencies, or referred to the courts for
action. Through its Investigation Unit, 30.4 per cent of the
total number of reports received was investigated and action
taken.
At the end of the year, there were 5 961 children in state
care; of this amount 3 440 (57.7 per cent) were residing in a
‘Living in Family Environment’ placement (Foster Care,
 25.7

TABLE 25.2
CHILDREN IN CARE BREAKDOWN BY SEX PER REGION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2009
*
Region Foster Care Family Children's Home Places of Safety Supervision Order
Reintegration
M F M F M F M F M F
South East 172 191 220 257 684 514 46 127 189 381
North East 108 126 58 51 90 51 34 33 96 144
Southern 77 88 77 78 149 119 44 53 59 80
Western 205 216 123 89 194 120 27 47 159 196
Total 562 621 478 475 1 117 804 151 260 503 801
Grand Total 1 183 953 1 921 411 1 304

* Formerly Home on Trial

Source: Child Development Agency

Family Reintegration, and at home on Supervision Order). The
remaining 2 521 children were in the 60 private and government
operated Children’s Homes and Places of Safety (Table 25.2 and
Table 25.3). Under the licensing and regulation system for
Children’s Homes developed in 2008, some 50 private children’s
homes and places of safety were issued with licences to operate.
Work was also advanced for the establishment of an inspectorate
body to conduct site inspection and audit of privately operated
residential child-care facilities (children’s homes and places of
safety).
A number of maintenance, renovation works/repairs and
replacement to equipment and plant infrastructure, totalling
approximately $7.5 million, were conducted at children’s homes
and places of safety; with some facilities receiving pest control
and sewage maintenance services. This figure included cost of
renovations of the dormitory at the Mannings Boys’ Home which
was funded by Environmental Foundation of Jamaica in the
amount of $7.0 million.
The CDA undertook a number of measures to improve the
lives of children including work on the Task Force on Child Abuse
TABLE 25.3
CHILDREN POPULATION IN GOVERNMENT-RUN
INSTITUTIONS, 2009
and Prevention, the establishment of Children and Family
Support Unit and the review and development of Care Plan
templates. The CDA continued to provide leadership to the
Task Force on Child Abuse Prevention; and in partnership
with the Department of Local Government launched the
Ananda Alert system, an effort by the Government to track
missing children. The Task Force in partnership with several
government and non-government stakeholders coordinated
the staging of an information fair and mini exhibition and a
child health and safety forum as part of its Child Month
activities. Over 2 400 children, parents and teachers
participated in these two activities. The Task Force also
examined the situation of street and working children and
explored possible measures to address the situation. The
C D A , w it h t h e s u p p o r t o f s ev e r a l N G O s , a ls o
commemorated World Day for the Prevention of Child
Abuse with a Candle Light Vigil in which over 150 children
participated. The Children and Family Support Unit is aimed
at providing intervention for vulnerable children and
families in order to keep children within families and
prevent them from entering the child protection system. At
year-end, the Unit provided service to over 190 families and
220 children. Eighty-one referrals were made to social
protection agencies and NGOs including the MLSS, Food
for the Poor and Mico Youth Counselling Centre.

Count
Some 114 children in state care were placed in High
Institutions
Schools following performance in the Grade Six
38
Achievement Test (GSAT). Approximately 83 students who
Windsor Girls’ Home
sat examinations at the secondary level were successful in
Summerfield Boys’ Home 40
one or more subjects. The CDA began discussions with
Muirton Boys’ Home 24 private sector and other organizations to gain access to
Manning Boys’ Home 25 software and other tools to prepare students for the relevant
Copse Place of Safety* - 2011 examinations.
Granville Place of Safety 58
48
During the year, the OCR, which receives and records
St. Augustine Place of Safety
reports of child abuse and neglect, received approximately
Homestead Place of Safety 49
6 150 reports, representing an increase of about 51.9 per cent
Glenhope Place of Safety 80
compared with the previous year. The Registry also noted a
Marigold Child Care Centre 39 similar increase in the number of reports handled on a
Blossom Gardens Child Care Centre 54 monthly basis, when compared with 2008. The OCR
Glenhope Child Care Centre 48 attributes the marked increase in the number of reports over
Total 503 its three-year period of operation, to an increased awareness
of the public about the OCR. The increase could also be
* Facility closed for major repairs attributed to citizens’ recognition of their legal obligation to
report known or suspected incidents of child abuse and
Source: Child Development Agency neglect, as stipulated in the Child Care and Protection Act
 25.8
(CCPA 2004). Since inception, the OCR has received in excess of
10 000 reports of child abuse and neglect in Jamaica. These reports
translated into twice as many incidents of abuse, in that, in a single
report, a child may have been subjected to several forms/incidents
of abuse (for example, physical, sexual and emotional abuse).
As part of its public education programme, the OCR hosted
over 20 consultations and made over 30 presentations to various
groups. Over 20 media interviews were conducted, three public
service announcements released, several news articles were
published in the print media, and advertisements printed in the
telephone directory encouraging persons to report child abuse.
OCR also held a series of consultations with key stakeholders
including over 100 prescribed persons (mandatory reporters) from
the MOH, MOE and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
The OCA continued to implement its mandate to protect and
enforce children’s rights. For the period April to December 2009
the OCA received 326 direct complaints from children and on
behalf of children. The complaints were received via various
media including walk-in reports, telephone calls and written
reports. Reports were also made at public education seminars and
others were identified through the mass media. The majority (52.0
per cent) of the complaints were about child abuse and the need for
child care and protection. Complaints were also received against
relevant authorities in the areas of education, health, national
security and child-care institutions. Education-related complaints,
the second largest category, accounted for 17.0 per cent of the total
number of complaints. Of the complaints received, 142 were
assigned to the Investigation Unit. In addition to the direct
complaints received by the OCA, 49 cases were received from the
Office of the Children’s Registry. These involved complaints
against relevant authorities with most of the cases relating to
educational matters and physical and sexual abuse.
Of the reports received by the OCA, approximately 136 cases
were being investigated; 48 cases were completed; and 375 cases
were reviewed for jurisdiction. Among the referrals made, 28
were to the CDA and 5 to the Centre for Investigation of Sexual
Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA). As a result of the OCA’s
referrals and intervention, five children received medical
assistance and six were conditionally returned to school; three
adults were disciplined and six were arrested. Representations for
47 children in the areas of legal guardianship, child labour, health
care and cruelty to children were made by OCA Legal Officers.
Submissions were also made to the court on behalf of children, for
example, on the law in relation to a child having dual citizenship,
custody and maintenance of children, carnal abuse, and care and
protection of children. The OCA also made a total of 67 field visits
to schools, hospitals, child-care facilities, and correctional
institutions where children were housed.
The promotion of the rights and responsibilities of children
and the Child Care and Protection Act were also a focus of the
OCA. Some 60 public education seminars/engagements were
held. The Office also partnered with the OCR, consulting with the
Police in over seven Divisions, where challenges were highlighted
such as the limited capacity of Places of Safety and Remand
Centres for children. These matters were also brought to the
attention of the relevant authorities. Investigations into the fire at
the Armadale Juvenile Detention Centre in May, which resulted in
the death of seven children, were conducted by the OCA. A
Commission of Enquiry into the incident was convened by the
Government with the involvement of the OCA. A legal council
was contracted by the OCA for the Enquiry to ensure that the ‘best
interest of the child’ was being protected. Over 50 statements were
collected from the wards that were in the institution at the time of
the fire. Several legal opinions and submissions were also made by
the OCA’s Legal Department in preparation for the Enquiry.
The Armadale incident also resulted in the establishment in
July of a Task Force on Residential Sector Reform by the
Prime Minister to identify gaps in service delivery in
residential facilities.
Steps were taken by the GOJ through the MOH, in
partnership with UNICEF, to increase awareness about the
prevention of HIV/AIDS among children and adolescents.
Among the activities undertaken was the dissemination of
adolescent-friendly HIV prevention information and skills
through the Bashy Bus Mobile HIV prevention service.
Over 31 000 children between 9 and 18 years (19 057 girls)
in St. Ann, St. James and St. Catherine accessed this service.
As at October, 1 627 adolescents and youth between 12 and
24 years (1 063 girls) also accessed voluntary and
confidential counselling and testing (VCCT) through the
Bashy Bus Mobile HIV prevention service. The move to
increase adolescent-friendly spaces and services was
boosted with the addition of a new mobile HIV prevention
unit and the establishment of the Marcus Garvey Youth
Information Centre in St. Ann.
Child and adolescent mental health services were
provided by the Child Guidance Clinics (CGC) of the MOH.
Over 7 600 client visits were recorded islandwide. The CGC
also collaborated with other units and agencies such as the
Adolescent Unit (MOH) and the Guidance and Counselling
Unit of the MOE to extend the reach of its services. Three
workshops targeting school and health professionals were
held with a total of 400 participants. A curriculum for a
Fellowship in Child and Youth Psychiatry was developed
and accepted by the University of the West Indies. The CGC
also partnered with the Department of Sociology,
Psychology and Social Work, UWI to host a workshop for
final year psychology and social work students.
YOUTH (15 TO 24 YEARS)
The Government, in partnership with various
stakeholders, continued to promote opportunities for the
development of youth. The primary focus of these
programmes was to equip young people with the requisite
training in technical and vocational areas and to empower
them with the necessary skills needed to make the transition
to adulthood. The youth population totalled 457 400 (16.9
per cent of the total population), an increase of 600 since
2008.
Policy and Programmes
Guided by the National Youth Policy (2004), the
National Centre for Youth Development (NCYD) in
collaboration with a range of agencies continued to
coordinate programmes and activities related to youth
development. Highlights of the year are presented below:
— There were increases in visits at the Kingston
YIC (by 39.0 per cent to 7 276); the Port Maria
YIC (by 14.3 per cent to 3 967); and the Portland
YIC (by 2.2 per cent to 28 178). There was a de-
cline in the visits to the Portmore YIC (16.2 per
cent to 8 212), while the Montego Bay YIC,
which opened on March 12, was visited 8 206
times.
— National Student Council Week was observed
from February 15 to 21 under the theme “Em-
powered for Change”. Activities included the

staging of fundraising activities and training work-
shops at participating schools, where student council-
lors were trained in leadership and advocacy as well as
in the roles and responsibilities of councillors. Papers
on drug abuse among students, inappropriate sexual ac-
tivity among youth and youth advocacy were presented
at the Students’ Council Week Conference held at Troy
High School which had approximately 500 students
from schools islandwide participating.
— The National Secondary Students’ Council (NSSC)
elections were held with the use of electronic voting.
The full complement of 22 officers was elected. The
number of students nominated was 129 and the voter
turnout was 93.0 per cent.
— Youth leadership continued to be promoted through the
Jamaica Youth Ambassadors Programme (JAYAP), the
primary aim of which is to enable the nation’s youth to
put forward their concerns, needs and successes. Under
the programme, youth ambassadors serve on several
boards and committees including the Violence Preven-
tion Alliance; BEST Communities; and UNESCO Ad-
visory Committees on Education, Social & Human Sci-
ence, Culture, Science, Communication and Informa-
tion. The current Youth Ambassador Corps comprising
seven males and seven females participated in several
media fora, speaking on issues affecting youth.
— November was celebrated as National Youth Month.
The activities of Youth Month serve to celebrate and
highlight the successes, abilities, creativity and talent
of our youth, and provide young people with the oppor-
tunity to participate in activities which promote self-es-
teem and the development of positive attitudes. Ap-
proximately 7 000 youth participated in the Youth
Month activities. Highlights of Youth Month were the
7th National Youth Parliament, which saw 85 youth be-
ing trained in advocacy and public speaking; Volun-
teers’ Day; and Youth Explosion, a youth-friendly
church service, in which 2 800 youth participated. The
Prime Minister’s National Youth Awards for Excel-
lence and the Jamaican Youth in Concert were held in
December.
— The National Youth Council (NYC) continued its pro-
cess of restructuring during the year. As part of this pro-
cess, the NCYD in partnership with the Social Devel-
opment Commission (SDC) embarked on a national au-
dit of youth organizations with a view to improve the
NYC’s capability to oversee the operations of youth
organizations.
— Support was also provided for uniformed groups in the
form of subventions of $500 000.00.
Non-Formal Training
Non-formal training was conducted through several
organizations. The National Youth Service (NYS) which has a
mandate to promote behaviour modification, volunteerism and
career development among youth, continued to coordinate
programmes for training and employment. A total of 2 424 youth
were selected to participate in the NYS Corps Programme in FY
2009/10, a decrease of 23.9 per cent compared with FY 2008/09.
This programme entails the training of young people in the 17–24
age group for a period of four weeks after which they are placed in
an organization where they gain work experience for a period of
six months. Participants received training and job placement in
25.9
areas such as education, clerical administration, tourism,
micro entrepreneurship for agriculture, and health.
Participants received post-service benefits including
financial assistance to a maximum of 22.0 per cent of their
individual tertiary tuition.
The NYS continued to provide work experience to
tertiary students and secondary students from 4th to 6th form
under the National Summer Employment Programme
(NSEP). This programme had 4 958 participants in FY
2009/10. There were 2 083 applicants to the Jamaica Values
and Attitudes Programme for Tertiary Students (JAMVAT)
for FY 2009/10; of this figure, 78.8 per cent was female.
The NYS was engaged by the Canadian International
Development Agency (CIDA) to play an active role in two
initiatives aimed at behaviour modification among youth,
namely the Hush the Guns Programme and the Boys Town
Development Project. Under the former, the behaviour
change curriculum is being delivered by 23 young persons
trained as Community Youth Facilitators. Eleven of these
young persons are NYS participants, and training is
delivered to young offenders who have turned from crime
and are in need of life skills, academic and vocational
training.
The Jamaica 4-H Clubs provide training for young
persons (5–25 years) in agriculture, home economics,
leadership and social skills, environmental awareness and
healthy lifestyles. There were 66 041 members (55.9 per
cent female), representing 1 013 clubs in communities,
schools, community colleges and churches. The
Programmes operated by the 4-H clubs include: the National
School Garden Programme; the Bio Diesel Production
Programme; the Management of Waste Water Programme;
Food Technology Programme; and Junior Leaders Peer
Education Programme. Under the various programmes,
training is provided in the care and management of pigs and
poultry; tractor operation and maintenance; organic
farming; home economics; and heifer and goat revolving
schemes. During the period, training was conducted with
one batch of students in tractor operation and maintenance.
Up to 2009, a total of 19 batches or 728 participants received
NCTVET certification.
In the first full calendar year of operation, the Special
Youth Employment and Training Project (SYEAT)
continued to provide opportunities for training and
employment among youth. During the year, 1 700 youth
islandwide registered for participation in the programme; of
this number, 968 received training. This number includes 61
persons who received training from the Jamaica Foundation
for Lifelong Learning (JFLL), and 100 who received
HEART Trust/NTA Level 1 certification in: Customer
Service (44); Food and Beverage (31); Housekeeping (16);
and Landscaping (9). Other youth received training through
workshops staged by HEART Trust/NTA and JFLL, and
on-the-job training. Some 151 trainees were placed in jobs.
The Youth Empowerment Strategy (YES) is a
programme which seeks to empower at-risk young persons
16–30 years old to channel their efforts into productive
endeavours. The programme, which began operation in
October 2008, provides financial assistance to beneficiaries
that can be used to pay tuition fees or for small business
ventures. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security
(MLSS) is the lead coordinating agency for this programme.
Between April and December, the programme assisted 53
 25.10
beneficiaries. The value of the assistance provided was
approximately $2.0 million.
Remedial education and pre-vocational training for youth
continued to be the focus of the Young Men’s Christian
Association (YMCA). Pre-vocational training was delivered in
food preparation, garment construction, information technology
and welding. During the year, 28 students sat the “5 per cent test”,
and gained places in Technical High Schools. Additionally, 11
students were successful in the HEART Trust/NTA Level 1
programme in food preparation. Other achievements included: the
training of 1 800 persons in swimming and 95 in Taekwondo.
Monthly motivational sessions were held where youth received
advice on money management and legal issues. Other activities
included sessions on reproductive health and family life education
which were aimed at promoting safe sexual behaviour among
youth.
The Youth Friendly Centre continued to operate with the
objective of increasing the cadre of trained adolescent counsellors
to identify and respond to the reproductive health needs of
adolescents, and to strengthen the referral system between the
YMCA and clinical care providers.
Work commenced under the Youth Development
Programme, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank
(IDB), aimed at facilitating the transition of unattached youth to
adulthood and the world of work. The NCYD and the NYS, the
two agencies responsible for the technical execution of the
programme activities, commenced the necessary preliminary
planning related to several of these activities including:
— a national youth survey;
— the expansion in the number of Youth Information Cen-
tres (YICs); and
— an impact evaluation of the NYS programmes.
Youth Support Groups
The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC)
continued to facilitate youth employment and entrepreneurship
through Phase III of the Building Youth for National
Development (BY.ND) Programme. The achievements
included:
— Jockey Training: 16 participants received training to
become jockeys
— Music: 57 participants received training in various ar-
eas of music such as sound engineering, song writing
and the playing of instruments
— Business Development: 3 3 y o u n g p e r s o n s r e -
c e iv e d b u s i n es s d e v e l o p me n t t r a i n in g a n d
grants of $50 000.00 each for business start-up
— Internship: 99 unattached young persons in the age
group 17–29 years received internship placements in
various organizations
An additional 119 young persons were exposed to
entrepreneurship training through the JBDC’s two-day Business
Clinic in Ocho Rios in July. This workshop was geared at
educating participants in the various areas of entrepreneurship
such as business planning, record keeping, marketing and
customer service.
During the year, another project, the Young Entrepreneurs
Programme (YEP), was initiated to promote entrepreneurship
among youth. The primary objective of YEP as conceptualized by
the Government was to empower approximately 4 000
school-leavers in 2009 with the necessary training, funding
and business support to enter into entrepreneurship. A
$200.0 million fund was made available by the programme
sponsor, the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ), for the
provision of business loans to qualified candidates with
individual loan amounts of up to $100 000.00 for high
school graduates and $250 000.00 for tertiary graduates, for
loan periods not exceeding 12 months. The lead
implementing agencies were the JBDC, HEART Trust/NTA
and Success Finance Company Ltd. There were three main
modules of the project in 2009:
— Orientation Sessions: 812 young persons partici-
pated in 25 islandwide orientation sessions.
These sessions were geared at sensitizing pro-
spec tive par tic i pants on the ten ets of the
programme.
— Business Development Workshop: 350 youth par-
ticipated in the 17 workshops that were con-
ducted. These workshops provided participants
with general training in specific areas of business
management such as the writing of business
plans.
— Business Hand-holding Sessions: Participants
who were involved in the Business Development
Workshops were given the opportunity to be as-
signed a personal business advisor to assist them
to complete the process of designing a business
plan. Twenty-one business advisors were as-
signed islandwide to facilitate this process.
Ninety-six plans were completed and submitted
to accredited Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs)
under the project.
SENIOR CITIZENS (60 years and Over)
Senior Citizens accounted for approximately 11.0 per
cent (298 100 persons) of the population, with 54.7 per cent
being females (see chapter on Population). Programmes and
initiatives geared towards active ageing, economic
independence and the social inclusion of Senior Citizens
were implemented. The National Council for Senior
Citizens (NCSC), an agency of the MLSS — in
collaboration with a wide range of government and
non-government entities — undertook and gave oversight to
these activities and programmes. The Council also
collaborated with agencies at the regional and international
level to improve the delivery of its services and to facilitate
the dissemination of information. Jamaica, through the
NCSC, also participated in the Third Follow-up Meeting of
the Brasilia Declaration on the Rights of Older Persons in
October. The objective of the meeting was to review the
progress being made regarding the implementation of the
Declaration and to examine the guidelines for a Convention
on the Rights of Older Persons that was prepared at the
second follow-up meeting in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
As at December, there were 712 Senior Citizens Clubs
islandwide with a total membership of 31 911 (10.7 per cent
of the total elderly population). This represents an increase
of over 447 members compared with the previous year.
Approximately 83.1 per cent of the membership was active
while the remainder were indigent/shut-ins. Females
represented the majority of each category of membership:
75.7 per cent of the total membership; 76.6 per cent of the

TABLE 25.4
NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR SENIOR CITIZENS
REFERRALS, 2009
PROGRAMME NO. OF REFERRALS MADE
NIS
PATH
Poor Relief
Public Assistance
Rehabilitation Grant
Bus Pass (ID)
Housing
Foundation for Self-Help (FISH)
JADEP
Food for the Poor
Ministry of Health -- Clinics/Hospitals
NHF
Other
TOTAL
Source: National Council for Senior Citizens
active membership; and 64.5 per cent of shut-ins. As in 2008, St.
Catherine accounted for the largest membership (both active and
shut-ins) with 7 901 members, followed by St. Ann (5 459) and St.
James (4 005). The activities of the Clubs were conducted with the
assistance of 3 895 volunteers assigned to the NCSC.
Initiatives were held islandwide to promote Active Ageing.
These included 571 skills-training sessions, in which 6 063 Senior
Citizens participated. The areas of training included culinary art,
needle craft, garment construction and baking. Computer training
activities were conducted in Clarendon. Seniors’ sports day was
held at the parish level, however, the national event was not held
due to financial constraints. There were 292 income-generating
projects in similar areas. These projects provided funding for
community outreach projects, supplemented existing income and
assisted with medical bills. Some 72 Day Activity Centres
operated islandwide (except St. Mary). During the year, the
activities included: exercise and dance classes; board games;
debates and quizzes; art and craft; and educational and
recreational tours. The Seniors’ Day Activity Centres served
approximately 2 433 attendees. The Home-Help Service — in
which practical nurses employed by the NCSC visit shut-ins —
was available to seniors during the year. Some 809 home visits
were made to 113 beneficiaries.
The National Senior Citizens’ Week was observed in
September under the theme “Seniors Providing Stability in
Challenging Times”. The activities over the month included: an
Ecumenical Church Service, the observance of a National
Grandparents Day, tree planting, and the Seniors’ National
Spelling Bee Finals. A National Award Ceremony was held in
December.
A wide range of educational programmes were held during the
year, in which 4 211 persons participated. These included:
— Seminars: 29 seminars/information sessions were held
on topics including: Disaster Preparedness; Real Es-
tate Management; Services Available at Financial Insti-
tutions; Leadership; Role of the National Housing
Trust; Family Law, Wills and Estate Planning;
25.11
— Conference on Ageing: held at the Jamaica Con-
ference Centre, Kingston. The objective of the
Conference was to raise Public Awareness re-
garding the Madrid Plan of Action on Ageing
(2002) and the Vision 2030 Jamaica-National De-
velopment Plan. The Conference also sought to
1 445 bring into sharper focus the demographic transi-
1 109
tion and population ageing; highlighting the im-
plications for development and for the Govern-
259
ment to institute a policy shift in keeping with
438
these phenomena. Presentations were made by
0 representatives of the Planning Institute of Ja-
983 maica, the Department of Community Health and
0 Psychiatry (UWI) and the private sector;
0
— Seniors’ Spelling Bee Competition: held at parish
2 889
and national levels;
133
85 — Seniors’ Bible Quiz: held for the first time at the
2 015 Day Activity Centre in Kingston;
1 375 — Parish Cultural Days: display of artefacts, Jamai-
can folk form and dishes, which facilitated
10 731 inter-generational exchanges;
— Exhibitions: 29 exhibitions showcasing the work
of seniors. This represents twice the number of
exhibitions held in 2008; and
— In for ma tion Tech nol ogy Train ing: se niors
islandwide were trained in Basic Computer
Skills.
Health education and interventions included: 38 health
seminars; 10 fairs; 17 clinics; and 19 workshops. Areas of
concentration included: Healthy Lifestyle; Understanding
the Ageing Process; Dementia; Chronic Illnesses; Food
Safety; Dental Care; Environmental Health; Nutrition;
Cancer Causes and Treatment; and H1N1 Virus. Through
these initiatives, Senior Citizens were also assisted with
enrolment for the Jamaica Drugs for the Elderly Programme
(JADEP) and the National Health Fund (NHF); caregivers
of Senior Citizens were also trained.
Senior Citizens continued to receive feeding assistance
through the Government-sponsored “Meals on Wheels”
service in the Corporate Area (Kingston and St. Andrew)
and the Rural Feeding Programme (islandwide). Under the
“Meals on Wheels” programme cooked meals or packaged
meals were transported to 21 feeding centres and to
registered shut-ins five days per week. Some 485 persons
benefited under this initiative. The Rural Feeding
Programme benefited 3 393 persons through 60 feeding
centres. The rural programmes were supported by
non-governmental organizations, community initiatives and
service clubs.
The NCSC made 10 731 referrals (Table 25.4) to
programmes and agencies, representing an increase of 724
referrals compared with the previous year. The major
increases were seen in the number of referrals made to PATH
(1 109), NIS (1 445), JADEP (2 889) and JUTC/Bus Passes
(983). While there was a decline in the number of referrals
made to the NHF, it continued to represent the second largest
number of referrals (2 015) made by the NCSC (Table 25.4).
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
The GOJ continued to implement programmes and
initiatives aimed at the development and social integration
 25.12
of persons with disabilities in an effort to achieve full participation
and the equalization of opportunities for persons with disabilities.
These initiatives were coordinated by the Jamaica Council for
Persons with Disabilities (JCPD), a department of the MLSS. The
platform for these initiatives remained the National Policy for
Persons with Disabilities, the United Nation Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Vision 2030
Jamaica-National Development Plan. The JCPD worked closely
with various NGOs, the private sector as well as other government
organizations to carry out its mandate.
As in previous years, public education was one of the major
undertakings of the JCPD. The highlight of the public education
thrust was the celebration of Disability Awareness Week which
was observed between November 29 and December 5 under the
theme “Making the Millennium Development Goals Inclusive:
Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and their
Communities around the World.” Events were held islandwide
including panel discussions in Montego Bay and Lucea, a Health
and Information Fair in Ocho Rios and information dissemination
and display at the May Pen Parish Library. The JCPD in
collaboration with the National Advisory Board on Disability also
hosted a Public Education Forum on Disability in June. The forum
was geared towards “Greater Collaboration for Effective Service
Delivery for Persons with Disabilities.” The forum was attended
by 59 females and 25 males from a wide cross section of the
population as well as personnel involved in disability advocacy
and service delivery.
Public education initiatives were also undertaken under the
Sexual and Reproductive Health Project (GOJ/EC/UNFPA). A
thirty-minute documentary was produced with its objectives being
to: build awareness on the rights of persons with disabilities;
reduce barriers that impede families; reduce stigma and
discrimination against persons with disabilities; and expand
awareness of the benefits of registering with the JCPD. A two-day
workshop was held in September to sensitize pharmacists from the
four Regional Health Authorities. Approximately 110 females
and 114 males received condoms upon request at the Reproductive
Health Window (see chapter on Population).
The JCPD assisted with the placement of three females and
five males in jobs within private sector organizations. An
allocation of $12.8 million was earmarked in the JCPD budget,
Economic Empowerment and Assistive Aids Grants; of this
amount approximately $8.0 million was disbursed for economic
empowerment. This benefited some 243 persons, the majority
(131) of whom were male. The beneficiaries were engaged in
small business ventures including animal rearing, vending,
furniture manufacturing, garment construction and phone card
sales. Seventy-three persons (42 females) received grants for
medical/assistive aids. Seventy-three per cent of the grants were
for computers, hearing aids and prosthetic legs. Under its
Rehabilitation Grant Programme, the JCPD also provided grants
to 119 females and 94 males towards small business ventures,
school expenses, assistive aids and medical expenses.
Two male students from the University of West Indies (UWI)
were awarded the Margaret Moody Scholarship and a female
student of the same institution received a grant of $50 000.00. The
Margaret Moody Committee extends to students and prospective
students attending tertiary institutions the opportunity to access
funds for tuition fees and other expenses.
Skills training for persons with disabilities continued to be
offered through the Abilities Foundation. During the year 79
beneficiaries were enrolled in General Administration, Furniture
Making, Housekeeping, Data Operation, Special Education and
Garment Construction. This represents a decline in enrolment by
52.1 per cent compared with the previous year. The majority
of the beneficiaries (92.4 per cent) were from Kingston, St.
Andrew and St. Catherine; females (59.5 per cent) and
persons 16–25 years (78.5 per cent). Seventeen males and 22
females graduated from the institution in 2009.
Other initiatives for persons with disabilities included:
— efforts towards the issuance of drivers’ licences to
the Deaf and hearing impaired. In preparation for
these drivers, 25 persons from the Jamaica Con-
stabulary Force and the Island Traffic Authority
were trained in basic sign language between
March 4 and April 3;
— the in tro duc tion of a Life Cop ing Skills
Programme for young persons with disabilities
by the Young Men’s Christian Association
(YMCA). The aim of the programme is to encour-
age independence and self-reliance of partici-
pants and to increase their ability to be active
within their homes and families as well as be pro-
ductive members of their communities and the
society.
GENDER ISSUES
The adoption of measures to strengthen gender-based
planning and policy formulation, and a focus on reducing
discriminatory practices that limit gender equality, as well as
enhancing social and economic opportunities for both males
and females, remained the commitment of Government over
the year. Social development in the area of gender
mainstreaming was addressed through work on legislation,
research studies, and collaboration on various projects and
programmes.
Gender equality and mainstreaming within
Government is the mandate of the Bureau of Women’s
Affairs (BWA). Over the year, the Bureau continued to
promote various measures and interventions to advance the
consideration of a gender perspective in policy and
programme development. The focus of the BWA remained
policy development, research, behavioural change,
empowerment of rural women, among other issues. Two
draft policy documents were completed and submitted to
Cabinet: Sexual Harassment Policy and the National Policy
for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment. Through
the advocacy efforts of the BWA and other stakeholders, the
Sexual Offences Bill was passed in Parliament.
The BWA, in promoting the integration of gender into
plans and policies, participated both locally and overseas, in
several meetings, seminars, workshops and other fora.
Several MDAs established gender focal points to give
oversight to the integration of gender in their respective
work areas. The BWA also prepared submissions regarding
the integration of gender in the HIV/AIDS Workplace
Policy, and in the selection of Board Members for public
bodies. The agency participated in a Commonwealth
Secretariat seminar on Trade and Export Promotion held in
India, and in trade and investment seminars held locally.
In the area of prevention of violence against women, the
BWA continued to actively intervene through the use of
public education sessions islandwide. Issues covered
included domestic violence, sexual abuse, masculinity and
sexual and reproductive health. The BWA collaborated with
other agencies in combating trafficking of persons. A

project implemented in 2008 by the BWA to reduce gender-based
violence (Reducing Gender-Based Violence in Jamaica:
Increasing Awareness, Enhancing Access to Protection,
Strengthening Responses, 2008–2009), this year provided
training for 175 human resource managers and practitioners, and
29 judges/resident magistrates in the areas of pertinent policies
and legislation, international conventions and treaties. This
project was supported by the United Nations Trust Fund and the
United Nations Development Fund for Women. Another project,
“Strengthening State Accountability and Community Action for
Ending Gender-based Violence in the Caribbean” (2009–2010),
was also executed by BWA over the year. It is aimed at reducing
gender-based violence through strengthened and responsive state
and civil society actions, and is primarily concerned with building
political will to address the significant gaps in policy frameworks
for sexual and gender-based violence, particularly in the justice
and security sectors. This project is being funded by United
Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM). The four
major components of the project are the development of
multi-sectoral strategic plans; building competence within the
justice and security sectors; building state accountability; and
promoting a gender-sensitive communications strategy.
In April, the Male Desk was instituted at the BWA to provide
targeted gender sensitization sessions for males between 9 and 35
years of age. The Desk also aims to build awareness, and create a
better understanding of gender relations between women and
men. Referral services for public and private sector agencies that
provide services to men and boys will also be offered. The BWA
also continued its involvement in empowering women in rural
areas through income-earning activities. The activities mainly
included agriculture, craft and eco-tourism. The agency also
supported cultural activities and representation. Training and
access to credit remained priorities of BWA interventions. Over
the year, the Bureau recorded 30 public education fora, and seven
Health and Information Fairs, across ten parishes. Some 4 080
individuals (2 843 females) mostly from rural communities
participated. Approximately 22 members of the Jamaica
Household Workers Association were enrolled in a Home
Management course for HEART Trust/NTA certification, while
19 female farmers from four parishes received loans from the
Community Empowerment Network, an NGO partnering with the
Canadian International Development Agency. The BWA also
focused during the year on institutional strengthening and staff
development.
The BWA observed International Women’s Day on March 8,
under the theme “Honouring the Past, Celebrating Women:
Embracing Gender Equality”. On November 25, the International
Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was
observed under the theme “Commit, Act, Demand: Women and
Men Unite to End Violence Against Women”. This was followed
by observance of the 16 Days of Activism against gender violence,
November 25 to December 10.
The BWA was involved in representing gender issues both
locally and internationally. The agency coordinated the
preparation of the Combined Sixth and Seventh Periodic Report
on the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of
Discrimination Against Women, in collaboration with other
stakeholders. Other international reports included the UN
General Assembly Resolution 62/136 regarding strategies
towards the improvement in the situation of rural women. The
Report indicated that women in rural areas are involved in the
development of economic and agricultural policies, but to a
limited extent since many activities are still clustered in urban
areas. However, there are a number of influential women in
Government ministries, Parish Councils, consumer advocate
25.13
groups, farmers’ organizations and in representational
politics who are involved in the development of policies.
Rural women are a part of the decision-making process
through participation and representation at the local level.
The BWA prepared a report for the UN General Assembly
Resolution 62/206 which outlined measures taken to address
the status of women in development. Jamaica noted that a
gender equality framework has also been established for all
government policies, programmes, and plans, in keeping
with the international legal agreements concerning human
rights obligations, commitments and principles. The BWA
also spearheaded the preparation of the Mid Term Review
(MTR) of the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Gender
Equality. A report was also submitted to the Inter-American
Commission on Human Rights, indicating, inter alia, the
need for greater involvement by women in higher levels of
leadership and decision-making. Other input through
technical papers, questionnaires and participation, was
provided at the regional and international levels.
Over the year, the BWA Intervention Management Unit
responded to 185 clients (161 females), mostly in the areas
of domestic violence, shelter needs, training and
certification, property ownership and labour market issues,
and sexual offences. In March, the BWA launched the
celebration of its 35th Anniversary, which was
commemorated with a series of activities during the year and
an Awards Banquet in November.
Support to adolescent and young women in terms of
their sexual and reproductive lives continued to be offered
through the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation. The
various programmes under the agency’s purview focused on
continuing education, counselling, skills training and
day-care facilities for young children. Males were also
targeted for counselling. Under the Teen Pregnancy
programme, 1 567 adolescent mothers were served, 934 of
whom were new students. Of these new students, data
indicate that 153 had been attending primary/junior high
schools, while 677 (72.5 per cent) had attended high schools,
and 91 had attended technical high schools. By year-end,
738 students had been returned to the formal school system.
Forty-four individuals benefited from skills training in
Cosmetology, House Craft and Dressmaking, offered at
Mandeville, Junction and Morant Bay centres. Some 370
fathers of the babies of teen mothers were counselled over
the period. Under the Parenting programme, 113 babies
were registered in the nursery facilities islandwide,
facilitating the participation of their mothers in classes at the
centres. Another 184 babies were cared for in the Chubby
Cheeks nursery service while their mothers were at work.
Fifty-seven children were enrolled in the pre-school facility
operated by the Montego Bay Centre.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in
collaboration with the University of the West Indies,
conducted a baseline study on gender-based violence in
Jamaica. This was done in an effort to address the issue by
providing information on the current situation. The study
documented the nature of the problem, policy and legislative
framework, as well as delivery and capacity gaps in pertinent
organizations. It was supported by the Inter-Agency Task
Force on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and
examined the attitude of young males towards gender-based
violence and sexual and reproductive health. The main
stakeholders involved in programmes targeting male youths,
the resources dedicated to working with male youths, and
 25.14
the capacity gaps that existed in relevant institutions were also
examined.
In terms of public education, UNFPA also collaborated with
the BWA and the MOE to educate students on the issues of gender,
gender-based violence and women’s empowerment. This
programme has been ongoing for over two years and has taken
place in over 50 schools across the island. In 2009, the Bureau
conducted workshops in five schools, reaching 348 students,
guidance counsellors and teachers. Sessions focused on the
implications of gender-based violence, violence against women
and girls, and sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Health and wellness, sustainable livelihoods, advocacy and
research, and the building of community capacity in the
empowerment of women remained the focus of the Women’s
Resource and Outreach Centre Ltd. (WROC). Under the Health
and Wellness Programme, medical clinics were held twice weekly,
with 1 021 persons (753 females) accessing services at subsidized
fees. For the year, 306 persons (215 females) accessed
counselling services from the Centre. The WROC also hosted
weekly social interaction sessions for senior citizens, averaging
85 clients (65 women) each week. Resource persons included
medical personnel, and officers from the National Council for
Senior Citizens and the Diabetes Association, among other
partners. The 15-month project initiated in 2008 to target farmers
and their families in some ex-banana producing communities
came to an end in December. The project was intended to assist
these persons to access alternative employment opportunities as a
means of securing sustainable livelihoods. This was supported by
the European Union and Christian Aid. Some $46.0 million was
spent, benefiting 300 persons directly, 65 per cent of whom were
male. Project partners included the Social Development
Commission, Jamaica Agricultural Society, the Forestry
Department, among others. Activities included construction of
economic infrastructure such as dams and a slaughter house, as
well as training, labour support and organizational development.
In terms of community capacity building, WROC this year
focused on the Lyndhurst/Greenwich areas of Kingston.
Activities involved developing social and economic opportunities
for men, women and children; building the influence of women in
their communities; strengthening community security through
awareness and dialogue; and expanding the participation and
leadership of women. Strategies included the use of drama,
dialogue, homework centres and literacy and numeracy
programmes. Skills training and livelihood ventures remained a
priority, with WROC coordinating much of its efforts through the
Women Working for Progress organization. Advocacy and
research activities of WROC centred on several activities, one of
which was the completion of a study supported by the United
Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) on Gender
Implications of Borders and Boundaries in the
Lyndhurst/Greenwich Park Community. A public education
session was held to share the findings of the research. Under a
UNICEF-funded programme, WROC assisted 24 women in
training for participation on Boards and Committees. Participants
represented the public and private sectors, and civil society, and
were trained in gender and good governance, transformational
leadership, indices and indicators of good governance, and
financial statements. Another component of the programme
which envisages the training of women to sit on school Boards
was also initiated through the development of a training
curriculum and initial contact with prospective trainees.
In February, the University of the West Indies (UWI)
administration formally re-designated the Centre for Gender and
Development Studies into an Institute of the university. The Mona
Unit of the Institute for Gender and Development Studies
(IGDS) continued its programme of teaching, research and
outreach, with the first bachelor’s degree programme in
Gender and Development Studies completing its first year.
The degree programme includes training in gender
mainstreaming in various sectors (e.g. education, health,
environment, human resources and finance) and the conduct
of gender-sensitive, evidence-based research to support
policy development, analysis and planning. Undergraduate
courses were updated to enhance their relevance to the
Caribbean, and teaching services were also offered to
graduate and post-graduate students. Regional students
benefited from the supervision of research papers and
projects. Advances were made on several research projects
funded by international partners, some of which were
completed during the year. These included the Jamaican
case study on gender and women’s rights in the area of trade
liberalization, commissioned by the Commonwealth
Secretariat and One World Action, and funded by the
Department For International Development (DFID).
Another research study was done on gender, climate change
and disaster risk management in the Caribbean, which was
supported by the UNDP. The results of the study on Gender
and Governance were published by the IGDS. A small pilot
study focusing on the perpetrators and victims of
gender-based violence was carried out with support from the
Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Friedrich Ebert
Stiftung Foundation. Public education and outreach was
anchored mainly through the Unit’s ‘Conversations with
Gender’ public education series. In collaboration with other
stakeholders, special events were commemorated through
seminars, public discussions and various lectures.
Through its teaching programme, outreach and project
activities, the Regional Coordinating Unit (RCU) of the
IGDS also continued to provide local, regional and
international support to gender and development. Major
research work conducted over the year included a study to
assess gender differentials at the secondary and tertiary
levels in the English-speaking Caribbean; and a Country
Assessment of Violence Against Women in Jamaica.
Recommendations arising from the assessment included the
need for a coordinated approach, provision of adequate
resources at the institutional level, training and advocacy,
and the establishment of a databank. The Institute
collaborated with several UN agencies in carrying out its
work. Technical services were provided through the
Institute to organizations including the Commonwealth
Secretariat, the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute for Social and
Economic Studies, and others.
SOCIAL PROTECTION
Social protection efforts again centred on reducing
social risks, particularly in light of the global economic
crisis, as well as reducing poverty, and facilitating expanded
social security opportunities. Government remained
committed to the social protection of citizens, through
strengthened social assistance programmes and social
security initiatives. Protection of vulnerable groups, and
provisions to improve their quality of life remained priorities
for the state and its partners. Significant support to
government programmes was received from international
d e v e lo p me n t p ar t n er s , w h il e n o n -g o v e r n me n t al
organizations and the private sector continued to play key
roles in social development. Despite the challenges brought
about by the global economic crisis, resources to social

protection were maintained, and advances were made in
leveraging additional resources for enhancing the delivery of
social services. Government responded to the potential threat
created by the economic crisis by expanding social assistance
coverage to the most vulnerable, which continued into the current
review period. Increased need for social assistance and poverty
reduction was addressed through collaboration with various
agencies.
The Social Safety Net Reform Programme (SSN) initiated
in 2000 continued to guide the agenda for development of social
assistance policies and programmes. Through the oversight of the
Social Safety Net Reform Programme Implementation Committee
(SSNPIC) efforts at addressing programme gaps, improving
service delivery, and focusing on human capital as the means to
stemming the inter-generational transmission of poverty were
priorities.
Advances were made in the development and implementation
of two projects to be co-financed by the Inter-American
Development Bank (IDB). The Support to the Food Price Crisis
project, a US$15.0 million loan, was approved and implemented,
and provides support to the expansion of PATH, the institutional
strengthening of the MLSS, and nutrition education campaigns.
The thrust is to maintain health and nutrition gains, particularly for
young children and other vulnerable persons. The project is being
implemented by the MLSS, in collaboration with the MOH. Under
this project, support to the payment of PATH grants continued.
The target for the expansion of numbers on PATH was assisted by
the recruitment of appropriate human resources, including social
workers and data entry clerks in the parishes. The findings of a
study to explore uptake of the PATH by pregnant and lactating
women influenced the design of a strategy to target this
beneficiary category. The budget, procurement and
implementation plans for the nutrition campaign were finalized in
December by the MOH. The Human Capital Protection project is
being negotiated to further support social policy interventions for
vulnerable groups, and to provide technical support to the social
policy framework, through studies and diagnostic work on
selected programme areas such as health care and school feeding.
The Steps-to-Work pilot project was officially launched by
the MLSS in November. Developed under the SSN programme,
the project harnesses wide inter-sectoral input. The pilot has
proceeded in six parishes since activities were initiated in 2008,
namely: Kingston, St. Andrew, Clarendon, Manchester, Trelawny
and St. James. With its focus on preparing working-age members
of poor households for sustained employment, the programme
involves remedial learning, business development, skill
certification and other services, and has been targeted firstly at
households on PATH. The programmes are offered in
collaboration with various government ministries and agencies.
Major partners to date are the HEART Trust/NTA, the Jamaica
Business Development Corporation and the Jamaica Foundation
for Lifelong Learning (JFLL). Supporting agencies have so far
included the Rural Agriculture Development Agency (RADA)
and departments within the MLSS (e.g. Electronic Labour
Exchange).
Up to the end of December, just over 3 000 persons had been
screened for the pilot, and 1 586 client interventions had been
initiated in various aspects of the programme. This number
consisted of 1 103 females and 483 males. Some 45 clients had by
October received funding to proceed with chicken rearing and
vending projects. The first business development programme
benefited 18 clients in Clarendon in December. Some 41 clients
from Clarendon and St. James completed a ten-week customized
literacy programme targeting displaced banana sector workers
25.15
and their families. The project Unit also developed other
customized programme ideas over the year, geared to
targeting the specific needs of Steps-to-Work clientele.
Seventy clients participated in the Grade Nine Refresher
Training programme, and in December, 39 new clients were
referred for training at HEART. Training for farmers in
livestock rearing benefited 133 persons (73 females).
Entrepreneurship grants through the Youth Empowerment
Strategy Programme and the Rehabilitation Grant
Programme benefited 140 clients, 118 of whom were
female. A four-day employability skills training workshop
was also developed under the project, in collaboration with
HEART Trust/NTA. This Job Savvy programme is pitched
at persons with secondary school qualifications, and five
such workshops were held, in Kingston and St. Andrew,
Clarendon, Trelawny, Manchester and St. James.
Over the year, advances were made in recruiting human
resources, and equipping offices for the scale-up and
sustainability of the programme. Further collaboration with
state agencies and NGOs involved in training and
development, as well as micro finance, were explored. A
youth summer camp involving 145 youth (77 females) in
Trelawny took place in August. The camp combined a
remedial programme with an introduction to four vocational
skills: Poultry Rearing, Plumbing, Food Preparation and
Woodwork. Sports and behaviour modification components
were also included. Steps were also taken over the year to
enhance the information technology and other capacities of
the programme coordinating Unit. An Operations Manual
was completed during the year. Efforts were made within
the MLSS to build synergies between the Steps-to-Work
programme and other employment creation programmes
within the Ministry, such as the Special Youth Employment
and Apprenticeship Training programme and the Youth
Empowerment Strategy programme.
The first year of implementation of the five-year Social
Protection Project saw emphasis on improving the
processes of delivery of PATH benefits, initiation of studies
and other knowledge-gathering exercises, and extensive
training initiatives in the area of pension administration. The
project is implemented through the Ministry of Labour and
Social Security, the Ministry of Finance and the Public
Service, and the Planning Institute of Jamaica. The project
aims to build the capacity of the Government to reduce the
burden of poverty on the most vulnerable groups, and to
enhance social security through administrative efficiencies
within the public pension systems. Co-funded by the World
Bank through a loan of US$40.0 million, the expected
overall cost of the project is US$216.0 million by end of
project. During the review period, the project supported the
payment of PATH benefits, research studies, the effecting of
the Steps-to-Work pilot, specific training events, and the
development of terms of reference for impact and process
evaluations, and the review of the proxy means test for
eligibility for social assistance, among other activities.
There was an expansion in the number of beneficiaries
registered on the PATH. This cash transfer programme is
one of the largest social assistance programmes of the
Government, with a register of 340 284 persons at the end of
the year. This represented some 95 per cent of the
programme target of 360 000 persons. Box 1 gives the data
on the anticipated coverage of beneficiaries by programme
category. Of those registered, 298 289 were paid in the
December payment period, as indicated in Table 25.5. This
represents an increase of 7.8 per cent over the similar period
 25.16

BOX 1 Public Assistance is offered through three component

ALLOCATION OF PATH CATEGORIES programmes, and is administered through the MLSS. Data
are depicted in Table 25.6. Under the Rehabilitation Grant
Anticipated Coverage programme, 1 275 persons were assisted to the tune of $15.8
Programme Category
260 000
million. The majority of clients (761) were female. As is
Children
typical, the majority of clients were from Kingston and St.
Pregnant and Lactating Women 3 000
Andrew (53.2 per cent), followed by St. Catherine (19.4 per
Elderly 60 000 cent) and Clarendon (17.4 per cent). With respect to the
Disability 18 000 Compassionate Grant, 2 293 persons (1 371 females) were
Other Indigent and Poor Relief 19 000 given disbursements totalling $38.2 million. Over 64 per
cent of clients were from Kingston and St. Andrew.
Total 360 000 Emergency Grants were provided to 619 clients (440
Source: Ministry of Labour and females) with a total disbursement of $9.98 million. Again
Social Security KSA and St. Catherine had the largest numbers of clients
(Table 25.6).
of the previous year. The total value of the benefit payment in Poor Relief services for the care and protection,
December was $432.5 million. Inclusive of the December rehabilitation and relief of registered poor persons continued
payment, some $2.45 billion was spent on disbursing monthly to be administered through the Board of Supervision (BOS).
cash benefits for the year, in comparison with $1.9 billion in 2008. Parish Councils, and the Kingston and St. Andrew
Differentiated payments to students on PATH, which began in Corporation facilitated the provision of these services
December 2008, continued to be paid throughout the year, with the throughout the year to 14 729 Registered Poor clients and
programme objective being to support school retention for boys 103 Temporary clients. Of the Registered Poor, 12 981 were
and girls. There was some evidence of improved compliance with Outdoor clients and 1 811 were Indoor clients. In the case of
attendance requirements, for both boys and girls over the period; the Outdoor Poor, the cash transfer to eligible clients was
however this remains a challenge particularly at the secondary accommodated through the PATH, while the Local
level. In addition, the tertiary grant programme disbursed $8.1 Authorities maintained responsibility for school-related,
million to 539 post-secondary students. medical, housing and burial expenses. For the Outdoor
In October, the MLSS instituted a new beneficiary programme, some $35.9 million was spent on client
management information system for PATH, which was designed services. Some 1 272 persons were enrolled throughout the
to improve the administrative efficiency throughout the year, while 1 225 clients ceased receiving benefits due to
programme. The fieldwork for a recertification exercise directed death or other discontinuance. Kingston and St. Andrew, St.
at beneficiary families who had been on the programme for four James and St. Catherine continued to be the largest in terms
years or more, was largely completed by year-end. A content of numbers of clients. Expenditure on the Temporary Poor
management system for the programme was also instituted by the totalled approximately $208 000.00.
MLSS. There were 513 children in their own names (262 males),
and 3 714 children as dependants (1 892 males) on the poor

TABLE 25.5
PATH BENEFICIARIES BY PARISH AND CATEGORY
PAID DECEMBER 2009

PARISH Health Education Elderly Disability Pregnant/ Adult Poor Poor TOTAL
(0-under 6 yrs) ( 6-17 yrs) Lactating Relief/PAD

Kingston 1 608 4 561 1 021 221 19 14 785 8 229

St. Andrew 4 995 15 788 3 839 657 62 113 22 18 27 672
St. Thomas 2 724 9 203 2 321 359 79 106 530 15 322
Portland 2 601 7 827 2 330 391 120 89 1 095 14 453
St. Mary 3 477 11 747 3 570 528 59 145 689 20 215
St. Ann 3 270 13 858 3 917 607 58 103 1 290 23 103
Trelawny 2 079 6 950 1 695 225 36 67 564 11 616
St. James 2 672 8 904 2 174 408 53 60 1 561 15 832
Hanover 1 823 6 715 2 282 438 39 78 1 235 12 610
Westmoreland 3 998 12 792 3 820 599 142 136 609 22 096
St. Elizabeth 4 832 14 577 5 396 791 143 180 864 26 783
Manchester 4 912 14 800 4 542 745 84 116 908 26 107
Clarendon 6 996 21 856 6 052 866 147 205 1 635 37 757
St. Catherine 5 726 21 913 5 816 1 087 52 263 1 637 36 494

TOTAL 51 713 171 491 48 775 7 922 1 093 1 675 15 620 298 289

Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

 25.17

TABLE 25.6
BENEFICIARIES OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE BY PROGRAMME AND PARISH, 2009

REHABILITATION GRANT COMPASSIONATE GRANT EMERGENCY GRANT

PARISH Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total TOTAL

Kingston & St. Andrew 263 415 678 649 837 1 486 85 208 293 2 457
St. Thomas 12 19 31 21 30 51 6 2 8 90
Portland 6 20 26 8 33 14 8 15 23 90
St. Mary 2 7 9 14 30 44 4 6 10 63
St. Ann 4 6 10 13 34 47 - 1 1 58
Trelawny - 1 1 5 6 11 13 16 29 41
St. James - - - 7 37 44 7 12 19 63
Hanover - - - 17 4 21 1 6 7 28
Westmoreland 1 5 6 12 8 20 6 8 14 40
St. Elizabeth - 5 5 6 13 19 1 - 1 25
Manchester 19 20 39 5 15 20 9 3 12 71
Clarendon 113 109 222 41 114 155 9 35 44 421
St. Catherine 94 154 248 124 210 334 30 128 158 740

TOTAL 514 761 1 275 922 1 371 2 293 179 440 619 4 187

- no grant paid out

Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security

relief rolls as at end of December. Kingston and St. Andrew, parishes, 112 were on the Poor Relief rolls (84 males); 136
Portland and Hanover had the largest numbers in the latter received shelter care (101 males); 234 did not participate in
category, while Kingston and St. Andrew and St. James had the street care (200 males); and 241 received other care (209
most children in their own right. In respect of the institutionalized males).
poor (Indoor Poor) who reside in parish infirmaries and the
Golden Age Home, 1 811 persons were served. Some 96.7 per cent Under the School Feeding Programme, 397 000
of clients being served at the end of the year were 60 years and students were facilitated islandwide (see chapter on
over. There were 314 admissions over the period, with 260 deaths Education). Government maintained its commitment to the
and 45 discharges. Expenditure of the programme islandwide was nutrition support of child beneficiaries of PATH by
approximately $113.4 million. Gardening projects in several providing some $938.0 million for 119 000 students.
parishes supported the diets of residential clients, and received
assistance from RADA and other government agencies, as well as TABLE 25.7
NGOs. Repairs were effected to several parish plants. Through NATIONAL INSURANCE PENSIONS AND EM-
the National Council for Senior Citizens, efforts were made to PLOYMENT INJURY BENEFITS
register elderly clients for the National Health Fund benefits. NUMBER OF BENEFICIARIES, 2008 AND 2009
Other achievements included increased voluntary contributions to
the infirmaries, completion of Disaster Plans, equipping of all 2008 2009
dormitories with smoke detectors, and the expansion of gardening
and poultry projects in several parishes. There was continued TYPE OF BENEFIT NO. OF NO. OF RECIPIENTS
support from non-government agencies and the private sector, as RECIPI-
ENTS
well as Ministries and state agencies. The delivery of Poor Relief
services continued to be hampered by constraints in human and 60 494 68 228
Old Age
funding resources, inadequate physical infrastructure and 4 632 5 089
equipment, and inadequate provision of medical services. Invalidity
Widows/Widowers 16 663 17 529
The Indigent Housing programme received support from the Orphans/Special Child 58 67
NGO sector during the year. Several clients also received Special Anniversary 83 116
assistance with their housing needs through the Constituency Employment Injury/Disablement 1 531 2 516
Development Fund. Over 30 new units were provided in several 57 67
Sugar Workers
parishes through Food for the Poor, and 45 units were repaired.
Through the joint efforts of the Poor Relief departments in various 83 518 93 612
TOTAL
parishes, and the contribution of NGOs, some 66 new units were
provided to clients, and 435 units were assisted with repairs. The
BOS is also responsible for the care of street people, and the data Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security
showed that of a population of 652 (496 males) across the
 25.18
TABLE 25.8
NATIONAL INSURANCE FUND INCOME AND EX-
PENDITURE 2008 AND 2009
J$MILLION
2008
INCOME
Contribution 7 458.9
5 200.9
Investment
TOTAL 12 659.8 15 770.6
EXPENDITURE
NIS Benefits 8 162.3
Administrative Expenses 671.1
TOTAL 8 833.4
NET INCOME 3 826.4
Source: Ministry of Labour and Social Security
Social Insurance
The Government contributory social insurance scheme
continued to provide benefits to contributors. Over the year, some
93 612 persons received payments under the National Insurance
Scheme. This reflected a 12.1 per cent increase over the previous
year’s figures. The largest category of beneficiaries was the Old
Age and Incapacity, which increased by 12.8 per cent (Table 25.7).
At the end of December, the Net Assets of the National
Insurance Fund (NIF) stood at $58.5 billion (unaudited figures),
compared with $50.5 billion the previous year. This reflected an
increase by some 15.8 per cent. The increase was influenced by
increases in investments in stock and money markets. Total
Investment Income for the year was recorded at $9.9 billion, a
significant increase over the previous year by 97.4 per cent. The
largest contributor to this was an increase of over 400.0 per cent in
the Gain on Investments, followed by a 30.9 per cent increase in
Interest Income. Investment instruments showing the largest
percentage gains were Government of Jamaica Bonds and
Debentures, with increases of approximately 90.0 per cent.
Contributions to the Fund declined however by 8.9 per cent to
$6.78 billion, while Pension benefits payments increased by 10.1
per cent to $8.98 billion. The Net Income of the Fund increased by
some 59.1 per cent to $6 091.2 million (Table 25.8).
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Poverty reduction and social development measures
continued to be implemented at the community level. The Social
Development Commission (SDC) undertook a number of
initiatives during the year. In the area of governance, the SDC
continued to support the establishment, assessment, and
strengthening of governance structures; forming 201 community
7 Not yet passed in Parliament
based organizations (CBOs) and reactivating 33. The
number of active governance structures islandwide were: 4
421 CBOs; 451 community development committees
(CDCs); 49 development area committees (DACs); and 11
parish development committees (PDCs).
2009
The SDC also facilitated community consultations on a
number of issues which include:
— Ministry of National Security Crime Forum;
6 794.7
9 975.9 — National Environment and Planning Agency De-
velopment Orders Consultation;
— Family and Reproductive Health Workshops;
— Planning Institute of Jamaica Parenting Semi-
nars;
8 986.3 — Ministry of Health/World Bank Adolescent Sum-
693.1 mer Camp;
9 679.4 — Min is tr y of Jus tice Re stor ative Jus tice
Programme; and
6 091.2 — CDC sensitization in Kingston and St. Andrew
(KSA) to the provisions of the revised Local
Government Act7.
As at December, the Research Division of the SDC
completed 371 community profiles. Hazard maps were
developed for the communities of New Market, Pisgah,
Ginger Hill and Giddy Hall in St. Elizabeth and Springfield
in Westmoreland. Under the Risk and Vulnerability
Assessment Methodology Development Project (RiVAMP),
disaster prone areas and existing shelters for the
communities of Little Bay and Whitehall were mapped.
Additionally, Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
training and equipment was provided in partnership with the
various Parish Councils, Peace Corp Volunteers, and UNDP
to enhance the community mapping process.
As it relates to community development planning and
programmes (CDPP), 20 Community Priority Plans were
completed and shared with Members of Parliament, other
elected representatives and private sector interests. They
were also used to influence decisions regarding the
expenditure of Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
The SDC facilitated the implementation of over 286 CDF
projects which include:
— provision of water tanks for the Shanty commu-
nity in St. Ann to improve water supply;
— improvement of the Cavalier’s Basic School in
West Rural St. Andrew; and
— improvement of the changing room facilities at
the Mannings Hill Sports Field and provision of a
facility for community meetings for the Parks
Road community.
The SDC worked with communities and other partners
to develop and implement a range of targeted projects and
programmes in strategic areas such as youth empowerment,
information and communication technology, skills and
vocational training, environmental management and
protection, child care and protection, health awareness and

disease prevention, social intervention, local government reform,
sports, agricultural development, and community safety and
security. Some of the initiatives that were facilitated include:
— 25 communities trained in disaster management;
— adult literacy programme;
— social service fairs in 10 parishes covering 23 commu-
nities where 1 214 registrations by the Registrar Gen-
eral Department, 372 Taxpayer Registration Number
(TRN) registrations and over 500 HIV/STI tests were
completed;
Work in the area of CDPP also included participation in a
number of programmes such as:
— Better Environments for Social Transformation (BEST)
Community Competition and Programme – aimed at
encouraging community self help activities. It seeks to
establish partnerships between communities and indi-
viduals with technical, professional, spiritual, educa-
tional and financial capabilities.
— Community Safety and Security – The SDC seeks to in-
crease citizens’ involvement in managing their own
safety and security in collaboration with the Security
Forces and other supporting Ministries, Departments
and Agencies (MDAs). A crime plan was developed for
the parish of St. Mary and a crime and violence forum
held in Clarendon. Discussions have also been facili-
tated with stakeholders in the communities of Roaring
River and Steer Town in St. Ann, Hayes in Clarendon
and Central Village in St. Catherine regarding issues re-
lating to crime and violence. The process of enhanced
community safety and security has led to the emergence
of governance structures. In St. Mary two neighbour-
hood watches were reactivated in Rose Street and Arca-
dia while in St. James, the SDC partnered with the Citi-
zens’ Security and Justice Programme and Peace Man-
agement Initiative to assess the underlying causes and
impact of the upsurge of crime and violence in the
Canterbury and North Gully Communities.
— United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP)
Jamaica Violence Prevention, Peace and Sustainable
Development Programme (JVPP&SDP) – SDC contin-
ues to actively contribute to the JVPP&SDP by lending
expertise, advice and facilitating various meetings with
partners and members of two of the three target com-
munities (Jones Town, Trench Town and Granville).
During this period, the SDC participated in, and/or fa-
cilitated the following project-related activities: com-
munity leaders retreat in St. Ann with approximately 50
community leaders; and Granville Leaders Forum in St.
James with community leaders from Granville and
surrounding communities to discuss the crime
situation.
Community month was celebrated under the theme
“Community Safety: Our Responsibility” and the activities
focused on heightening the awareness of the local citizenry and
other key stakeholders to their role in achieving enhanced
community safety and security, thereby reducing the level of crime
and violence in Jamaica. The SDC continued to use sports as a
tool to engage communities and provide organizational
strengthening to local governance structures. The major sporting
initiatives hosted by the SDC were the National Cricket
Competition and the National Track and Field Athletics Meet.
25.19
Other activities in which the Commission was engaged
include the following:
— Communities were encouraged to prepare and
submit project proposals to various funding
sources and at December 2009, 132 project pro-
posals were submitted to JSIF (PRP II and Sum-
mer Camps), Universal Access Fund and the For-
est Conservation Fund.
— Support was given to 163 community events
(community sports, community festivals and ex-
positions, and summer camps). Among the com-
munity festivals supported were the Orange Bay
Breadfruit Festival in Portland, the Cockpit Vil-
lage Festival and the Middle Quarters Shrimp
Festival in St. Elizabeth, and the Linstead Ackee
Festival in St. Catherine.
The volunteerism drive, “Beyond the Call of Duty”,
encouraged volunteerism in communities. Some activities to
date include furnishing and beautification of Early
Childhood Institutions in the underserved communities of
Russia (Westmoreland) and New Haven (KSA).
In partnership with a number of stakeholders, a
Community Month supplement highlighting the work of the
Commission was published.
The activities of the Community Development Unit
(CDU) in the Ministry of Water and Housing were in the
areas of:
— Monitoring of strata corporations/management
committees
— Training of community leaders
— Assisting in the preparation of project proposals
— Event Planning
— Providing security of tenure
— Divesting upgrading sires
— Selling formerly rented units under the Inner city
Divestment Programme
Occupancy audits were conducted for 5 866 persons
impacted by Tropical Storm Gustav. The results of the audit
showed that 472 homes were completely destroyed, 2 121
severely damaged, 2 624 had minor damage, 636 persons
lost household items and 13 lost crops or animals. The
majority of persons (53.2 and 24.8 per cent) were from the
parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew, and Portland
respectively. Upon completion of housing units by Food for
the Poor, 182 persons will be relocated. Of the total number
of persons to be relocated, 173 will be sent to West Albion in
St. Thomas and nine to Darlingford in Portland. Occupancy
audits were also conducted for 433 households in Arnett
Gardens Phase III, and in Dump Site and Hague in Trelawny.
The CDU facilitated the provision of security of tenure to
40 residents and partnered with the National Water
Commission (NWC) to complete installation of individual
water metres to 200 households in Duhaney Park. The unit
also intervened in conflicts and cautioned residents about
building codes and boundary violation in Orange and
McIntyre Villas, and worked with residents to organize a
clean up in Andrew Mews, Olympic Gardens. Four health
fairs (two per community) were organized in Duhaney Park
 25.20
and McIntyre Land Housing Schemes and residents were screened
for hypertension and diabetes. Officers from the CDU provided
residents in a number of communities with advice on the following
areas:
— Arrears management
— Peril insurance coverage
— Payment of property taxes
— Uses and value of certificates of title
— Funding for small businesses
A total of 1 487 investigations were conducted to determine
needy persons for assistance under the Ministry’s Social Housing
Programme. In its aim to provide security of tenure, lease
agreements and keys were presented to 14 residents from Andrew
Mews. Additionally, 126 solutions were marketed under the
programme for the divestment of upgrading and serviced sites and
40 formerly rented units were advertised for sale.
The National Transformation Programme (NTP) branded
Fresh Start Jamaica, seeks to transform and unite mass public
perception and action concerning “right and wrong” values and
attitudes morally, socially and economically. The mission of the
NTP is “To mobilize, coordinate and energize a process of positive
change and renewal for the Jamaican people, by the Jamaican
people.” A consultant was engaged to prepare the project
document that will guide the operations of the NTP. However,
during the year, a number of preliminary activities were
undertaken. This included:
— formal inauguration and launch of NTP;
— review of previous Values and Attitudes Programmes;
— consultations and sensitization sessions held with key
stakeholders and partners regarding the programme;
— development of a mass media campaign in partnership
with the Jamaica Information Service;
— participation in Think-Tank Core Group Meetings and
media sensitization sessions such as the Observer
Think tank session in partnership with Jamaica Foun-
dation for Lifelong Learning (JFLL);
TABLE 25.9
JAMAICA SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND
STATUS OF PROJECTS, 2009
(Value and Cost in $Million)
Sector Number Approved
Social Infrastructure 63
Economic Infrastructure 17
Social Services 32
Organizational Strengthening 2 37.8
Special Projects 4 43.0
TOTAL 118
Note: Value refers to JSIF cost
Total project cost includes the community contribution
— establishment of Students for Transformation
(SFT) – a youth intervention programme com-
prising student leaders in an initial 15 schools in
Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Catherine and St.
Ann;
— several “Pon di corner” tours in 10 Hotspots
communities;
— development of a comprehensive behaviour
modification programme at the Half Way Tree
Transport Centre;
— formation of a multi-sectoral beautification com-
mittee to identify key areas islandwide requiring
clean up and beautification. This is geared to-
wards stimulating the spirit of volunteerism while
encouraging the maintenance of a first-class
community;
— erection of five road signs in Kingston;
— facilitation of a Parenting seminar geared towards
National Parenting Curriculum.
— partnership with HEART Trust/NTA to prepare a
proposal for submission to the MOE for the de-
velopment of the Night Time Incentive Continu-
ing Ed u ca tion Programme (NTICE). This
programme will target unattached person aged
17–20 years; and
— participation in the development of the Career
Advancement Programme (CAP).
The Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) is one of
the main implementers of community-development
initiatives. The JSIF continued to assist the Government to
identify and mobilize financing from local, regional and
international donors and lenders, and to channel these funds
to community-based social and economic infrastructure and
social services projects. This year the JSIF’s Board of
Directors approved 118 new projects for funding at a cost of
$1.9 billion (Table 25.9). The projects under the Social
Infrastructure component (63) included the improvement of
basic community infrastructure (such as zinc fence
removal), repairs to health centres and schools damaged by
Hurricane Dean in 2007 and the construction, expansion and
Value of Projects Total Project Cost Number Completed Value of Completed
Approved
1 076.6 1 146.6 50 306.5
363.4 381.1 9 146.0
181.8 258.0 11 19.9
40.0 0 0.0
44.4 - -
1 702.6 1870.1 70 472.4
Source: Jamaica Social Investment Fund

TABLE 25.10
JAMAICA SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND
STATUS OF PROJECTS
(Value and Cost in $Million)
Cumulative 1996-2009
Sector Number Value of Projects Total Project Cost
Approved Approved
Social Infrastructure 724 4 946.2
Economic Infrastructure 171 1 811.5
Social Services 201 293.9
Organizational Strengthening 110 111.1
Special Projects 4 43.0
TOTAL 1 210 7 205.7
Note: Value refers to JSIF cost
Total project cost includes the community contribution
equipping of schools. The Social Services projects (32) approved
were mainly in the area of youth education and recreation.
Economic Infrastructure projects (17) addressed road
rehabilitation and improvement to basic community
infrastructure. Organizational Strengthening projects (2)
addressed training and capacity building needs. The Special
Projects (4) covered special equipment such as the provision of
H1N1 Ventilators to MOH.
Seventy projects at a total cost of $498.0 million were
completed, with the JSIF contribution being $472.4 million. As in
the previous year, most of the projects completed (71.4 per cent)
were in the area of Social Infrastructure while other projects
completed were in the area of Life Coping Skills and included
summer camps. Some 109 338 persons were beneficiaries of the
projects completed during the year. This represents a 115.4 per
cent increase in the number of beneficiaries when compared
with the previous year. Since its inception in 1996, JSIF has
approved 1 210 projects. Of this number, 864 have been
completed, with JSIF contributing approximately $4.4 billion of
the total project cost of $5.0 billion (Table 25.10).
JSIF received ISO 14001: 2004 certification in January,
following a year of preparation and implementation of an
Environmental Management System (EMS). This international
certification signals that JSIF has achieved and is striving to
maintain a balance between poverty reduction through
community development and the protection of the environment.
The JSIF continued to implement infrastructure projects in an
environmentally responsible manner in areas including public
safety and crime and violence prevention, disaster risk reduction,
poverty reduction and social protection.
JSIF’s contribution to crime prevention is carried out under the
Inner City Basic Services Project (ICBSP), the Second Poverty
Reduction Programme (PRP II) and the Jamaica Violence Action
(JAVA) Fund. In the area of Public Safety and Crime and Violence
Prevention, the ICBSP, which is being implemented in 12
inner-city communities8, combines a mix of infrastructure
8 The communities are Flanker in St. James; Bucknor in Clarendon; Central Village, Tawes Meadows, Shelter Rock, Africa, Lauriston
and Knollis in St. Catherine; and Jones Town, Federal Gardens, Whitfield Town and Passmore Town in Kingston & St. Andrew.
25.21
Number Completed Value of Total Project Cost
Completed
5 501.0 582 2 921.2 3 337.1
1 967.7 142 1 356.9 1 482.2
446.4 61 69.4 98.1
136.1 79 37.5 51.6
44.4 - - -
8 095.6 864 4 385.0 4 969.0
Source: Jamaica Social Investment Fund
development projects and public safety initiatives. The
projects completed during the year contributed to improved
access to and better road networks, surface drains and storm
water drains, water supply, sewage disposal as well as a
multipurpose community facility and replacement of zinc
fences with block walls at a cost of $208.0 million and
benefiting 16 968 persons.
Under the ICBSP’s Youth Education and Recreation
project, which caters to children aged 6–12 years, a total of
1 563 children — 574 boys and 989 girls — benefited from
supervised homework and GSAT classes in all 12
communities, at a cost of $27.3 million. Some 109 males and
97 females in the 13–19 age-group participated in a
mentoring programme, which had an associated cost of $5.5
million. Additionally, the JSIF spent $3.8 million on summer
programmes designed to provide recreational activities for
473 males and 713 females aged 6–19 years.
Implementation of activities began under the Second
Poverty Reduction Programme (PRP II) which aims to
improve socio-economic conditions and quality of life in
communities with an emphasis on the promotion of
community safety and the reduction of criminal behaviour in
volatile and vulnerable communities. Work commenced on
two projects valued at $44.5 million. The JSIF received a
$233.2 million (US$2.7 million) grant from the Japanese
Social Development Fund (JSDF) and began preparatory
activities for the implementation of community
interventions under the Jamaica Violence Action (JAVA)
Fund to support the Government’s efforts to reduce the
incidence of crime and violence in high risk and vulnerable
inner-city communities, specifically those targeted by the
ICBSP.
With regard to disaster risk reduction, under the
Hurricane Dean Emergency Recovery Project (ERP) 22
primary schools, 1 basic school, 14 health centres and 11
roads were completed at a cost of $339.6 million, improving
 25.22
access to socio-economic infrastructure for a total of 74 893
beneficiaries. The project has two training components, under
which 272 high school students were trained as emergency first
responders and form the Preparedness Emergency and Response
Corps. Some 162 persons within maintenance committees were
trained in 32 communities to lead and coordinate efforts to
preserve rehabilitated community facilities.
JSIF’s poverty reduction efforts were carried out through the
Basic Needs Trust Fund Fifth Programme (BNTF 5), the
European Union Banana Support Programme (EU BSP) and the
Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI). The BNTF 5 is
funded by a US$6.0 million grant from the Caribbean
D e v e lo p me n t Ba n k ( CD B ) . Wo r k c o n ti n u e d o n th e
implementation of social infrastructure, skills training and
organizational strengthening projects. One primary school and
four basic schools were completed at a cost of $80.7 million.
Additionally, 41 males and 58 females participated in skills
training in areas including gardening, banana paper making,
garment manufacturing, conflict resolution and mediation. The
JSIF implemented infrastructure improvement projects funded
from a €1.156 million grant from the European Union Banana
Support Programme (EU BSP). Work began on the rehabilitation
of 4.8 km of the total of 8.4 km of rural farm roadway targeted
under this programme.
Preparatory activities relating to the Rural Economic
Development Initiative (REDI) (formerly Second National
Community Development Project – NCDP 2) were completed,
paving the way for full implementation in 2010. The REDI is
aimed at reducing rural poverty in targeted areas9 by enhancing
marketing opportunities for income generation and economic
development in agricultural and rural tourism sectors, thereby
increasing the earning potential of these communities. REDI is
funded by a US$15.0 million loan from the World Bank.
JSIF began implementation of a 24-month social protection
pilot programme called Bridge Jamaica. Bridge Jamaica is an
adaptation of the Chilean Programa Puente and provides
psychosocial support to families as a means of overcoming
extreme poverty. The main objective of the intervention is to assist
destitute female-headed households to improve their basic living
conditions via 24 months of personalized accompaniment by a
Family Support Counsellor. The 10 families, comprising 70
individuals in the pilot phase of the programme, are to benefit
from improved access to personal identification, health services,
education and training, improved family dynamics, employment
and income opportunities. These benefits are provided through a
network of NGOs and state agencies of a Social Protection
Network set up for this purpose.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The major areas of focus under the Local Government Reform
Programme are: governance; structure and functions of the Local
Authorities (LAs); service delivery; financial management;
financing framework; organizational restructuring and
institutional capacity strengthening; legal framework;
enforcement of Municipal Laws/Regulations; modernization of
local authorities and local government systems; and international
collaboration.
9 The target parishes are Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Hanover, St. James, Trelawny and St. Ann as well as
the Blue and John Crow Mountain range.
The Final National Advisory Council (NAC) Report
outlining the strategic direction of the Local Government
Reform Programme was completed. The relationship
between the LAs and Parish Development Committees
(PDCs) was strengthened with the support of the National
Association of Parish Development Committees
(NAPDCs), SDC and the Department of Local Government
(DLG). All Councils established Reform Committees in
preparation for autonomy and advanced critical initiatives
under the Reform Agenda. The DLG implemented an
initiative called Direct Contact Intervention (DCI) with a
view to advancing the Reform Agenda and preparing the
LAs for independence from Central Government.
The Terms of Reference (TOR) for the ‘Review of the
Portmore Municipality Experience’ was completed. The
DLG commenced the process of transferring functions
presently being performed by the Department on behalf of
the Parish Councils. These include: Leave of Absence;
Pension Administration; Classification; Reclassification
and Abolition of Posts; Loan Approvals; Disposal and
A c q u is i ti o n s o f La n d ; St r ee t Li g h t; a n d Le a v e
Administration. The DLG collaborated with various
stakeholders to develop a Municipal Performance
Measurement and Reporting System (MPM&RS),
including the administrative framework for implementation,
identification of specific services, and the development of
performance measures for the LAs.
Local Public Accounts and Audit Committees were
established and 12 Parish Councils held meetings of their
Public Accounts Committees while 11 had active Audit
Committees. The new legislation will make provision for
the mandatory establishment of these committees, and will
outline rules for their composition and operation.
Approximately $1.7 billion was recorded for Property Tax
collection. The period saw the streamlining of the Parochial
Revenue Fund (PRF), particularly the Equalization Fund, to
ensure that it is used to support the long-term development
of the LAs. A Revenue Workshop was conducted for
Mayors, Senior Councillors and Senior Managers of
Councils. Over 130 Municipal Police Officers were
recruited, trained and assigned to all Councils to assist with
the maintenance of public order in urban centres as well as
generating revenue through greater enforcement.
PriceWaterHouseCoopers was awarded the contract to
undertake Organizational Re-structuring and Institutional
Capacity Strengthening and during the period commenced
data collection and interviews within the Councils. The
Concept Paper covering the Strategic Laws of Governance,
Finance and Unified Services and Employment, including
the development of the Policy Objectives, was completed
and consultations held. In collaboration with the Chief
Parliamentary Counsel, a Drafting Specialist was contracted
to fast track preparation of the drafting instructions. A Needs
Assessment was completed and the relevant planning action
taken to identify resource needs at different stages of the
implementation process. The Department recruited and
trained Municipal Police Officers. The draft proposal for
legislation to establish Municipal Court was prepared and
submitted to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). The

establishment of the Municipal Courts has been adopted by the
MOJ as a part of the Justice Sector Reform Programme.
The Regional Policy and Cooperation Framework (RPCF)
was executed under the Canadian International Development
Agency (CIDA) funded Programme. DLG is the Secretariat for
the Caribbean Forum of Local Government Ministers (CFLGM),
including the Americas Region. Negotiations commenced with
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for collaboration on
funding to implement agreed policies of the RPCF. DLG
collaborated with UN-Habitat in executing a two-day workshop in
Jamaica in July, under the theme: “National Dialogue on
Decentralization and its Consequences for Development in
Jamaica.”
Other Local Government activities include:
— development of a Councillor’s Handbook to educate
Councillors on their roles and responsibilities, includ-
ing the legal framework which currently guides their
powers.
— the Day-in-Council visits, which are part of the Depart-
ment’s ongoing public education and sensitization ef-
forts on Local Government Reform. During the visits,
the responsible Minister attended Special Council
Meetings, toured markets, fire stations, agencies, infir-
maries and other projects and facilities of the Local Au-
thorities. The first phase of the visits commenced in
July 2008, with the Westmoreland, Hanover, St. James
and Trelawny Parish Councils. Visits to the other 10
Councils were completed during the year.
— implementation of the European Union (EU) funded
Banana Project, which seeks to provide sustainable
community-based benefits to the traditional banana
production areas. The overall objective is to supple-
ment and complement the GOJ’s poverty reduction and
local sustainable development planning strategies by
facilitating better access of the poor to benefits in the
rural areas, particularly in the six traditional banana
growing parishes. These are St. Thomas, Portland, St.
Catherine, Clarendon, St. Mary and St. James. The EU
contributed $211.8 million, while the Jamaican Gov-
ernment, through the six Councils, earmarked $85.1
million to finance the project. Some of the projects
completed during the period included: construction of a
building for West Prospect Basic School and a water
project in St. Catherine; construction of the Kensington
Community Centre in St. James; road works in St.
Thomas; road works in Zion Hill and Duke Street; and
construction of the Cumberland Health Centre in St.
Mary.
— the launch of the Ananda Alert system in May, by the
DLG, in conjunction with the Association of Local
Government Authorities of Jamaica (ALGAJ) and the
Jamaica Constabulary Force, against the background
of large numbers of missing children. Several consulta-
tions were held with public and private entities, includ-
ing civil society, in an effort to create a rapid and seam-
less nationwide response to children who go missing.
The two major telephone service providers sponsored
the dissemination of text messages on missing children
to their subscribers.
10 See Chapter 24, National Security and Justice, for additional information on CSJP
25.23
— establishment of a Strategic Modernization Com-
mittee to ensure that the recommendations out-
lined in the Strategic Review of the Jamaica Fire
Brigade (JFB), done in 2005, were implemented.
A significant focus of this Committee is to recom-
mend new services that can be adopted by the Bri-
gade and include adjustments to its fee structure
to improve viability. The Department undertook
research to ascertain the services provided by the
JFB and fees charged, and services provided by
Fire Brigades internationally (Caribbean, North
America, Europe and Asia) and fees charged. The
study, out lin ing rec om men da tions, was
subsequently presented to the Brigade.
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOs)
The Kingston Restoration Company Limited (KRC)
has been implementing crime reduction and prevention
services under the Ministry of National Security’s Citizen
Security and Justice Programme (CSJP). These services are
part of the Community Action Component of the CSJP10.
The KRC provided services for ten communities, namely:
Denham Town, Hannah Town, Waterhouse, Rockfort,
August Town, Cassia Park/Ambrook Lane, Kencot, Grants
Pen, Mountain View, and Trench Town. During the
period, 1 137 primary school students were provided with
homework/tutorial assistance. A total of 358 youths and
adults were offered tuition in CXC Mathematics and English
u n d e r th e C o n ti n u a ti o n E d u ca t io n P r o g r a mme .
Additionally, parenting and community workshops were
held with 958 participants.
The Dispute Resolution Foundation (DRF) provided
advocacy, policy, training and services to the Government of
Jamaica and the public. In the areas of Mediation &
Arbitration, the DRF received 1 387 new referral cases
between January and November. During the period October
1, 2008 to September 30, 2009, the DRF mediated in 743
cases referred by the Supreme Court and of the total, 26.1 per
cent was completed with agreement while 26.5 per cent was
completed without agreement. The DRF implemented
MadTrac software which is a tool to aid in managing cases
including those referred by the Supreme and Residents
Magistrate Courts.
The DRF also continued implementation of the
UNICEF-funded project, “Conflict Resolution as a
Solution: Creating Safe Places for Learning.” The survey
results of a baseline assessment on conflict and violence in
27 schools in Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Catherine and St.
James were published. A total of 4 802 students (2 565
males) accessed the services of the DRF between January
and September. Six hundred and forty students (423 males)
participated in the ‘School Suspension Intervention
Programme.’ The main infringements for which students
were suspended are fighting, behavioural problems,
insubordination, possession of an offensive weapon, and
truancy. As a part of the programme, adolescents were
provided with conflict resolution and anger management
training, mediation and healing circle. The rate of
recidivism was low as only 12 students were again
suspended.
 25.24
School-based intervention, which include managing conflict
and anger, mediation techniques, the importance of dispute
resolution and addressing self-esteem issues, was
conducted for 1 750 teenagers (884 males). An additional 2 343
youths from various youth clubs islandwide were also sensitized
as part of the Foundation’s outreach activities. A total of 245
parents (197 females) and 160 school-based professionals (106
females) were sensitized in a number of workshops. The
programme operates from DRF’s service points in Trench Town,
Spanish Town, Rockfort, Flanker, Camp Road and the Boys’
Brigade Centre on Camp Road.
In addition to Restorative Justice Workshops held in the
Granville community in St. James and at the Justice Training
Institute, the Foundation conducted a number of training courses
in: mediation; training; conflict resolution; and, arbitration.
CULTURE
The Institute of Jamaica (IOJ) commemorated its 130th
anniversary celebrations over the period. The IOJ and its
divisions11 undertook several initiatives in its efforts to preserve
Jamaica’s natural and cultural heritage, particularly through,
literature, science and art. The initiatives from the IOJ were in the
following areas: Research and Development; Exhibitions,
Displays and Dissemination; and Museum Development and
Improvement.
Two major heritage projects were undertaken funded by
USAID and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on
Agriculture (IICA). The goals of the projects were to develop
heritage- and eco-tourism initiatives in two communities. The
Musgrave Awards ceremony remained one of the main activities
for the IOJ. Twelve persons were honoured for their contribution
in the fields of Literature, Science and Art. In addition, four
movements were recognized for their contribution to cultural
development in Jamaica: Rastafari, Kumina, Revival and the
Maroons. The Jamaica Journal received international exposure
with the launch of the Online Collection at the Florida
International University and a conference in Havana, Cuba. In
addition, several acquisitions were made to boost the capacity of
the Institute’s museums.
The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC)
continued to fulfil its mandate through the execution of several
cultural events as well as an extensive developmental programme
for the performing arts through various workshops and seminars.
The national cultural events sought to facilitate and engender
positive cultural values and attitudes. This enabled the further
development and preservation of Jamaica’s intangible cultural
heritage. The National Emancipation and Independence
celebrations were held under the theme“I Believe in Jamaica” .
The National Festival of the Arts12 continued to unearth, develop
and showcase many talents islandwide. The Entertainment Arts
programmes — Festival and Gospel Song; Miss Jamaica Festival
Queen; and World Reggae Dance Competitions — continued to
deliver high quality entertainment, showcasing creative
expressions. Several civic and commemorative events were held
to pay homage to national and cultural icons.
11 African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica/Jamaica Memory Bank; Programme Coordination Division (Junior Centres), Jamaica Music
Museum, Liberty Hall, Museums of History and Ethnography; Natural History Museum of Jamaica; and National Gallery of
Jamaica.
12 Dance, Music, Drama, Speech, Traditional Folk Forms, Culinary Arts, Creative Writing, Visual Arts.
The Culture in Education Programme (CIEP) in the
Ministry of Education played an integral role in fostering
greater cultural awareness within the school community.
Several initiatives were undertaken to incorporate cultural
development in the curricula of school programmes. This
was done through ongoing ‘Culture Agents’ Workshops
with teachers across the island; commemoration of Jamaica
Day activities; and fora to encourage the promotion of
cultural industries and entrepreneurship through the
education system.
The Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education
(CHASE) Fund continued to provide support under the
Arts and Culture portfolio to fulfil its mandate through the
following areas: (i) improving library, archives and
documentation facilities; (ii) developing talents and skills of
youth in the areas of Arts and Culture; (iii) acquisition,
restoration and maintenance and use of historical sites and
monuments; (iv) support for participation in cultural
activities; (v) creation and preservation of documentary film
footage on Jamaica’s history; and (vi) support to local
museums. Between April and December 2009, 69 initiatives
totalling approximately $134.3 million in grants were
approved. This was a decline of 8.1 per cent relative to the
$146.2 million approved for 88 projects in 2008/09.
Approximately 62.3 per cent of projects approved in FY
2009/10 were in the areas of the performing arts; literary
works; and music, film and media.
The Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO)
played its role in advancing cultural development over the
period. JIPO, in collaboration with Jamaica Trade and Invest
(JTI), launched a forum on “Protection of our country name
– Jamaica”. This forum sought to address the concern for the
widespread use of the country’s name on a number of
products in the European market as an element of their
trademark. The scope of trademark usage, the implications
and legal considerations were addressed. Output from these
discussions will be used to inform guidelines and principles
to be developed by the World Intellectual Property Office
(WIPO).
OUTLOOK
The Third and Fourth Periodic Reports to the United
Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, on Jamaica’s
progress on the Articles of the Convention on the Rights of
the Child, are expected to be completed early in 2010.
Under the Support to the Food Price Crisis Project
funded by the IDB, the MLSS expects to upgrade office
equipment, initiate preparations for a training facility,
relocate the KSA office, and support the payment of PATH
benefits. Within the nutrition component implemented in
collaboration with the MOH, a test questionnaire will be
developed, pilot households selected, and new nutrition
norms and protocols adopted. Two studies addressing the
consumption patterns and coping strategies of poor
households, and the characteristics of PATH households
with children will be advanced. ¢
 LIST OF TABLES
Chapter 1: The International Economy
1.1: Annual Per Cent Change in Global Output and Trade, 2003 - 2009
1.2: Annual Average Per Cent Change in Consumer Prices, 2003 - 2009
1.3a: Global Unemployment Rate by Regions, 2005 - 2009
1.3b: Unemployment Rate for Industrialized Countries (Per Cent), 2003 - 2009
1.4: Selected Commodity Price Data, 2004 - 2009 (US$)
1.5: Global Foreign Direct Investment Inflows, 2007 - 2009 (US$ Billion)
1.6: Capital Flows to Emerging Market & Developing Countries, 2003 - 2009 (US$ Billion)

Chapter 2: Official Development Assistance (ODA)

2.1: Sources of New Official Development Assistance, 2001 - 2009 (US$ Million)
2.2: Net Flow, 2009 (US$ Million)
2.3: Summary of 2009 Official Development Assistance
2.4: Value of Scholarships Awarded

Chapter 3: Sustainable Development

3.1: Selected Sustainable Development Indicators 2004 - 2009
3.2: Budgetary Allocations for Selected Environmental Management and Related Programmes, 2007/08 - 2009/10
3.3: EFJ Grants Approved for Environmental Projects, 2003/04 - 2008/09
3.4: Average per Capita Waste Generation, 2007 - 2009 Volume (KG/Day)
3.5: Development Applications Received and Processed, 2006/07 - 2008/09
3.6: Disaster Risk Reduction Activities Undertaken by ODPEM, 2009
3.7: Genuine Fires and Impacts by Parish, 2009
3.8: Selected GIS Indicators, 2007 - 2009
3.9: New Geo-Spatial Data Created in Selected Agencies, 2009
3.10: Capacity Building in GIS
3.11: Collaborative Efforts in GIS, 2009

Chapter 4: Science, Technology and Innovation

4.1: Public Expenditure in Selected STI Programmes and Agencies ($’000)
4.2: Jamaica Candidates Sitting Selected S&T Subjects in the CSEC, May-June Examinations (General and Technical
Proficiency Levels), 2006 - 2009
4.3: Selected STI Capacity Building Activities, 2009
4.4: Jamaica’s Performance in the Network Readiness Index, 2004 - 2009
4.5: Internet Penetration in Jamaica for Selected Years 2000 - 2009
4.6: Tele-Density in Jamaica, 2005 - 2009
4.7: Cumulative Number of Automated Banking Machines by Parish, 2005 - 2009
4.8: Patents Filed and Granted in Jamaica to Selected Countries, 2004 - 2009

Chapter 5: Gross Domestic Product

5.1: Value Added by Industry at Constant (2003) Prices, 2004 - 2009 ($ Million)
5.2: Year Over Year Change of Value Added by Industry at Constant (2003) Prices, 2004 - 2009 (Per Cent)
5.3: Contribution to Gross Domestic Product in Basic Values at Constant (2003) Prices, 2004 - 2009 (Per Cent)
5.4: Contribution to Total Goods and Services Production, in Basic Values at Constant (2003) Prices, 2004 - 2009
(Per Cent)
5.5: Value Added by Industry at Current Prices, 2004 - 2009 ($ Million)
5.6: Jamaica: Selected Medium-Term Macro-Economic Targets FY 2009/10 - FY 2013/14

Chapter 6: Balance of Payments and External Trade

6.1: Balance of Payments, 2002 - 2009, (US$ Million)
6.2: Merchandise Trade By SITC Section, 2008 - 2009 (US$ Million)
6.3: Traditional and Non-Traditional Exports, 2008 - 2009 (US$ Million)
6.4: CARICOM Trade, 2008 - 2009 (US$ Million)
6.5: Jamaica’s Remittance Flows, 2007- 2009

Chapter 7: Money and Inflation

7.1: Rates on Selected BOJ OMO Instruments for 2009
7.2: Summary of the Monetary Authority’s Accounts, December 2007- December 2009 ($ Million)
7.3: Determinants of Money Supply, December 2007- December 2009 ($ Million)
7.4: Percentage Change in the Consumer Price Index by Region (Point-to-Point), 2005 - 2009 (Percentages)
7.5: Annual Inflation, 2005 - 2009 (Percentages)

Chapter 8: Fiscal Accounts

8.1a: Summary of Central Government Fiscal Operations, 2005/06 - 2009/10 ($ Million)
8.1b: Summary of Central Government Fiscal Operations, 2005/06 - 2009/10 ($ Million)
8.2: Functional Classification of Recurrent and Capital Expenditure, FY 2005/06 - 2009/2010 ($ Million)
8.3a: Tax Revenue Collections, 2005/06 - 2009/10 ($ Million)
8.3b: Tax Revenue Collections, 2005/06 - 2009/10
8.4: Overall Summary of Enhanced Revenue Measures
8.5: Jamaica: Medium Term Macro-Economic Targets

Chapter 9: Finance & Insurance Services

9.1: A Summary of Legislative Developments, 2005- 2009
9.2: Assets and Liabilities of the Bank of Jamaica at December, 2008 - 2009 ($’000)
9.3: Institutions in the Jamaican Financial System, 2005 - 2009
9.4: Selected Key Indicators of Deposit-Taking Institutiions Performance, 2004 - 2009
9.5: Assets of Commercial Banks
9.6: Commercial Banks Loans and Advances, 2005 - 2009 ($’000)
9.7: Assets of Institutions Licensed Under the Financial Institutions Act, 2005 - 2009
9.8: Loans and Advances Outstanding to Licenses under the Financial Institutions Act ($’000)
9.9: Assets of Building Societies
9.10: Commercial Banks’ Weighted Average Monthly Loan Rates, 2008 - 2009
9.11: Commercial Banks Monthly Weighted Average Deposit Rates (Percentage)
9.12: Performance Indicators of the Life Insurance Industry, 2003 - 2009
9.13: Performance Indicators for the General Insurance Industry, 2003 - 2009 ($Million)

Chapter 10: Agriculture

10.1: Agriculture Production Index, 2003 = 100
10.2: Value of Agricultural Exports, 2005 - 2009 (US$’000)
10.3: Production Statistics: Sugar Cane and Derivatives, 2005 - 2009
10.4: Sugar Exports by Destination, 2005 - 2009
10.5: Production of Selected Traditional Export Crops, 2005 - 2009
10.6: Farmgate Prices of Selected Traditional Export Crops, 2005 - 2009
10.7: Domestic Crop Production, 2005 - 2009
10.8: Domestic Farmgate Price Index, 2005 - 2009, 2003 = 100
10.9: Livestock Production, 2005 - 2009
10.10: Development Bank of Jamaica: Loan Allocation to the Agricultural Industry: 2005 - 2009 ($’000)
10.11: Agricultural Credit: 2005 - 2009 (J$’000)

Chapter 11: Mining and Quarrying

11.1: Jamaica Bauxite/Alumina Production and Exports (‘000 tonnes)
11.2: Total Value of Exports & Foreign Exchange Earnings, 2005 - 2009 (US$ Million)
11.3: Selected Costs of Production per Unit of Alumina Production in the Bauxite/Alumina Sub-Industry, 2005 - 2009
(US$/Metric Tonne)
11.4: Operational Status of Bauxite/Alumina Companies
11.5: Primary Aluminium Production/Consumption Balance, 2005 - 2009 (‘000 tonnes)
11.6: Production of Industrial Minerals, 2005 - 2009 (‘000 tonnes)

Chapter 12: Manufacture

12.1: Output of Selected Manufactured Commodities, 2005 - 2009
12.2: Total Exports from the Manufacture Industry, 2007 - 2009 (US$’000s)
12.3: Structure of Apparel Exports, 2005 - 2009 (US$ Million)
12.4: Outstanding Loans and Advances to the Manufacture Industry at Commercial Banks, 2005 - 2009
Chapter 13: Micro and Small Enterprises
131: JBDC Activities, 2009
13.2: Number of MSEs According to GCT Contributions, 2007 - 2009
13.3: Disbursements by Wholesale Agencies, 2005- 2009
13.4: MicroFin Disbursements, 2009
13.5: JNSBL Loan Disbursement
13.6: Loans Disbursement & Employment Creation

Chapter 14: Construction

14.1: National Housing Trust Loan Programmes
14.2: Major Performance Indicators of the Construction Industry, 2005 - 2009
14.3: Meters Installed by the National Water Commission, 2005 - 2009
14.4: Capital Expenditure By Institutions, ($ Million) 2007 - 2009

Chapter 15: Energy, Electricity and Water

15.1: World Oil Demand, 2005 - 2009 (Million Barrels per day)
15.2: World Oil Supply, 2005 - 2009 (Million Barrels per day)
15.3: Average Billing Prices for Selected Petroleum Products, 2005 - 2009 ($/Litre)
15.4a: Volume and Value of Crude Oil Imports, 2007 - 2009
15.4b: Volume and Value of Petroleum Products Imports, 2007 - 2009
15.5: Jamaica’s Total Energy Consumption, 2005 - 2009
15.6: Petroleum Consumption by Product, 2005 - 2009 (Barrels)
15.7: Petroleum Consumption by Activity, 2005 - 2009 (Barrels)
15.8: JPSCo: Generating Capacity, Output, Heat Rate & Fuel Consumption, 2005 - 2009
15.9: JPSCo: Sales & Revenue, 2005 - 2009
15.10: JPSCo- Average No: Customers, KWH Used, Rates Charged, 2005 - 2009
15.11: Water Projects
15.12: Data on Domestic Water, 2005 - 2009

Chapter 16: Transportation, Storage and Communication

16.1: Taxi Service: Licences Issued, 2005 - 2009
16.2: Ports: Ship Traffic & Cargo Flow, 2005 - 2009
16.3: International Airports: Movement of Aircrafts, Passengers, Cargo and Mail, 2008 - 2009
16.4: Air Jamaica: Basic Operating Data, 2005 - 2009
16.5a: Number of Telecoms Granted, 2004 - 2008
16.5b: Number of Telecom Licence Granted, 2009
16.6: Telephone Subscribers by Categories, 2005 - 2009
16.7: Post and Telecommunications Department Operating and Financial Data, 2005 - 2009
Chapter 17: Tourism
17.1: Incentive/Programmes to the Tourism Industry
17.2: Tourism Performance Indicators, 2005 - 2009
17.3: Stopover Visitors to Jamaica by Country of Origin, 2005 - 2009
17.4a: Prebooked and Freelance Passengers, 2008 - 2009 Montego Bay
17.4b: Prebooked and Freelance Passengers, 2008 - 2009 Ocho Rios
17.5: Average Annual Employment in Hotels and Restaurants, 2008 - 2009
17.6: Stopover Arrivals to the Caribbean, 2008 - 2009
17.7: Cruise Ship Passenger Arrivals to the Caribbean, 2008 - 2009

Chapter 18: Entertainment and Sports

18.1: Percentage Change in Real Gross Sales by Entertainment Categories
18.2: Plays & Drama Productions Staged in 2008 and 2009
18.3: Amusement Licences & Permits Granted
18.4: Projects Funded by Sports Development Foundation, 2005 - 2009
18.5: Sports Development Foundation Distribution of Grants, 2008 - 2009 ($)
18.6: Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association Income, 2005 - 2009 ($)
18.7: Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association Expenditure, 2005 - 2009

Chapter 19: Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repair and Installation of Machinery
19.1: Output and Employment Trends in Distribution, 2005 - 2009
19.2: Cases Investigated and Completed by the FTC, 2008 - 2009
19.3: Consumer Affairs Commission Performance Indicators, 2007 - 2009
19.4: Growth in Gross Sales in Wholesale & Retail Trade; Repairs & Installation of Machinery, 2008 - 2009
19.5: Loans & Advances Outstanding to Firms in WRTRIM and to Consumers, 2007 - 2009

Chapter 20: Population

20.1: Population Growth Statistics, 1995 - 2009
20.2a: Distribution of Women in the Reproductive Ages (15 - 49) Estimates for 2005 - 2009
20.2b: Utilization and Coverage of Public Sector Family Planning Services, 2005 - 2009
20.3a: Mainstreams of Migration from Jamaica, 1998 - 2009
20.3b: Migrants From Jamaica to the United States of America by Age and Sex, 2005 - 2008
20.3c: Jamaican Migrants to the United States of America by Occupational Status, 2005 - 2008
20.3d: Jamaican Immigrants Admitted to the United States of America by Selected Class of Admission, 2005 - 2008
20.3e: Permanent Residents Admitted From Jamaica to Canada by Age, 2005 - 2008
20.3f: Migrants From Jamaica to Canada by Occupation, 2005 - 2009
20.3g: Jamaica Returning Residents and Deportees, 2005 - 2009
20.3h: Immigration to Jamaica, 2005 - 2009
20.4: Population of Jamaica by Age and Sex, End of Year, 2006 - 2009
20.5: End of Year Population of Jamaica by Parish, 2005 - 2009

Chapter 21: The Labour Market

21.1: Main Labour Force Indicators by Sex, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.2: Labour Force by Age Group and Sex, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.3: Employed Labour Force by Age Group and Sex, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.4: Employed Labour Force by Employment Status, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.5: Employed Labour Force by Industry, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.6: Employed Labour Force by Occupation Group, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.7: Full-Time and Part-Time Employment during Survey Week, 2008 - 2009 (’000)
21.8: Unemployment by Major Demographic Groups, 2008 - 2009
21.9: Jamaicans Employed in North America Under the Overseas Employment Programme by Sex and Type of
Employment, 2008 - 2009
21.10: Approved Work Permits by Occupation Group, 2008 - 2009
21.11: Industrial Disputes Reported by Industry and Cause, 2008 - 2009
21.12: Work Stoppages by Industry and Cause, 2008 - 2009
21.13: Top Ten Hot Jobs 2009
21.14: Labour Productivity Levels by Industry, 2005-2009 (2003 J$)
21.15: Aggregate Labour Productivity, 2005-2009 (2003 J$)

Chapter 22: Education and Training

22.1a: Estimates of Expenditure by Function and Programmes, 2008/09 - 2009/10
22.1b: Ministry of Education and Culture Per Capita Expenditure by Educational Level, 2006/07- 2008/09
($Current Prices)
22.1c: Loans/Grants Disbursed by Student Loan Bureau, 2009
22.1d: Financing for Training Programmes, 2008/09 - 2009/10
22.2: Enrolment in Early Childhood Education by School Type and Year, 2004/05 - 2008/09
22.3: Primary Level Enrolment by Type of School, 2006/07 - 2008/09
22.4: Secondary Level Student Enrolment by School Type, 2006/07 - 2008/09
22.5: Teachers Employed in Public Sector Schools by Type of School and Qualification, 2007/08 - 2008/09
22.6: Performance of Jamaican Secondary School Students at the General and Technical Proficiency Levels, Caribbean
Examination Council, 2006 - 2009
22.7: Jamaican Student Performance in the Caribbean Examination Council General CSEC Examinations,
English Language and Mathematics, by School Type, 2009
22.8: Enrolment in Government and Non-Government Special Education Programmes, 2008/09
22.9: Output of Skilled and Semi-Skilled Manpower by Occupation, 2007 - 2009
22.10: Enrolment and Output of Skilled and Semi-Skilled Manpower from Non-Formal Human Employment and
Resource Training/ National Training Agency Programmes, 2007/08 - 2008/09
22.11: NVQ-J Certificates Awarded to Completer by Level, 2007/08
22.12: Output of Professional, Senior Officials and Technicians, 2007 - 2009
22.13: Enrolment in Selected Tertiary Institutions, by Gender 2008/09
22.14: Enrolment by Faculty and Gender, UW I 2007/08 - 2008/09
22.15: Enrolment and Graduation at University of Technology, Jamaica by School/Departments, 2007/08 - 2008/09

Chapter 23: Health

23.1a: Ministry of Health and its Departments Recurrent and Capital Budgets by Programme, 2008/09 - 2009/10
23.1b: Ministry of Health Recurrent Budget by Region, 2008/09 and 2009/10
23.2: Network of Services Delivery Facilities, 2009
23.3: Curative Visits to Primary Health Care Facilities by Leading Conditions and Region, Public Health Sector, 2009
(January - June)
23.4: Indicators of Utilization of Acute Secondary Care Facilities in the Public Health Sector, 2005 - 2009
23.5: Pharmacy Services at Public Health Centres by Region and Parish, 2008 (January - June)
23.6: Pharmacy Services at Public Hospitals by Region, 2009
23.7: Immunization Coverage, 2005 - 2009 (Per Cent)
23.8: Patients Seen in Accident & Emergency Units of Public Hospitals by Condition, Gender and Age, 2009,
(January - June)

Chapter 24: National Security and Justice

24.1a: Ministry of National Security Recurrent and Capital Budget by Functions, 2008/09 - 2009/109 ($‘000)
24.1b: Ministry of Justice Recurrent and Capital Budget by Functions, 20008/09 - 2009/10 ($‘000)
24.2: Establishment and Strength of the Jamaica Constabulary Force as at December 31, 2009
24.3: Jamaica Constabulary Force Attrition by Reason
24.4: Number and Types of Crimes Reported and Cleared Up, 2007 - 2009
24.5: Selected Major Crimes by Parish, 2009
24.6: Age Group and Sex of Persons Arrested for Selected Major Crime, 2009
24.7a: Age Group and Sex of Victims of Selected Major Crimes, 2009
24.7b: Age Group and Sex of Victims of Selected Major Crimes, 2008
24.8: Number of Persons Deported to Jamaica by Types of Crimes and Country, 2008 and 2009
24.9: Reported Road Accidents Involving Fatalities by Parish, January 1 - December 31, 2009
24.10: Age Group and Sex of Road Users Who Died in Traffic Accidents, 2008 and 2009
24.11: Quantity of Drugs Seized and Destroyed, 2008 and 2009
24.12: Population Figures and Ideal Capacity of Adult Institution as at December 31, 2009
24.13: Total Admissions to Adult Correctional Institutions by Offence and Age Group and Sex, 2009
24.14: Total New Admissions to Adult Correctional Centres by Age, 2009
24.15: Number of Re-offenders Admitted to Adult Institutions by Sex, 2005 - 2009
24.16: Incidence of Recidivism by Age and Institutions, 2009
24.17: Population Figures to Juvenile Institutions as at December 31, 2009
24.18: Admission to Juvenile Institutions by Age, Sex and Offence, 2009
24.19: Reasons Juveniles Appeared Before the Court, 2007 - 2009
24.20: Non-Custodial Sentences by Parish and Sex (New Cases), 2009
24.21: Persons Seeking Assistance, 2005 - 2009
24.22: Cases in the Court of Appeal, 2009
24.23: Number of Criminal Cases Filed and Disposed in the Supreme Courts by Parish, 2009
24.24: Cases in the Supreme Court Division of the Gun Court, 2009
24.25: Cases in the Resident Magistrates’ Court, 2009

Chapter 25: Social Development, Social Protection and Culture

25.1: Social Development, Welfare and Culture, Recurrent and Capital Budget by Programme,
2008/09 - 2009/10 ($’000)
25.2: Children in Care Breakdown by sex per Region as at December 31, 2009
25.3: Children Population in Government-Run Institutions, 2009
25.4: National Council for Senior Citizens Referrals, 2009
25.5: PATH Beneficiaries by Parish and Category Paid December 2009
25.6: Beneficiaries of Public Assistance by Programme and Parish, 2009
25.7: National Insurance Pensions and Employment Injury Benefits, Number of Beneficiaries, 2008 and 2009
25.8: National Insurance Fund, Income and Expenditure, 2008 and 2009 (J$ Million)
25.9: Jamaica Social Investment Fund, Status of Projects, 2009 (Value and Cost in $Million)
25.10: Jamaica Social Investment Fund, Status of Projects (Value and Cost in $Million)
 LIST OF FIGURES
9A: Real Value Added Growth for Finance & In-
2A: Total New ODA surance Services, 2000 - 2009

2B: Disbursements by Source, 2001 - 2009 9B: Past Due Loans to Total Loans Ratio, 2004 -
2009
2C: Distribution of New Official Development
Assistance 9C: Monthly Interest Rate Spreads, 2008 - 2009

3A: Annual Mean Global CO2 Concentration 10A: Real Value Added Growth for Agriculture,
Forestry & Fishing
3B: Budgetary Allocations to Land Resources Manage-
ment 2009/10 11A: Min ing & Quarrying Real Value Added
Growth Rate, 1999 - 2009
3C: Average Annual Temperature, 2000 - 2009
11B: Alumina Capacity Utilization, 2003 - 2009
3D: Average Annual Rainfall, 2000 - 2009
11C: Bauxite/Alumina and Fuel/Alumina Conver-
3E: Comparison of 30 Year Mean Rainfall sion Rate
3F: Drought Indices, 2009 11D: Share of Total Bauxite Used in the Production
3G: Number of Development Applications Received of Alumina
and Processed, 2009 11E: Jamaica’s Share of Global Alumina Produc-
3H: Types of Subdivision Applications, 2009 tion
4A: Performance of Jamaican Students in Mathematics 11F: Bauxite Capacity Utilization Rate
and Science, 2005 - 2009 11G: World Aluminium Capacity Utilization Rate
4B: Performance of Jamaican Students in Maths and 11H: Aluminium 12-Month Average Price on the
Science in the GSAT Examination by Gender, 2006 London Metal Exchange
- 2009
12A: Growth in Real Value Added for Manufacture
4C: Performance of Jamaican Candidates in Selected
Science Subjects in the CXC/CSEC May - June 12B: Value of Apparel Exports
Examinations, 2006 - 2009 13A: Loan Disbursement by Parish
5A: Change in Real GDP for the Jamaican Economy, 13B: Disbursements by Type of Economic Activity
2001 - 2009
14A: Real Value Added Growth Rates for the Con-
6A: Current Account Deficit, 1999 - 2009, struction Indusrty
(US$ Million)
14B: NHT Loan Activity Type
6B: Stock of Net International Reserves, US$ Million
15A: Average Spot Peak Price Movements for
(1999 - 2009)
Crude Oil in 2008 and 2009
6C: Growth in Exports and Imports (%), 1999 - 2009
15B: Non-Revenue Water as a Per Cent of Total
6D: Annual Remittance Inflows, 2003 - 2009 Production, 2000 - 2009
6E: Share or Remittance Inflows by Source Country 17A: Percentage Change in Real Value Added in
During 2009 Hotels, Restaurants and Clubs, 2000 - 2009
7A: Movements in Indicative Interest Rates, December 17B: Monthly Total Vistor Arrivals, 2007 - 2009
2008 - December 2009
17C: Monthly Percentage Change in Stopover Ar-
7B: Calendar Year to Date Inflation, 2008 and 2009 rivals, 2008 - 2009
7C: Contribution to Inflation, 2009 17D: Arrivals From Main Source Markets
8A: Fiscal Expenditure, Revenue and Surplus/Deficit 17E: Monthly Cruise Passenger Arrivals, 2007 -
for April - December 2000/01 - 2009/10 2009
8B: Budgetary Allocation FY 2009/10. 17F: Monthly Cruise Passengers to Montego Bay,
2007 - 2009
17G: Monthly Total Cruise Passenger Arrivals to Ocho 21A: Average Unemployment Rates, Jamaica
Rios, 2007 - 2009 (1980 - 2009)
17H: Total Stopover Expenditure, 2000 - 2009 22A: Enrolment by Educational Level (3-24 years),
2008/09
17I: Total Cruise Expenditure 2000 - 2009
22B: Capital Expenditure (Multilateral/Bilateral
18A: Change in Real Value Added for Recreational, Cul-
Programme), 2009
tural & Sporting Activities, 1999 - 2008
22C: Enrolment by Gender in Early Childhood,
18B: Recreational, Cultural & Sporting Activities Share
Primary and Secondary Level Schools, 2009
of Real Gross Domestic Product, 1998 - 2008
22D: Distribution of Teachers by Qualification,
18C: Stock of Loans & Advances to the Entertainment
Industry, 2005 - 2009 2009

19A: Real Value Added Growth of Wholesale & Retail 24A: Official Development Allocation for the
Trade; Repair and Installation of Machinery Indus- MNS, 2009
try, 2000 - 2009 24B: Percentage Distribution of Types of Imple-
19B: Complaints Received by the CAC by Category, ments Used in Murder, 2009
2009 24C: Motives for Committing Murder, 2009
19C: Share of Total Sales by Firms Filing GCT Returns 24D: Category of Road Users Killed in Traffic
in the Wholesale & Retail Trade: Repair and Instal- Accidents, 2009
lation of Machinery Industry, 2009
24E: Educational Level of New Admissions to
19D: Composition of Firms in WRTRIM, 2009 Adult Correctional Centres, 2009
20A: Reproductive Health Survey 1997, 2002, and 2008 24F: Occupational Status of New Admissions to
20B: Age Specific Fertility Rates, 1997, 2002 and 2008 Correctional Centres, 2009

20C: Population by Age and Sex, Census 1991 and Esti-

mates 2009
INDEX
production 11.1, 11.3
A Beverages & Tobacco 12.3
Abilities Foundation 25.12 Bilateral Cooperation 2.5
AES 15.3 Biological Diversity Resources 3.6
Age Dependency Ratio (ADR) 20.8, 20.9 BOJ 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.8, 9.1, 9.4, 9.6
Age groups 20.8 Broad Money 7.4
Agriculture Bureau of Standards, Jamaica 4.3, 13.4, 19.2, 19.4
export earnings 10.4 Bureau of Women’s Affairs (BWA) 25.12, 25.13
Financing 10.10 Building Societies 9.9
GDP 10.1 Building Youth for National Development see BY.ND
output 10.1 BY.ND 25.10
policies and programmes 10.2
production index 10.1
Alternative Energy Sources see AES
Alumina C
consumption 11.1 CAC 19.2, 19.3, 19.4, 19.8
earnings 11.4 Canadian International Development Agency 2.7
export 11.3 Capital and Financial Accounts 6.4
production 11.1, 11.2 Private Investment 6.4
Aluminium Official Investment 6.4
consumption 11.1, 11.6, 11.7 Caribbean Community see CARICOM
production 11.1, 11.6 Caribbean Development Bank see CDB
Amortization Payment 8.1, 8.3, 8.8 Caribbean Forum see CARIFORUM
Anti-crime measures 24.9 CARICOM 1.1, 1.5, 1.6, 6.2, 6.7, 19.2
Anti-Money Laundering 9.4 CARIFORUM 1.1, 1.5, 1.6, 2.7, 6.2
Apparel Industry 12.6 CDA 25.1, 25.5, 25.6, 25.7, 25.8
CDB 2.2, 2.4, 22.4, 22.8, 25.2, 25.5, 25.6, 25.7, 25.22
CHASE Fund 22.3
Child Development Agency see CDA
B Children
Balance of payments 6.1 at-risk 25.6
Banana in state care 25.6
export 10.5 Citrus
production 10.5 production 10.7
Bank of Jamaica see BOJ Cocoa
Banking System 7.3 export 10.9
Bauxite production 10.9
crude bauxite 11.1, 11.4 Coconut
earnings 11.4 Lethal yellowing 10.7
exports 11.4 production 10.7
Coffee Deportation 24.7
exports 10.5 Deportees 20.7, 20.8
production 10.5 Deposit-Taking Institutions 9.6
Commercial Banks 9.6, 9.9, 12.7 Development Financing 9.10
Commonwealth Citizens and Aliens 20.8 Development Options Ltd. 13.5, 13.6
Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation (CFTC) 2.8 DFID 2.1, 2.7
Communication Disbursements 2.2, 2.4, 2.5, 2.7
Information, Communication & Technology Project see ICT
licences for telecommunication services 16.7
policy framework 16.6
Post and Telecommunications Department (PTD)16.7
Community Colleges 22.20
Community Development 25.18 Doha Development Agenda 1.4
Construction Doha Development Round 1.1
policies & programmes 14.1
residential 14.4
non-Residential 14.4
inputs 14.3 E
Consumer Affairs Commission see CAC Early Childhood Development 25.6
Consumer Price Index 7.4, 7.5 Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) 1.1, 1.5, 1.6, 6.2
COPE Foundation Ltd 13.9 Education
Credit Unions 9.9 Early Childhood 22.6
Crime education transformation 22.4 - 6
major crimes 24.3 - 24.4 financing 22.1- 22.4
Crime Stop Programme 24.9 Post Secondary 22.19 - 22
Crude Birth Rate 20.2 Primary 22.8 - 22.10
Crude Death Rate 20.5 Regulatory Bodies 22.31
Cruise Passenger arrivals 17.1, 17.7, 17.11, 17.12 Secondary 22.10- 22.13
Culture 25.24 Special 22.13
Current Account 6.3 Tertiary 22.22 - 22.31
Current Transfers 6.4 Education Support Programme and Services 22.14 - 19
CUSO 2.5 E-Government 4.8, 4.10
Elderly 20.8
ELE 21.13
Electronic Labour Exchange see (ELE)
E-Learning Project 4.9, 22.1, 22.15
D Electricity
Debt average consumption and average charges 15.11
external 8.9 disposal & revenue 15.10
domestic 8.9 generation 15.8
Management strategy 8.1, 8.4 heat-rate, fuel consumption and fuel cost 15.10
stock 8.9 Emerging Market & Developing Countries 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.8
Department for International Development see (DFID) Emigration 20.6 - 20.7
Dependent Elderly 20.1, 20.8 Employment 19.8, 21.3
age and sex 21.4 FIA-Licensees 9.7
status 21.4 Financial Institutions Act (FIA) -Licensees
full-time and part time 21.6 Financial Services Commission (FSC) 9.1, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4
industry 21.4 First Union Financial Company Limited see FUFC
occupational group 21.6 Fiscal
Energy efficiency 15.4 deficit 5.2, 8.1, 8.7, 8.8
Energy Sector expenditure 8.3
alternative energy sources 15.3 performance 8.7
domestic market 15.5 policy 8.2
-average billing prices 15.5 revenue 8.3
-consumption 15.8 Fishing 10.9
-Ethanol production 15.7 Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) 2.8
-imports 15.6 Food Processing 12.3
-production 15.5 Foreign Exchange Market 6.8
-Petrojam sales 15.7 FTC 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, 19.8
international oil market 15.5 FUFC 13.9
policy and progammes 15.1 Funds Under Management 9.10
Entertainment Functional Classification of Expenditure 8.5
motion picture & projections 18.3
performance 18.2
policies & programmes 18.1
sporting and other recreational activities 18.4- 18.6 G
theatrical producers & entertainment service 18.3 GDP
E-readiness 4.7 industry performance 5.4 - 5.6
EU 2.4 Geographic Distribution 20.9
European Union see EU Geographic Information System see GIS
Exchange Rates 6.8 GIS 3.16, 3.17, 3.18, 3.19
EX-IM Bank 13.8 Gross Domestic Product see GDP
Expenditure
capital 8.3
non-debt 8.4
recurrent 8.3, 8.7 H
Exports Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) 4.3,
13.3, 13.4
non-traditional export 6.5
Health
traditional export 6.5
ambulatory Care 23.4
Extradition 24.7
financing 23.1
HIV/AIDS 23.3, 23.6, 23.8, 23.10, 23.11
in-patient care 23.4
F
performance 23.1 - 23.8
Fair Trading Commission see FTC
pharmacy services 23.7
Fertility 20.2
Support Care Programmes 23.5
crude birth rate 20.2
Support Service 23.7
general fertility rate 20.2
Health Issues by Age Groups 23.8 - 23.9
total fertility rate 20.2
HEART Trust/NTA 22.5, 22.17, 22.19, 22.20, 22.21, 22.22, 22.28 Interest Rate Spread 9.9
Housing Insurance Companies
completions 14.4 general 9.10
starts 14.4 life 9.10
Human Employment and Resource Training Trust /National ISCF 24.3, 24.7, 24.10
Training Agency see HEART Trust/NTA
Island Special Constabulary Force see ISCF
Hurricane Dean 10.1, 11.1

J
I
Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association 18.6
ICT 2.8, 4.1, 4.3, 4.8, 4.9, 4.10, 16.8, 22.1, 22.2, 22.15, 22.16,
22.18, 22.21, 24.10 Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) 13.1,
13.2, 13.9, 25.10
IDB 2.4, 2.7, 2.10, 22.4, 22.9, 25.4, 25.10
Jamaica Constabulary Force see JCF
Immigration 20.7
Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities 25.1, 25.11,
returning residents 20.7 25.12
deportees 20.7 Jamaica Co-operative Credit Union League Ltd. 13.2
Imports 6.7 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) 25.2,
25.4, 25.24
Industrial Minerals
Jamaica Defence Force see JDF
gypsum 11.7
Jamaica Deposit Insurance Corporation see JDIC
sand/gravel 11.8
Jamaica Diaspora 20.10
Industry Performance
Jamaica Mortgage Bank 14.2, 14.3, 14.6
agriculture 5.1, 5.4, 10.1 - 10.10
Jamaica National Small Business Loan Limited 13.1,13.2,
construction 5.5, 14.1 - 14.8 13.6, 13.7
energy, electricity and water 5.5, 15.1 - 15.14 Jamaica Netball Association 18.6
finance & insurance services 5.6, 9.1 - 9.12 Jamaica Public Service Company see JPSCo
manufacture 5.5, 12.1 - 12.7 Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) 22.3, 25.1, 25.21,
mining and quarrying 5.1, 5.5, 11.1 - 11.10 25.22
producers of government services 5.6 Jamaica Stock Exchange see JSE
transport, storage and communication 5.1, 5.5, 16.1 - 16.8 Jamaica Tourist Board see JTB
wholesale & retail trade 5.4, 19.1 - 19.8 Jamaica Youth Ambassador Programme 25.9
Inflation 1.3, 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.9 JAMVAT 25.9
average annual 1.3, 7.4 Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) 2.6
core 7.1 Japan Overseas Co-operation Volunteers (JOCV) 2.7
Information and Communication Technology see ICT JCF 24.1, 24.2, 24.3, 24.10, 24.11, 24.13, 24.24
Innovation 4.9 JDF 24.1, 24.2, 24.13, 24.14
Inter-American Development Bank see IDB JDIC 9.5
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) 2.9 JPSCo 15.1, 15.8, 15.9, 15.10, 15.11, 15.14
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development - The JSE 9.11
World Bank 2.5 JTB 17.3, 17.4, 17.6
International Development Partners (IDP) 2.3, 2.10 Justice 24.18 - 24.22
International Financial Markets
capital flows 1.7
International Migration 20.5
Interest Rates
K financing 13.5
Kingston Restoration Company (KRC) 25.23 policy and programmes 13.1
performance13.5
business services 13.2
MicroFin Fund 13.6
L Micro Investment Development Agency see MIDA
Labour Force 21.2 - 21.3 MIDA 13.5, 13.6
Labour Management Relations 21.11 Mining & Quarrying
dispute resolution - conciliation and arbitration 21.12 domestic production 11.2
industrial disputes and work stoppages 21.11 employment 11.2
occupational safety and health 21.12 export 11.3
representational rights 21.11 international environment 11.6
Labour Market Information 21.13 policies & programmes 11.1
Electronic Labour Exchange see ELE Ministry of Water and Housing (MWH)14.2
Labour Market Information System see LMIS Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) 14.1
Labour Maket Reform 21.10 Monetary Base 7.1, 7.3
Labour Migration 21.6 Monetary policy 7.1,7.2, 7.3
overseas employment programme 21.6 - 21.7 Money supply 7.3
work permits 21.7- 21.10 Mortality 20.5
Legislative Development 9.1 - 9.4 crude death rate 20.5
Lending Agency Multilateral Financial Institutions (MFIs) 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.6,
2.10
retail 13.6
Multilateral Technical Corporation (MTC) 2.1, 2.2, 2.10
LMIS 21.13
Local Government Reform 25.23

N
Narrow Money (M1) 7.4
National Centre for Youth Development 25.6
M
National Council for Senior Citizens 25.10, 25.11
Management Institute of National Development (MIND) 22.32,
22.33 National Council on Education 22.5, 22.19
Manufacture Sector National Development Plan 3.1, 3.3, 4.3, 6.1, 10.2, 15.1,
17.1,20.14, 25.1
employment 12.6
National Family Planning Board see NFPB
export 12.5
National Housing Trust see NHT
financing 12.7
National Insurance Fund 25.17
investment 12.2
National Insurance Scheme (NIS) 25.17
performance 12.3
National Minerals Policy 11.1
policy and programmes 12.1
National Quality Awards 4.19
Medium Term Socio-Economic Policy Framework 2.10
National Security and Justice
Merchandise Exports
financing 24.1
non-traditional exports 6.5
National Secondary Students Council 25.9
traditional exports 6.5
National Youth Policy 25.8
Merchandise imports 6.7
National Youth Service see NYS
Micro and Small Business
National Water Commission see NWC
Natural and Man-Made Hazards 3.14 Poor Relief
Natural Increase 20.1 indoor 25.16
NCHIP 14.5 indigent housing programme 25.17
NCU 22.4, 22.30 outdoor 25.16
NDA 7.3 Population Growth 20.2
Net Domestic Assets see NDA Population Structure 20.8
Net External Movements 20.2 elderly 20.8
Net Flows 2.3 working age 20.8
Net Foreign Assets 7.3 Post Secondary Education
Net International Reserves see NIR Community Colleges 22.20
NFPB 20.2, 20.3 Human Employment and Resource Training Trust/National
Training Agency see HEART Trust/NTA
NHT 14.3, 14.4, 14.6
PPCA 24.23
NIR 6.4, 7.1, 7.2
Private Tertiary Institutions 22.30 - 22.31
Non-metallic Minerals 12.3
Programme of Advancement through Health & Education
Northern Caribbean University see NCU see PATH
Northern Coastal Highway Improvement see NCHIP Public Sector Settlements 21.10
NWC 14.7
NYS 25.3, 22.4, 25.9, 25.10

Q
Quasi Money 7.4
O
OAS 2.9
Office of Utilities Regulation see OUR
Oil and Gas Exploration 15.14 R
OPEC 15.1, 15.5, 15.14 Refinery upgrade 15.13
Open Market Operation Instrument 7.3, 7.8 Reform of Secondary Education Project- Phase II 22.14
Organization of American States see OAS Resources
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries see OPEC Biodiversity 3.8
OUR 15.3 Coastal and Marine 3.9
Own Account Worker (sole trader) Category 13.1 Forestry 3.9
Freshwater 3.10
Land 3.11
Retail Lending Agency 13.6
P JN small Business Limited see JNSBL
PAHO 2.9 Returning Residents 20.7
Pan American Health Organization see PAHO
Pan Caribbean Financial Services Limited (PCFSL)
PATH 22.17, 22.19, 25.1, 25.3, 25.15, 25.17, 25.24
PCFSL 13.6 S
Pension Act 9.2 Salary Survey 21.10
Petroleum Products 12.3 minimum wage 21.11
Pharmacy Service 23.7 Science and Technology
Police Public Complaints Authority see PPCA agriculture 4.5 - 4.7
education 4.3 T
energy 4.7 Teacher Training Institutions 22.28 - 22.9
financing 4.3 TFR 20.2
health 4.7 Total Fertility Rate see TFR
Innovation 4.9 Tourism
policy framework 4.3 average length of stay 17.5, 17.6, 17.7
Research & Development 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.5 arrivals 17.1, 17.5, 17.6, 17.7, 17.9, 17.10, 17.11
Training popularization 4.5 attractions 17.1,17.3
Scientific Research Council see SRC cruise passengers 17.1, 17.7, 17.11, 17.12
Senior Citizens 25.10 employment 17.9
Services Sud-Account 6.4 hotels and restaurants 17.1, 17.9, 17.12
Ship calls 17.7 incentives 17.3
SLB 22.4 investment 17.9
Social Development Commission (SDC) 25.18, 25.19 master plan 17.1
Social Insurance 25.17 policies and programmes 17.1
Social Protection 25.14 - 25.18 ship calls 17.7
Social Safety Net Reform Programme (SSN) 25.14 stopover arrivals 17.5, 17.6, 17.7
Spatial Data management 3.16 visitor expenditure 17.8
Sports Development Foundation 18.4 Tourism Product Development Company see TPDCo.
SRC 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 13.2 TPDCo. 17.3, 17.4
Stopover arrivals 17.5, 17.6, 17.7 Trade deficit 6.5
Storage 16.6 Trade Policy 6.1
Students Loan Bureau see SLB Trade Union
Sugar BITU 21.12
earnings 10.5 NWU 21.11, 21.12
exports 10.4 UAW U 21.11, 21.12
Industry policy 10.3 Trafficking in Person 24.11
production 10.4 Traffic Accidents 24.9
Sustainable Development Transportation
biological diversity resources 3.8 air 16.4 - 16.6
chemical management 3.2 - 3.3 aerodromes 16.6
climate change 3.1 - 3.2, 3.8 infrastructure development 16.1- 16.2
coastal and marine resources 3.9 land 16.2 - 16.3
fresh water resources 3.10 licences 16.3
financing 3.5 - 3.6 maritime 16.3 - 16.4
forestry resources 3.0 policy framework 16.1
Global Green Deal 3.2 public buses 16.2 - 16.3
land resources 3.11 rail 16.3
National Spatial Plan 3.4 real value added 16.1
natural and man-made hazards 3.14 - 3.16 Traffic Management 16.2
waste management 3.10 Treasury Bill (T-Bill) 7.3
planning and policy 3.4
spatial data management 3.16
U V
UDC 14.4, Vital Statistics Commission see VSC
UK 2.1, 2.7, 20.6, 20.7 VSC 20.11
Unemployment 1.3, 21.6
Rate 21.6
UNDP 2.10
UNFPA 2.10, 20.3, 20.11, 20.12, 20.14, 20.15 W
UNICEF 2.9, 20.14, 25.4, 25.5, 25.6, 25.23 Water
United Kingdom see UK connections 15.13
United Nations Children’s Fund see UNICEF consumption 15.12
United Nations Development Programme see UNDP policies and programmes 15.11
United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization production 15.11
(UNESCO) 2.9
projects 15.11
United Nations Population Fund see UNFPA
revenue 15.13
United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
2.7 supplies 15.12

United States of America see USA Waste Management 3.10

University and Allied Workers’ Union see UAWU Wholesale & Retail Trade

University of Technology see UTech performance 19.5

University of the West Indies see UWI policies and programmes 19.1

Urban Development Corporation see UDC Working Age 20.8

Urbanization 20.9 World Output 1.1

US Peace Corps 2.8 World Trade 1.2

USA 2.7, 20.6, 20.7 World Trade Organization see WTO

UTech 22.4, 22.27 - 22.8 WTO 1.1, 1.4, 1.6

Utility Regulation 15.12, 16.8 WTO Dispute Settlement Body see DSB

UWI 22.4, 22.23 - 22.27

Y
Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) 25.9, 25.10
Youth
Youth Support Groups 25.10
Building Youth for National Development see BY.ND