COMMISSIONS & COMMITTEES REPORTS FROM THE
150 POLICY/VISION COMMISSION REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY Membership: Anthony Bogues (Chair) Maureen Denton Maziiki Thame Damion Gordon Dexroy Martin Maureen Webber Peter Bunting Xavier Malcolm Camillo Thame ( resigned from the Commission ) Disraeli Hutton Tricia Jackson Allan Bernard Ethnie Miller Simpson Aldin Beinfantie Beverley Jobson Grant . Lorenzo Ellis. Nickeshia Lindsay ( was appointed secretary but because of travel and job change was not able to act for the political year ) From December 2022- July 2023 , the commission held regular monthly meetings and in some cases when necessary meet twice monthly . In December 2022 , the commission submitted a work plan for the political year . The details of this plan included : • The simplification of the full report of the Principles and Objectives into a form which could be distributed to constituencies. The creation of a brochure which simplified the agreed on Principles and Objectives • Working with the Political Education Commission on the creating modules for political education work . • Deploying aspects of the Principles and Objectives into various social media formats • Pivoting from only elaborating of the party’s Principles and Objectives to begin detailed policy work. . The work program noted that the Commission should pivot from “ where we stand “ to “ what will we do .” Work accomplished to date: • The Commission distilled the Principles and Objectives into a 10 point program document which was taken to the RMC in May 2023. (appendix 1. Where We stand) Guided by volunteers the document was discussed and agreed on . There were three areas of concern. First the debates pointed to the fact that there needed to be more debate and discussion in the party about the meaning of the phrase democratic/ progressive left . At the September 2022 annual conference there was agreement that the NEC should debate this matter and come back to the party with a decision . This has not yet happened. Secondly there was demand from these meetings that the document needed to spell out more clearly the issue of land as well as reparative justice . in some of the regions there was the demand that the documents might even be made simpler with more graphics. Finally many of the regions noted that the larger document which was presented to the July 2022 NEC and the September annual conference needed to edited and made available to all party members. This needs to be done and should be available at annual conference of 2023. • The commission worked with a land / housing
151 committee to develop a preliminary plan around land and housing . This document was recently submitted to the Party President . • Members of the Commission participated in two retreats of the Shadow cabinet . In the second retreat the Commission made a presentation on – Transformation. Making a distinction between reform and social and economic transformation , the presentation noted in summary that transformation was about changing the power relations in a society ; it was about creating conditions of equality . While reforms were necessary and needed the point was made that the PNP’s mission was about transforming the country , Central to transformation was economics . In that regard the party had to transform the current low wage economy which presently dominates the structures of our economy as well as broadening the economic ownership of the country. Central to any project of transformation is also the deepening of the nation’s democracy . • During the budget debate period , the Commission had two full meetings with two spokespersons to discuss their budget presentations – Cdes Julian Robinson and Anthony Hylton . In these meetings different members of the commission produced working documents which were inputs into the various speeches. In particular documents were produced on the ‘ concept of the working poor “ as well as the structure of the low wage economy . Additionally individual members of the Commission worked with the Party President and Cde Denise Daley on their budget presentations. In all of these instances the focus was not only on ideological matters but how policies could be created from the party’s ideological frame work. • The Commission has also began to work with the Constitutional Committee and internally has started a debate and discussion about the changes to the constitution which it will submit to the party for discussion and debate . • The Commission has also began working on an integrated policy frame work. This is an attempt to create a framework in which transformation can occur not sector by sector but in an integrated way working through social , political and economic structures. This work will continue and will be ready for annual conference. • With support from the Party Leader the commission will engage over the next few months both spokespersons and councilors in a series of meetings to hammer out the necessary changes required for local government that would feed into the local government election campaign. • During the course of the next political year the commission is proposing a Caribbean conference on debt and development . Within the Caribbean debt is proving to be a major obstacle to development . Barbados has created the Bridge Town Initiative which should be supported, but following both our mission as the leading progressive left party in the Anglophone Caribbean and our internationalism which has always stood for a more just global economic order , the party will hosts a conference on debt and development . Anthony Bogues July 15 , 2023.
152 The Human Rights Commission REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY 1. As a core concept the People`s National Party is committed to the recognition of the rights of all Jamaican at home and or in the diaspora. Humans Rights are those core concepts that are inalienable those rights that can never be do away with as they are so fundamental to our existence. In the recognitions of those right there are several project and programs that the Human Right Committee arms of the People national Party took place in over the last quarter. We seek herein to highlight some of those programs that we partook in: LLUIDASVALE HOUSING PROJECT 2. The concerns and complaints of Jamaicans were many whenever the question of housing and land are being discussed. In October of 2022 some sixty (60) residents of the Lluidas Vale Community in the parish of Saint Catherine were served with Notices to Quit and vacate their home in one month. The residents in part were living in their homes for upwards of (60) years over the limitation period notwithstanding the state agency were given instruction to evict them. The Human Right Committee gave strict instruction to its team of Attorney to protect the right of the people. 3. After vigorous litigation the Supreme Court of Jamaica granted an Interim Injunction to protect the citizen from being evicted. The Attorneys attached to the Human Rights arms of the PNP also were able to reach a conclusion with the Commissioner or lands to have the rights of the Citizens recognized and have them recognized as the proper paper title owners. This move, the committee is indeed proud of and look forward to helping Jamaicans that are in similar positions to regularise there living situation with a view to home ownership for all Jamaicas. CLIFFTON HOUSING PROJECT 4. The People`s National Party recognizes that housing is a major concern for many Jamaican and is fully committed to the realization of this fundamental Right. This basic right as outline in the Constitution continues to be abridged by members of the ruling Government as we saw in October of 2022, where orders were given by the leader of the JLP Government to have some 12 homes demolished in areas of the Bernard Lodge Community. As a result of the demolition there was some approximate thirty (30) million in damages and some 12 families were left homeless and displaced. 5. In acknowledging the right of the People, the People National Party with the instruction of our Comrade leader petitioned the Supreme Court of Jamaica with a Civil Claim to have the parties compensated for the damages that they sustained and to have declarations made that the leader of the government acted in contravention of the Right of the people. It is ordinarily said that the wheels of Justice turns slowly and in this case it is no different- as the matter is ongoing we can only throw our support behind the affected members of the community and also the team of lawyers currently assigned to the matter.
153 MAROON LAND DISPUTE 6. The Matters concerning the Maroon people of Accompong is also a matter that the Human Rights Committee has taken a keen interest in. The concern of the maroon people is in relation to land that has been their’s for generations is being striped away by the government to be used for commercial mining and the protection of the court is needed in this respect. The litigation of this matter is ongoing and as such whatsoever support that can be generated in this respect for the maroon people is welcome and appreciated. A case such as this highlights the need to unify Jamaica and recognise the right of all while respecting Human rights. STATE OF EMERGENCY 7. The Right to liberty i.e. is the freedom to move is a fundamental Human Right and recognition of same is needed for the functioning of any country that is aimed at attaining developed status. The sitting JLP government continues to act in contravention of this right. In that its continues to use the special powers of State of emergency as a crime fighting tool. The we here at the Human Rights Committee strongly opposes. 8. We have before us the case of Everton Douglas and other before the Court of appeal. The matter of Mr. Douglas and the other complaints were that they were unlawfully detained by member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force under an illegal zone of special operation. The High Court panel heard submissions from members of the committee for several day and now the panel is out for deliberation. As we await the judgement on this matters we continues to assist each and every Jamaican in the recognition of their right to freedom of movement. 9. It is important to understand that these declarations are needed by the court, as this is what will pave the path for future generation and will serve to guide future governments as to the lengths that right run to and if these right can be limited and if they are limited to what extent can those limitation be justified in a free and democratic society. RECOMMENDATIONS AND WAY FORWARD 10. The Human Right Commission is committed now more than ever to its core mandates of protection of rights for all Jamaicans irrespective of what marginalized group they may fall apart of. To do this however there needs to be greater focus placed on recruitment on the part of the commission and also a great push in public education. 11. It is the intention of the Chair to have at a minimum a single town hall or community meeting in the major cities where the focus will be on taking the concerns of Jamaicans as it relates to Human Right violations and formulating a proper system to have these concerns ventilated n the proper medium. 12. There will be a grater push from the committee to utilize the various spaces that are available for the promulgation of Human Rights. The world is in our hands and it’s the aim to have rights of these broadcasted on all platforms so each and every Jamaican can know what they rights are and know what ventures are present for them to ventilate these rights of they are so abridged. 13. We invite recommendations from all parties who seek to better to range of the Commission, such a recommendation can be provided to the commissions email address. 14. There remains the most pivotal moment in Jamaica the anticipated referendum and the the ongoing Constitutional redrafting. The unease among minorities regarding recognition of rights cannot be . We are therefore in need of mass public education Isat Buchanan Human Rights Chairman
154 1. MEMBERSHIP Membership of the Internal Affairs Committee formed under the Rules of the Party is shown in Table “A”. 2. TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) include, To: a) Assist the Party in mediation and in its application of the Code of Conduct and Constitution. b) Report to The Executive quarterly and the 2-day NEC and Annual Conference c) Deliberate on Matters brought to its attention or any matter the IAC feels is in its scope to address. d) Make recommendation to the Disciplinary Committee. e) Conduct Conflict Resolutions. f) Develop a list of Sanctions. g) Have a list of Mediators at the disposal of the Commission to deal with issues arising. INTERNAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION (IAC) REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY
155 3. MEETINGS Meetings are mostly held on “demand” and in response to matters referred. As much as was feasible, the Commission had to use social media, and Telephone platforms. A provisional list of Mediators has been established. 4. MATTERS URGENTLY ADDRESSED - included complaints laid by: a) Cde. Nickesha Burchell- Region III b) Cde. Lawrence Rowe – Region III c) Cde. Danishka Williams – Region III - Still a work in progress as the Commission would prefer a solution through mediation. d) Cde. Peta Gay Ferguson – Region III - Recently received and is now tabled. e) Cde Arnaldo Brown - Region III - Cde. Brown engaged the Chairman of the Commission in a search for solutions, recognising that the Executive had deliberated on his matter, and took a negative position. 5. OUTLOOK The Commission will accelerate its work to clear any unresolved matter, but is also of the view now, that as we draw closer to the election period, all efforts should be made toward mediation, and the prevention of matters getting into the public sphere. As we continue to stabilize and flesh out the Commission, more members will be included so as to satisfy, as best as can be, the Requirements of the TOR. The IAC will continue recruitment of Mediators and the setting up of Mediation-pools which will broaden its footprint Regionally, to pre-empt, and otherwise to better address issues as they arise. However, the Commission is looking forward with great anticipation to the implementation of the recommendations coming from the Minott Committee Report, of which the Chairman of the IAC was a member, and also Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Discipline. This Report will significantly strengthen the Commission and the Disciplinary Committee. 6. CONCLUSION The IAC offers it’s thanks to the Secretariat, the many Volunteers, Members, as well as the Disciplinary Committee and all other participants, for their support. Cde Dr. Fenton Ferguson Chairman.
156 INTRODUCTION This Report covering the period June 2022 to July 2023 is being presented at a crucial time of severe challenges to international relations and diplomacy, for example, the continuation of the Russian/Ukraine conflict which has created severe supply chain challenges mainly affecting developing countries; the political, economic and social stability in Haiti; the Mediterranean migrant crisis; and the continued impact of climate change. A progressive party like the People’s National Party in Opposition has to tread carefully while we maintain our core traditions of friendship, solidarity and global peace. Nevertheless, under the leadership of Co-Chairs Cdes Horace Dalley and Dahlia WalkerHuntington, significant activities were accomplished. MEMBERSHIP Apart from the two Co-Chairs, membership of the Commission is comprised of the following persons appointed by the Secretariat: Cdes Arnaldo Brown, Everton Hannam, Aloun Assamba, Charles Ganga Singh, Odell Marsh, Nareisha Murray-Graham, ShariAnn Henry, Cordinal Beckford, Christopher Henry, Dexroy Martin, Senator Janice Allen and Ryan Keating; Regional Representatives Cdes Michael Godfrey, Jacqueline O’Gilvie, Vickeshia Box and Stanley Redwood; Cdes Joyce Perry-Jacobs, Demoye Whitely, Bancroft Stanley, Nadine Spence representing the PNP Women’s Movement, PNPYO, National Worker’s Union and the Patriots, respectively; Overseas Affiliate members are Cdes Dr. Olivia Rose Esperance, PNP UK and Raymond Price, North American Representative. Cde Garth Rose from the Diaspora is also a Member and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Cde Lisa Hanna serves as an ex-officio member. Sadly, not all members participated during the year under review. TERMS OF REFERENCE The Commission is responsible for ensuring that the PNP maintains a progressive foreign policy outlook while building and expanding relationships in the Diaspora and the International community, through cooperation with traditional, new and Affiliate partners, The Commission is required to report to the Party Executive quarterly, to the July NEC and the Annual Conference. MEETINGS During the period, the Commission held four (4) face-to-face/Zoom meetings. There is also an active WhatsApp group which keeps members apprised of relevant issues on a timely basis. ASSIGNMENT OF GEO-POLITI CAL REGIONS Members assigned Geo-Political responsibility are as follows: Co-Chair Comrade Dahlia Walker- Huntington, assisted by Cde Garth Rose – Diaspora and North American Political Affairs; Comrades Everton Hannam with support from Dexroy Martin and Horace Dalley consulting – International Organizations; Charles Ganga Singh assisted by Ryan Keating – Caribbean Affairs; Stanley Bancroft assisted by Shari-Ann Henry and Dexroy Martin – Latin America; Christopher Henry supported by Cordinal Beckford and Dr. Olivia Rose Esperance – Europe; Odell Marsh – Africa and the INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND DIASPORA COMMMISSION REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY
157 Middle East. Comrade Joyce Perry-Jacobs serves as Secretary. DIASPORA ACTIVITIES July 13-22, 2022 the IADC Co-Chair, Dahlia WalkerHuntington (DWH) coordinated a United States Diaspora Tour and accompanied the Leader of the Opposition Mark J. Golding, MP and a delegation to Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Washington, DC and New York. Leader Golding and the delegation met with Jamaicans in private stakeholder meetings that covered business, law and justice, education, security and policing, and medical and non-governmental organizations. Pursuant to the stakeholder meetings follow up is underway in the preparation of policy papers in various areas for presentation to the Leader in the interest of all Jamaicans. The Diaspora Tour also engaged Jamaicans of all walks of life in the celebration of Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence and the Leader delivered milestone lectures and presentations at every stop. These public events were marketed to Jamaicans and Caribbean nationals, and showcased the Leader’s breath and wide-ranging knowledge of issues concerning Jamaica and her Diaspora, the Caribbean and the world. The delegation also met with Party stalwarts in Florida, Georgia and New York including members of overseas Affiliates and Groups. In September, 2022, the IADC Co-Chair registered with the United States Department of Justice as a Foreign Agent in compliance with the US Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA). DWH is a dual citizen, and as an America citizen who advocates on behalf of a foreign political party in the US, among other activities, she is required to submit semiannual reports that coincide with her initial registration. She is also required to submit any informational materials distributed to two or more US citizens on behalf of the PNP to the FARA Unit within 48 hours and must issue a disclaimer with all materials distributed. Likewise, video materials distributed by DWH must be sent to the FARA Unit at the Department of Justice on a thumb drive within 48 hours of dissemination to two or more US citizens. In the semiannual reports DWH must list all meetings and activities conducted on behalf of the PNP (not the contents) and also list all expenses incurred and any reimbursements received. October 4-8, 2022 the Co-Chair coordinated and accompanied the Leader of the Opposition, Mark J. Golding, MP on a second Diaspora Tour of the United Kingdom visiting Jamaicans in London and Birmingham. Public forums were held with Jamaicans in Southwark, London; and Birmingham. The Delegation also met with elected officials in both cities and toured several businesses that were owned and operated by Jamaicans. The PNP-UK drafted and presented Diaspora Policies at the Birmingham meeting and after public discussions on the feasibility of the positions, the suggestions deemed viable have been repackaged and will be submitted along with the policy papers out of the United States to the Party’s Executive and consequently to the NEC. During both Diaspora Tours of 2022, the Party engaged with thousands of Jamaicans of all walks of life and the enthusiasm with which the Leader of the Opposition and delegations were met created a sensation on social media in Jamaica and the Diaspora. The Party created a Diaspora holiday message from the Leader that was widely disseminated and warmly received. After the Resolution to offer direct membership to members of the Diaspora was approved at Conference 2022, the IADC Co-Chair has held soundings with members of the Diaspora and was a member of the Diaspora Membership Committee chaired by Norman Minot, Esq. After several meetings of the Committee and a sub-committee, a draft proposal to designate the Diaspora a Region within the PNP and the parameters for Diaspora direct membership is being submitted to
158 the Executive and NEC at the July two-day NEC. The Co-Chair attended the IADC’s Diplomatic Engagement at the Pegasus Hotel March, 2023 that saw presentations from various members of the Party’s Executive with a main address from the Party Leader. A period of questions and answers ensued at which the Party Leader excelled with his knowledge of international affairs. Communications: A database of Jamaicans overseas will be presented to the Party’s Secretariat before Conference 2023 Diaspora Newsletter – first edition August 2023 JA Constitutional Revision: The Co-Chair after discussions with members of the Diaspora submitted an outline of Diaspora thoughts on Jamaica’s Constitutional Revision process to the Party. Members of the Diaspora were disappointed that the government did not include any member of the Diaspora on the Constitutional Revision Committee as the removal of the King of England as the head of state of Jamaica would have significant impact on Jamaicans living overseas. Supporters of the PNP living in the Diaspora asked the PNP to support the following: 1. Removal of the King as head of state - Jamaica as a Republic. 2. Allowance for two members of the Diaspora to be appointed to the Senate (one from each party) 3. Removal of commonwealth citizenship trumping Jamaican birthright - permitting a member of the Jamaican US Diaspora (and all non-commonwealth countries) to be eligible for a constitutional office 4. The CCJ as the final court of justice for Jamaicans - no more Privy Council 5 Fixed election dates for both LG and General elections 6. Provision for the impeachment of public officials The Co-Chair consulted regularly with the Party’s two delegates on the Constitutional Revision Committee regarding issues of concern to the Diaspora to ensure their concerns were being heard on the Committee. The Co-Chair assisted with messaging on Diaspora and international issues including, Flooding in Florida in April, Diaspora Day (June 16), migration trends out of Jamaica to the United States and the Caribbean, concerns over the Integrity Commission and the SSL crisis and consulted with the Party Leader and other members of the Executive on several US geopolitical issues vis a vis Jamaica. Additionally, the Diaspora was kept informed on the Party’s position on national issues. UNITED STATES Economy: Inflation was significantly reduced to 3.1% in June in the United States from a peak of 9.1% in June, 2022. However, prices on many items remained stubbornly high. The Federal Reserve Bank raised interest rates 10 consecutive times in an attempt to curb inflation, but paused the rate hikes in June, 2023. Interest rate stands at 5.00 – 5.25% June, 2023 and it is believed that the Feds will raise rates to 5.63% by the end of 2023. Unemployment remained below four percent. Mortgage interest rates as of the end of June 2023 is approximately 6.95%. Housing sales are weak because of the high mortgage rates, however cost of rent continues to climb pricing several people out of certain markets and states. Remittances: In 2022 US$3.44 billion in remittances flowed to Jamaica, in 2021 it was US$3.45 billion. “For the January to February 2023 period, remittance inflows amounted to US$495.9 million. The largest source
159 of remittance flows to Jamaica in February 2023 continued to be the United States, which accounted for 71.7 per cent of total inflows, up from 70.8 per cent recorded for February 2022.” Climate Change: The US continued to experience several “100 year” floods in America as a result of a changing climate. In Fort Lauderdale, Florida in April 2023 the area received 25.6 inches of rain in 12 hours. This resulted in unprecedented flooding in the area, affecting numerous Jamaicans and the closure of the Ft. Lauderdale airport for two days. The PNP issued an audio and written statement in support of all the affected especially the Jamaicans who call South Florida home. In July, 2023 several continuous days of over 100 degrees “feels like” temperature was experienced in the south and southwest of the United States. Unprecedented rain fell in the northeast causing flooding in Vermont and Rockland County, New York. Gun Violence 437 Mass Shootings in America as of July 14, 2023. Mass shooting – more than four people are shot. The gun lobby and elected officials who support them continue to fight any attempts to limit gun ownership citing to the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution. US China Relations US China relations continues to be tenuous with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellin and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken both visiting China in attempts to heal diplomatic rifts between both countries. US Cuba Relations Slight softening of US – Cuba relations came earlier this year under the Biden administration after regression under the previous Trump administration. The Biden administration has seen to more cultural exchanges, diplomatic meetings and an increase in the staff at the US Embassy in Havana. The Cuban Embargo continues despite pleas to end it. In March, 2023 a bi-partisan bill was introduced to end the Embargo – supported by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) US Russia Relations – War in Ukraine The US continues its support of the Ukrainian government and people in the war against Russia by providing funding and arms to the country. The latest most controversial move is to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine in July, 2023 despite them being banned by some 100 countries. This has caused tremendous concerns among US allies. The bombs are not illegal in the US, Ukraine and Russia. They are controversial because they explode before hitting their targets and scatter over a wider area opening the possibility of hitting unintended targets. NATO President Biden attended the NATO meeting in Lithuania. The Alliance agreed to expand by adding Finland and by agreeing to add Sweden. Ukraine wanted to be given the greenlight for NATO membership but President Biden publicly said while he agrees to the country being added, he wanted to wait until the war with Russia is over. He specifically pointed to the all for one premise of NATO that a strike against one is a strike against all and that in the middle of a conflict this would draw the United States and NATO into the war with Russia. Caribbean Summit US-Caribbean Leaders’ Summit took place in the Bahamas on June 8, 2023. The US delegation was led by Vice President Kamala Harris and made her the highest-ranking US official to visit the Bahamas since its independence. The Vice President and 15 Caribbean leaders met and the results were: New Initiatives to Strengthen U.S.-Caribbean Partnerships
160 • A $20 million-dollar investment in the “Caribbean Climate Investment Program,” which will mobilize the private sector to deploy new technologies to help climate adaptation. • A $15 million-dollar investment to support disaster risk reduction and emergency response efforts. • The creation of a new position at the DOJ: the Coordinator for Caribbean Firearms Prosecutions, which will increase information sharing as traffickers are prosecuted. • The start of the process to establish two new embassies and additional diplomatic support presence in the Eastern Caribbean. • More than $50 million in new humanitarian aid related to Haiti. Vice President Harris also traveled to Africa in April, 2023 and visited Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia. Immigration: The Biden administration saw a rapid rise in persons crossing the Mexican – US Border in early 2023 and an unprecedented increase was expected after the end of Title 42. This provision enforced under the Trump Administration allowed the US to prevent persons from entering the United States to seek Asylum due to the Covid19 Pandemic. As a result of lawsuits and rulings, Title 42 ended May 12, 2023. This reinstated the process of Expedited Removal wherein someone (except from five countries listed below) who presents at the border undergoes a Credible Fear interview and if they are found to be eligible for Asylum, they are released into the United States with a Notice to Appear for a hearing. The increase in persons at the border did not materialize and in fact the numbers of persons presenting themselves for admission at the US Broder decreased. This was due to the implementation of procedures for persons from Haiti, Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua to use an online process to apply for asylum before coming the US Border – failure to use the online process results in automatic removal without consideration of any underlying claim. During the period prior to the end of Title 42, there was an inordinate increase in the number of Jamaicans attempting to and crossing the US Mexico border – most utilizing third countries as a conduit. This resulted in countries such as Belize increasing their immigration processing of Jamaicans who enter the country – as records could not account for legal exit of an equal number. A number of Republican controlled states, e.g., Florida and Texas sent immigrants to various states across the country without full information of where they were being sent and why. The immigrants were sent to cities supportive of immigrants without warning. Investigations continue into Florida’s involvement in this process as the immigrants that Florida paid to be bussed to other states, did not enter the United States via the state of Florida. The Florida legislature approved $12 million for this continued process. The Florida legislature in which the Republican Party has a “super majority” – enough votes to pass legislation without bipartisan support – passed numerous laws that reshaped the state, including anti diversity, LGBTQ, education, criminal rights and immigration laws. While all the laws passed will impact Jamaicans living in the State, the immigration laws (which are being challenged) will impact the undocumented severely. SB1718 makes several Florida based immigration laws, including among others making it a felony for anyone who knows or who should have known that a person they transported into Florida is undocumented and entered without inspection at the US border. It also requires any employer with more than 25 employees to verify that all their employees have permission to work in America
161 EUROPE Much has taken place in the European Region and the European Union, below are some of the major issues we should follow as they affect the entire world and mostly our Region. The term coined by Bob Marley “so much trouble in the world” is applicable to this geopolitical region. The European Union The European Union has lifted restrictions on Japanese food imports imposed after the meltdown at Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, weeks before Japan is expected to start pumping wastewater from the facility into the Pacific Ocean. The EU announcement came after talks at a summit in Brussels between the European Council president, Charles Michel, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the Japanese prime minister, Fumio Kishida. The E*U’s decision is seen as part of an attempt to make progress on the removal of trade barriers to EU beef, fruit and vegetables, whose access to Japan is limited by food safety rules. Eleven countries now maintain import controls on produce from Fukushima and other parts of Japan. China, a vocal critic of the water discharge, this week suggested it could widen restrictions on Japanese food imports, while Hong Kong said it would ban seafood from Fukushima and nine other prefectures if the water release goes ahead. Hong Kong is Japan’s second largest market, after mainland China, for agricultural and fisheries exports. It exported fishery products worth ¥75.5bn ($536m) to Hong Kong last year, according to Japanese government statistics. Russia’s consumer protection agency said it would step up supervision of marine products imported from Japan The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is to return to Tunisia on Sunday with the prime ministers of Italy and the Netherlands to sign off the details of a €1bn deal aimed at combating people smuggling and supporting the country’s collapsing economy. Von der Leyen’s trip comes one month after the trio went to Tunisia to unveil a package involving €900m (£770m) of macro financial assistance with a further €150m to support a reform agenda set by the International Monetary Fund. As part of the €1bn package, a further €105m will be funnelled into a new partnership with Tunisia to combat people-smuggling, human trafficking and the continuing tragedies at sea. The EU has been eager to stress the wider economic parts of the package to break an impasse in negotiations following the declaration by the Tunisian president, Kais Saied, that his country would not be the EU’s “border guard”. It is also keen to ink the deal to demonstrate to member states where migration is a hot political issue that it is taking action to reduce the numbers crossing its borders. Italy Early on the morning of the Adriana’s final day at sea, the Italian authorities sent a troubling warning to their EU and Greek colleagues: Two children had died aboard the overloaded migrant boat. The alert was sent at 8:01 a.m. UTC, just over an hour after the Italians initially spotted the vessel at 6:51 a.m., an investigation by Welt am Sonntag and POLITICO found. The ship would later stall out in the ocean and capsize that night, killing hundreds of migrants on board. New details are revealed in an internal document at the EU border agency Frontex and seen by Welt, part of a “serious incident report” Frontex is compiling on the tragedy. Dimitris Kairidis, Greece’s newly appointed migration minister, stated that he had not seen the Frontex note, and he neither confirmed nor denied that Athens had received the Rome alert mentioning dead children. There is, he said, an “independent judicial investigation,” and if anyone is found responsible, “there will definitely be consequences.” The United Kingdom With the Conservatives struggling to hold on to power, the foreign policy seems to mimic the struggles in the UK. The United Kingdom has changed Prime Ministers
162 twice in the political year and our sister party, the Labour Party, has won the 2023 Local Government Elections. The Party is also on the upward trajectory to win the next General Election which is excellent news. Labour has now become the largest party of local government - surpassing the Tories for the first time since 2002 in a historic milestone, but they still have much more to do if they want to gain a majority in the House of Commons. They have captured 1,000+ seats in the various local authorities throughout the Britain. The election took place in May 2023. In October 2022, Rishi Sunak succeeded Liz Truss after only one month in office after a disastrous attempt at economic reform by her and her Finance Minister, Kwesi Boateng. Sunak will become the latest leader of the ruling Conservative Party to enter the revolving door of No. 10 Downing St., following Liz Truss’ resignation just 44 days after taking office. Her scandal-plagued predecessor, Boris Johnson, dropped his bid for a comeback. In his first public statement after the results were announced, Sunak said the country faces a “profound economic challenge.” He went on to pledge to work for “stability and unity,” and added that he would make it his “utmost priority” to unite the party and the country. He is the first British Asian to hold the office. Britain’s approach to the national security threat posed by China is “completely inadequate”, with too much focus on short-term economics rather than long-term risks, a parliamentary committee said on Thursday. From academia, which was a “rich feeding ground” for China to exert political sway, to an over-reliance on Chinese technology, the government had placed too much emphasis on investment over potential security harms, it said in a report. “The government has been readily accepting Chinese money with few questions asked,” Julian Lewis, the ISC chair, told reporters. “But without swift and decisive action, we are on a trajectory to the nightmare scenario where China steals blueprints, sets standards and builds products, exerting political and economic influence at every step,” he said, adding it potentially posed “an existential threat to liberal democratic systems”. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has come under pressure from some lawmakers in his Conservative Party to take a tougher stance with China, but he has tried to walk a difficult line saying the West should not decouple from Beijing. Sunak said the government had taken measures to reduce Britain’s reliance on Chinese technology and prevent interference, but he wanted to have “open” and “constructive” relations with China. France France continues to be griped by protests against police violence which they have banned. There have also been ongoing protests in relation to pension reform causing social and political upheaval. Pension Reform Protests On January 31, 2023, France saw widespread strikes as workers across the country took to the streets to protest against the government’s proposed pension reforms. In Paris, the strike brought the city to a standstill as public transportation was severely disrupted, with only minimal services operating. Trade unions and left-wing political parties are at the forefront of the strikes, which are part of a larger movement against the government’s proposed reforms to the country’s pension system that would raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 against what they term a completely unfair and oppressive reform which does not take into account the rights of the workers. President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to press forward with the Pension Reform and on April 15, 2023 he signed into law a controversial bill to raise the country’s retirement age by two years. The proclamation of the law came after France’s Constitutional Council approved the main retirement-age measure which the government forced through parliament without a final vote following months of protests against the reform.
163 Polls have consistently shown the majority of French citizens are opposed to working two more years before being able to reap pension benefits. The legislation also requires people to work 43 years to receive a full pension, among other changes to the system. The leftwing Nupes political alliance was one of the groups that lodged an appeal with the court over the reforms and its leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, said the “fight” would continue. “The Constitutional Council’s decision shows that it is more attentive to the needs of the presidential monarchy than to those of the sovereign people,” he said. Marine Le Pen of the far-right National Rally, which had also appealed to the court, responded on social media that “the political fate of the pension reform is not sealed”. While the court rejected an initial bid for a referendum on the reforms, it will decide next month on a further proposal for a national vote by the left. Police Protests In relation to the Police protests, Judges from Paris’ administrative court at midday on Saturday (July 8, 2023) rejected an appeal brought by a national organisation against police violence (la Coordination nationale contre les violences policières) to allow Saturday’s demonstration to go ahead at Place de la République in the French capital from 3:00pm. The ruling followed an announcement from Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin on Wednesday banning any demonstrations up to July 15 “directly linked to the riots” that followed the death of 17-year-old boy who was shot and killed by police on June 27 in the Paris suburb of Nanterre following a police traffic stop. France was wracked by almost a week of violent demonstrations against police violence after the teenager was killed LATIN AMERICA Brazil The People’s National Party welcomes the election of President Lula da Silva and the Workers Party. This is another progressive voice in the Region. Since the election of President Lula, there has been a number of changes in the government structure. There is now a Minister for Indigenous Affairs and the Local Authorities has become more decentralized by giving more responsibilities to community-based organizations. The cabinet has seen the largest number of women in its membership in the history of the country with eleven women being members. Marina Silva is Environment Minister, Simone Tebet is Minister of Planning and Sonia Guajajara is Minister of Indigenous Affairs, just to name a few. Mexico Mexico’s governing party won most of the State Governor Elections and continues to look in good shape for the Presidential elections next year. With PRI losing the state of Mexico, the governing party continues to grow in an upward direction. Two members of the PNP participated in this election as members of international observer team, namely, Cde Everton Hannam and Cde Gabriela Morris. We will continue to monitor the movements of the political climate of the country. Chile After Chile elected the youngest leader in Latin America, the country still continues to face a number of challenges in the eyes of the international community. One of those challenges is human rights abuses. In a World Bank report on the social conditions of the country, mention is made of the behavior of the police force and other areas of law enforcement. Nevertheless, the country is trying to address this issue by reforming the police force and modernizing its leadership. As well as confronting past abuses coming out of the regime of Augusto Pinochet and the process of court proceedings against military officers. In other areas such as refugee rights and immigration, the country is addressing the weaknesses of the system, however, much more to be done. For instance, in 2021 congress passed a bill for the authorities to issue deportation notices without a hearing by a court of law which is not in keeping with several conventions of human rights
164 Peru On the 7th of December 2022 Congress removed President Pedro Castillio and trouble broke loose in the country .He was replaced by his Vice President Dina Zagarra who became the first female President of the country. This triggered violent protests and mass demonstrations calling for her resignation and fresh elections. The effect of this was violent clashes with the military and dozens having been killed. Columbia In August 2022 Columbia began anew political chapter with the inauguration of Gustavo Petro, the country’s first-ever leftist president and former guerilla. Additionally, Francia Marquez, the first Afro-Columbian, was elected as Vice President. Permanent Conference of Political Parties of Latin America and the Caribbean (COPPPAL} Through the instrumentality of Cde Bancroft Stanley, COPPPAL has established a Commission to deal with issues concerning workers and unions for the first time. As a result, this Commission coordinated an international training program through the COPPPAL Training Institute for political parties that are members of the Commission. The PNPYO and PNP Women’s Movement participated is this series of trainings with 18 members of the PNPYO and 7 members of the Women’s Movement involved. OTHER ACTIVITIES In March, the Commission organize a successful meeting at Jamaica Pegasus with members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps accredited to Jamaica. The Party Leader, the Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, the General Secretary of the Party, Co-Chairs Dalley and Walker-Huntington and members were in attendance. This was the first time our Party Leader was meeting collectively with members of the Corps. The participants were extremely happy to hear from our Leader on the Party’s goals and expectation. We are looking forward to hosting another meeting later in the year as requested by the diplomats. The new Chinese Ambassador invited members of the Commission to an evening of friendship exchange with he and his staff in order to become acquainted with our purpose. Commission members organized a meeting with the Leader of the Fusion Party of Haiti, a Socialist International member, while in Jamaica attending the CARICOM Forum on Haiti. Co-Chair Dalley and the General Secretary attended, via Zoom, a Global meeting of political parties hosted by President Xi Jinping of China. Officers of the PNP Women’s Movement had a Zoom Meeting with the Cuban Federation of Women. This meeting, facilitated by the Cuban Embassy, was very informative and inspiring. The Commission welcomes the appointment of Senator Janice Allen as a Vice President of Socialist International Latin America and the Caribbean CONCLUSION The Commission will continue to fulfill its mandate to strengthen relationships with progressive parties around the world; to establish new relationships with like-minded parties; and to expand our relationship with the Diaspora. At the same, we will continue to monitor the global international climate in order to give our Party Leader and the Party in general our best advice. Socialist International The People’s National Party (PNP) remains an active member of this organisation ever since it became a member in the 1970s. Founded in 1951, Socialist International remains committed to its core values of Promoting democracy, Progress for the working class
165 people around the world, Equality, and Peace. Our former leader, Cde. Micheal Manley was a stalwart of this organisation, serving as a Vice President for many years. Presently, Socialist International has a new President and Secretary General who were elected at its Congress in November of 2022. Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sanchez, was elected the new President. The People’s National Party welcomes President Sanchez and wishes for him a very successful term as President of this very prestigious organisation. Prime Minister Sanchez will continue as President, following the footsteps of former Presidents such as: Cde. Alsing Anderson, Willy Brandt, António Guterres (now General Secretary of the UN) and George Papandreou. We wish the new President well and look forward to working with him. At the Congress last November, a new Secretary General was also elected in the person of Cde. Benedicta Lasi from Ghana. We welcome her as the new Secretary General and will continue to support her work internationally and regionally. The PNP wishes to thank the immediate past Secretary General, Cde. Luis Ayala who served Socialist International for many years, and who supported the PNP over the years. The Party participated in two special meetings of the Latin America and Caribbean Committee held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in March 2023, and was represented by Cde. Horace Dalley, Cde. DSG Dexroy Martin, Cde. Everton Hannam and Cde. Senator Janice Allen. Our Party is pleased to announce that Cde. Janice Allen was appointed as a Vice President for the Latin America and Caribbean region. Some issues addressed by Socialist International during the period are: 1) The political and social crisis in Haiti 2) The continued crisis facing the Palestinian people 3) The expression of solidarity with the women and girls of Afghanistan 4) Socialist International denounced the executions in Myanmar 5) The devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria 6) The detention of several Catholic Priests in Nicaragua 7) The continued crisis in Sudan 8) The detention of Raul Gandhi in India 9) The victory of Cde. Lula and the Workers’ Party in Brazil 10) The recent coup in Niger 11) The continuous Russia/Ukraine war 12) The democratic crisis in Israel Our Party will continue to let its voice be heard within the Socialist International as we move towards the return of progressive government within the Caribbean and Latin America.
166 The Political Education and Training Commission focused on establishing an Orientation Programme for new and existing members. • At almost every NEC for the last two years we have established the need for an orientation Programme for our members: • As we attract new members, we want them to understand our structures, who we are and what we stand for and our vision for Jamaica. • As new persons enter the sphere of representation politics on behalf of the Party, we want to make sure they are grounded in our principles and beliefs. • As our existing members get ready to hit the road canvassing • We want them to be prepared to inform the constituents of our successes and why when we form the government, we will be best equipped to move Jamaica in a New Direction – the right direction grounded in the principles of Equality and Social Justice • That when conflicts arise, they know how to use the Party’s structures to help them resolve the issues. The orientation will be delivered in two modalities: • Online – Google Classroom • Modules 1- 3 self-directed and Module 4 and 5 being blended, online with live presenter. • In person Module 1 – 4 with Module 4 to include online participants who have completed Modules 1 -3 in one session. • Module 5 to be in a separate session online with live presenter. (Each Module will be delivered in approximately 90 minutes) There will be an online assessment at the end of each module. Upon completion each participant will be given a certificate of completion The Modules are: Module 1 - What it means to be a Comrade and the structures of the Party. Module 2 - The history of the Party 1938 - 2022 Module 3 - The Partys vision and the way forward - Based on the Bogues report. Module 4 - Discussion on the top 3 issues from the Bogues report with a view of being prepared to canvass 20 persons on one topic (individual choice) Module 5 - The Party’s Voter Engagement (canvassing) training. (To be finalized with the Party’s existing training programmes) In person sessions will be offered once per quarter in each region on the third Sunday of each month in 2 regions: Month 1 – Region 1 and 4 (August, January, and April) Month 2 – Region 2 and 5 (October, February, and May) Month 3 – Region 3 and 6 (November, March, and June) Political Education and Training Commission REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY
167 (July is excluded because of The PNP Womens Movement Conference, September is excluded because of the National Conference and December excluded because of Christmas.) The registration form will be published on the Party’s website and circulated by Whats App through the regional leadership. The google classroom code and login information for Module 4 OR the confirmation of date and location of in person sessions will then be sent to the participants. We did the first delivery of Modules 1 -4 on January 29th in Westmoreland as a test and since then made some minor edits to the presentation. This session was recorded and a google classroom has been set up for facilitator’s training to which we have added the video. We will have continuous training of facilitators who are being and will be recruited on a continuous basis. We also established a content committee led that will update the Google classrooms and produce 2 videos per month, one highlighting historical achievements and one highlighting the Party’s position on current issues. Cde. Schamona Robinson and Amelia Fearon are responsible for the content committee to continuously update and maintain these classrooms and create the videos. We will work with the Party to send them to Group members (Chairs and Secretaries at minimum.) The commission has submitted a resolution to make this orientation programme be a requirement for all new members joining in the new Political Year and beyond. It also includes a proposal for the programme to be incorporated in the re- registration programme. The structures review committee has indicated that the Political Education and Training Commission is to define and monitor a programme of work for the Political Education Officers of the region and the constituency. This orientation will form the main component of the Political Education Programme in the next political year and targets will be agreed for the number of existing members and that all new members to complete the orientation programme. In the year we had a Political Education Programme done in both was Regions 3 and 6 initiated by the Political Education Officers. Patricia Duncan Sutherland Chairman Political Education and Training Commission
168 Structures Review Committee REPORT OF THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY 1) Commission Meeting & Members The Commission met seven times throughout the political year. Those participating were; Andrea Moore - NWU Rep Anthony Hylton - Legal Advisor, PNP Bancroft Stanley – NWU Alternative Colin Hitchman - Region Six Chairman Dexroy Martin - Deputy General Secretary Garth Soares - Region Three Rep Hopeton McCatty - Co-opted, Resource Member Ian Emanuel - Co-opted Jennifer Edwards - PNPWM Rep Lenroy James - Patriots Rep. Norman Minott - Executive Assignee Paul Burke- Chairman Pauline Foster - Region One Rep Thelma Johill - Executive Assignee Active Participation: The Committee also wishes to commend Comrades Dexroy Martin, Garth Soares, Ian Emanuel, Jennifer Edwards and Thelma Johill for their active participation it its work. 2) The Proposed Constitutional Amendments A number of proposed amendments to the Party Constitution were made in the Structures Review Committee Report to the 84th Annual National Conference in September 2022. Due to the tight time constraints, the Annual Conference by resolution approved and assigned these proposed amendments to the National Executive Council, with the authorization to amend, approve or reject the proposed amendments, as determined by that body. The NEC also constrained by its agendas and discussions, was only able to recently address these matters. A special NEC virtual meeting was convened on Sunday 21st May, 2023 which commenced the review and this continued at the last NEC Meeting in June, but not concluded. Most of these amendments have been approved, some with amendments. Working with the Party Secretariat, a full list of these new approved constitutional rules will be made in an addendum, hopefully after the conclusion of the review of the remaining proposed amendment at this weekend’s NEC. This will be presented for final vetting to the Party’s Executive Committee. 3) The Bylaws This is being presented in two categories. a) The PNP Bylaws (Approved). This will be updated after this NEC to include all the resolutions that have been approved this 2022-23 political year and will also be placed in the Bylaws already approved and attached as an addendum to this report for National Conference.
169 b) Proposed PNP Bylaws (already tabled and to be reviewed). These ideally need to go to the constituencies and if possible, also to our Party Groups for discussion. The priority bylaws need to be determined and a timeframe established for the Regions to report back to the NEC. Regional Discussions: As indicated before, representatives of the Structures Review Committee are prepared to come either to scheduled Regional Meetings, or to special convened regional meetings to introduce and if needs be, facilitate the discussions, or to host virtual sessions. Publication: Apart from digital copies, we expect to have hard copies available at this year’s Annual Regional Conferences. Matters to be codified: In addition to what is being put forward in the approved and proposed bylaws, there are also some new matters, particularly relating to conventions which may be deemed necessary to be codified. However, we have taken the decision not to add any more constitutional matters or bylaws before the Party, until all the proposed constitutional amendments and bylaws have been discussed and determined 4) Political Education Resolutions for PNP Constitution There were reviewed with the Chairman of the Political Education Commission, Comrade Patricia Sutherland at our last SRC meeting held on Saturday 8th July and these will be presented to the NEC by the Political Education Commission 5) Recommendations People’s National Party Complied Rules Taking a leaf of the Labour (British) Party, we should consider producing one rule book compiling all the rules and bylaws into one publication, indicating which are in the constitution and how amendments, additions or removals for such rules are done by resolution at an Annual National Conference and which others (the bylaws), can be changed, added, or removed, by resolution through the NEC. Developing a PNP Handbook There are several other Party practises and matters which are long in need of developing and codifying, but do not really belong in our rules, such as the role and responsibilities of officers at the Group, Divisional, Constituency, Regional and National levels, as well as the role and responsibilities of Cluster Managers, also providing model agendas so as to guide meetings for the various structures, should be readily available in a publication. Paul Burke Chairman Structures Review Committee 17th July, 2023.
170 OVERVIEW The O.T. Fairclough Trust Fund for Party Workers was founded by the People’s National Party (PNP) President, Comrade Leader Mark J. Golding, in 2020 and was named after O.T. Fairclough to honour his legacy and good works as a founding member of our noble party. OUR MISSION is to ensure that Party Workers who need a helping hand have access to support through partnerships with local and diaspora organizations. OUR VISION is to improve the welfare of our faithful Party Workers and their families. TRUSTEES Trustees are charged with the task of fundraising and are the custodians of this trust. The Trustees rely on research and guidance from a Grants Board who identifies various projects which are then tabled for consideration and approval supported by PNP General Secretary Cde Dr. Dayton Campbell and Cde Shameel Brown. The Trustees include: Cde Katrin Casserly (Chair) Cde Ambassador Burchell Whiteman Cde Senator Norman Grant Cde Kisha Anderson Cde Peter Reid GRANT BOARD MEMBERS The Members of the Grant Board represent the PNP’s core arms and affiliates with members from Regions 1 - 6, the PNP Youth Organisation, the PNP Women’s Movement, the National Works Union (NWU), PNP Patriots and the PNP Councillor Caucus. Chair- Cde Richard Azan Regional Representatives Region 1: Cde Karen Hinds-Spencer Region 2: Cde Sanieka Kelly Region 3: Cde Karl Kirkland Region 4: Cde Patricia Harris Region 5: Cde Verna Manning Region 6: Cde Colin Hitchman Arms and Affiliates Women’s Movement: Cde Keshia Phillips-Sutherland People’s National Party YO: Cde Sheina Gay Richards Patriots: Cde Christopher Henry NWU: Cde Granville Valentine Councillor Caucus: Cde Keisha Lewis FUNDRAISING PNP Party President, Comrade Leader Mark J. Golding endowed the O. T. Fairclough Trust Fund with JMD 15 million seed funding and charged the Trustees with ensuring that the Trust Fund is appropriately financed
171 to carry out the stated goals for the long term. 10% of this seed funding is available the upcoming political year for projects - the main focus of the trustees is to create a fundraising network to ensure the continued growth and availability of funds to fulfill the allocated and approved projects. ACHIEVEMENTS ● Since January 26, 2021 - the Board of Trustees has regular and monthly meetings ● OTF logo, tag line, vision and mission statements were created ● Grant Board was formed ● Grant Board meetings are attended by one or two Trustees ● Website www.otfaircloughtrustfund.org went live in September 2021 ● Grant Request Forms for seamless processing and record keeping were designed ● Identified 1st project in Region 6 headed by Cde Colin Hitchman, Region 6 Chair ● Groundbreaking and completion of 1st Housing Project in Petersfield, Westmoreland ● Identified thirty-one (31) students (children of Party Workers) for Back-to-School Grants ● Grant & Awards Ceremony held at Headquarters between the Academic Year 2021- 2022 and 2022 - 2023, attended by Comrade Leader Mark Golding and Mrs. Golding. Each student was handed a certificate and the funds were transferred to the institutions. ● Assisted in Region 5 with Cde Lennox “Pretty” Stephenson funeral service expenses ● Identified and approved the commencement of 2 (two) new housing projects for the upcoming political year ● Trustees identified a course of action regarding fund raising - two mass emails were sent out and personal follow ups are ongoing. ● A social media coordinator was confirmed and OTFTF have started an IG and FB social media account NEXT STEPS The OT Fairclough Trust Fund has set the following principal goals for achievement over the next twentyfour (24) months: ● Provide funding and support for a home renovation in each of the 6 Regions ● Follow up on all previous scholars to renew scholarship if needed, and award twelve more (12) PNP workers’ children with a backto-school grant for a minimum of one (1) academic year (to be continued based on performance) ● Assist ten (10) long standing members of the PNP with a small-business development grant ● Plan and executive the first fundraising events in October 2023
RESOLUTIONS
175 Whereas, a growing number of Jamaicans, indeed the vast number of Jamaicans have low trust in governments and borne out in the recent Don Anderson polls, which have also deemed that the Jamaican public deem politicians to be the most corrupt group; And whereas, this low trust and high index of corruptions of politicians has both increased and been compounded by this present Andrew Holness led JLP Administration with their numerous promises, starting with what Prime Minister Holness promised the Jamaican people he would undertake within the first 100 days and he was first sworn in as Prime Minister in March 2016 and numerous of cases of looting, enrichment, cronyism, nepotism, favoritism, victimization and coverup resulting in low trust; And whereas, the PNP in 2018 commenced a series of consultations to arrive at a covenant between the People’s Party and the Jamaican people; And whereas, we the members of the New Foundations Group as of the view that such a covenant under whatever terminology is not only desirable, but absolutely necessary; Be it resolved, that among the key point addressing the issues of building trust, reducing corruption and improving the social life of the Jamaican people that the New Foundations Group would want to be considered by the People’s National Party, are the following; Resolution #1 New Foundations’ Resolution A Covenant with the People of Jamaica - Outlining Priority Commitments with Timelines Resolutions tothe 85thannualnationalconference
176 Economic & Social 1. That the minimum wage will transcend to a livable wage within the first two years of the PNP Administration taking office and above that, there will be a minimum wage for certain categories of workers to include, but not limited to, industrial security guards, hotel workers in their various categories, shop clerks, BPO workers, fast food workers, service station attendants, etc.; 2. Now that our banks and their services have become part of the essential services, that bank service fees be regulated to protect the consumers, allowing them make a reasonable return on their services and investments, rather than the now rapacious returns on investments; 3. As Jamaica becomes more at risk for food security / sovereignty, that a PNP Administration embarks on a massive state assisted ‘Grow What You Eat and Eat What We Grow’ Campaign, including support for what was traditionally termed kitchen gardens; Family 4. That the DNA results of each every child born in Jamaica be provided to both parents being registered on birth certificate and secondly, in the case where paternal registration is being avoided, the state must make every effort to identify the biological fathers of all Jamaican born children, including compulsory DNA test by a court action; 5. The Buggery Act to remain illegal, outside of approval of a national referendum; 6. A PNP Administration will not approve same-sex marriages, outside of approval of a national referendum; Education 7. That in order to end the apartheid in education, there must be quality standards for all schools at all levels and that the State in collaboration with Parent Teachers Associations, have a responsibility to bring all schools up to these quality standards within a five year period of a PNP Administration taking office; 8. That quality education must for all not only be accessible, but that a PNP Administration will find the ways and means as our top national priority so that in the first instance the education of our children should be fully state funded at the early childhood, primary and secondary levels, along with a proper meal daily also provided as part and parcel of this state funded education for all children; 9. That all informal occupants on state owned land, not in any disaster prone areas and subject to their occupation posing no environmental risks, be given lease purchase agreements for their land at a reduced market price; Governance 10. That the People’s National Party will develop its own Code of Conduct, Code of Ethics, Performance and Standards and will ensure its compliance from all our Elected representatives.
177 11. That an impeachment bill be made law within the first eighteen months of a PNP Administration; 12. That if Jamaica has not become a republic, that that removal of the monarchy on any grounds be carried within eighteen months of a PNP administration coming to office; 13. That within the constitution or separate legislation that a PNP Government will advocate for provisions with safeguards, allowing for the recall of a Member of Parliament, both of the House of Representatives and the Upper House; 14. That Local Government Election can only be postponed for a maximum period of six months in any one instance and only one two such consecutive occasions. thereby maximizing the postponement of such elections for a maximum of one year in totality; Governance, Transparency and Anti- Corruption Measures 15. That any re-zoning of agricultural properties regardless of size, be notified to the general public at least 60 days prior to any approval and that the relevant Local Municipal Authority be incorporated in the approval process; 16. That all sales of government owned land more than an acre be advertised with the valuation and after its sale, the terms and condition of the sale be made accessible to the public; 17. That the terms and conditions of all government contracts, including private public agreements, including those with the GOJ and foreign companies or governments, be made accessible to the public within 90 days of being signed; 18. That the human resource capacity and support budget of the integrity Commission, The JCF’s Fraud Squad, the Auditors’ General Department be significantly upgraded so that all investigations can be included in a one year period and a maximum of eighteen months; 19. That an Anti-Corruption Court be established and properly resourced so that all cases involving the embezzlement of public funds can be concluded within a two year period and an absolute maximum of three years (unlike the present matter with the Caribbean Maritime University involving a former Minister of Government); Community Development & Reducing Political Tribalism 20. A legislative mechanism to be found at the community level, whether through community councils, community development committees or citizen associations, by whatever name and in whichever form, to ensure that there is real people participation at the local government level and ensure their input to community and national development. The Party must lead, the government must implement, and the people must insist on meaningful mechanisms and avenues for their participation in self-government, national development, and a better quality of life; New Foundations Group June 2023
178 TAKING INTO ACCOUNT, the anti-Party practice of unknown members of the Party with access to sensitive confidential information concerning the Party’s plans, programmes and activities which it intends to remain confidential, disclosing such information to third parties who are not authorized by the Party to receive such information; FURTHER TAKING ACCOUNT, of the damage to the Party’s interests caused by or threatened by this undesirable practice by person(s) in whom trust and authority is reposed by the wider membership of the Party; ACKNOWLEDGING, the efforts made by the Party over time to have this undesirable practice cease or otherwise curtailed and the person(s) so engaged identified, without success to date; FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGING, the difficulty in identifying person(s) engaged in such activities for the purpose of rooting out said anti-Party activity due, in part, to the ubiquitous nature of modern technology and the various ways in which such sensitive confidential information is shared; BUT DESIRING, to eliminate or minimize the harm to the Party’s interests that can and has come from the unauthorized access to and disclosure of such sensitive confidential information; BE IT RESOLVED, that the Party be authorized to take such measures as is necessary to minimize such activities including, but not limited to, the amendment of the by-rules governing disciplinary proceeding against member(s) charged with the unauthorized disclosure of such sensitive confidential information to, inter alia, shift the burden of proof to the person so charged once a prima-facie case has been made-out against that person to disprove the case against him/her. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the act of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive confidential information by persons in positions in the Party which authorize them to receive such information, shall be deemed an act of gross misconduct, and that a person(s) so charged and proven guilty be subjected to the full range of punishment by the disciplinary committee, including expulsion from the Party or such lesser punishment as the circumstance warrants. Resolution #2 Resolution On The Unauthorized Disclosure of sensitive Information By Privileged Person(s)
179 WHEREAS, the People’s National Party has been the driving force of democracy in Jamaica and democracy is entrenched in the Party’s internal structures WHEREAS, members are free to seek election to positions within the regional structure and to the National Executive Council of the Party WHEREAS, members have failed to regularly attend meetings of the Regional Executive Council and the Regional Managing Committee after being duly elected and/or appointed AND WHEREAS, this low attendance has negatively affected the work of the region BE IT RESOLVED that sanctions be brought on elected and/or appointed members of the regional body who have been consecutively absent without reasonable excuse from three (3) or more regional meetings and/or have been negligent in carrying out their respective functions as outlined by the Regional Executive Council and the Party’s Constitution. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that such sanctions may include but not limited to 1. Being suspended from the office held at the time of the absence without reasonable excuse 2. Being disqualified from being re elected or reappointed to the office held at the time of the absence without reasonable excuse 3. Being fined in lieu of items 1 and 2 above, said fine should be the equivalent of dues payable for the year based on the membership of the relevant body from which suspension or disqualification for election, re-election or appointment would arise. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any member against whom sanctions are directed, shall have the right to a hearing to prior to the imposition of said sanctions and the right to appeal any imposition to the Internal Affairs Commission of the Party Moved by Cde. Tiara Murray Vice President. Women’s Movement Seconded by Cde. Keisha Lewis Regional Secretary Resolution #3 To bring sanctions against elected and/or appointed members derelict in attending meetings and carrying out their assigned duties
180 Whereas the Party is committed to expanding its membership through its group members And whereas recruitment is one of the critical responsibilities of a member And whereas the Party’s constitution requires that all members upholds of the principles of the party and uses the structures to advance the work of the party And whereas in order the promote the Party’s principles, objectives and policies a member must understand the structure, history, achievements and vision of the Party Be it resolved that all members that apply for membership in the 2023 political year and beyond must participate in the Party’s level 1 orientation programme and complete the assessment as evidence of same. Be it further resolved that existing Party members as a part of the re-verification process participates in a level 2 orientation programme. Moved by: Patricia Duncan Sutherland, Chair of the Political Education and Training Commission Seconded by: James Walsh Member of the Political Education and Training Commission Resolution #4 RESOLUTION FOR ORIENTATION PROGRAMME TO BE REQUIRED TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE PARTY
181 to amend the Dispute Resolution and the Disciplinary provisions in the Constitution of the People’s National Party, 2023 Object and purpose: This amendment is intended to replace sections 252 to 258 (inclusive) of the Party’s Constitution with provisions that establish a modern, efficient, centralised, and structured approach to the management of disciplinary issues within the Party. The following are the proposed new sections :- 252. In this section unless the context otherwise requires : “Commission” means the Party’s Internal Affair’s Commission. “Committee” means the Disciplinary Committee established herein. “Dispute Resolution Committee” means the conciliatory committee of the Commission established ad hoc to provide mediation services for disputes referred to it. “Disciplinary Offence” means any act or omission by a member of the Party which falls within the schedule of disciplinary offences set out in the Schedule hereto 253. (1) The Commission shall have the authority to investigate allegations of disciplinary offences: (i) on its own motion; (ii) on receipt of a complaint by any member, group, division, region, committee, or other organ of the Party; or (iii) on referral from the National Executive Council or the Executive Committee (2) A member, group, committee, or other organ of the party that has reasonable grounds to believe that a disciplinary offence has been, is being, or is likely to be committed by a member of the Party shall be entitled to lodge a report and/or complaint with the Commission. (3) The Commission shall, within ninety (90) days of receipt of a report or complaint under subsection (2) hereof, proceed to investigate such complaint and shall have the right to: resolutions passed
182 (i) interview the complainant, the accused member/s, and witnesses, and other persons of interest implicated by the complaint; (ii) request the production of documents, audio visual recordings, correspondence (including electronic correspondence in whatever form), and any other material that it deems directly relevant to the subject matter of the complaint and/or report. (4) Refusal by any member to comply with any reasonable request of the Commission made under subsection (3) hereof may be referred to the Committee for its consideration of an appropriate sanction in the circumstances of the case. 254. (1) Upon completion of its investigation, within such period as is reasonable in the circumstances, the Commission shall, in its sole discretion, determine whether the evidence arising out of its investigation of a complaint gives rise to a prima facie case that the accused member/s has/have committed a disciplinary offence. (2) Where the Commission determines that a prima facie case has been made out against an accused member, the Commission shall: (i) in the case of a complaint alleging gross misconduct as defined in the Schedule hereto, refer the complaint to the Committee; (ii) in the case of a complaint which does not allege gross misconduct, refer the complaint to the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) for mediation. (3) Upon receiving referral of a complaint, the DRC shall: (i) facilitate conciliatory and/or mediation meetings with the aggrieved and accused parties in accordance with the Grievance Procedure and Dispute Resolution Process set out in the By Rules of the Constitution with a view to resolving the dispute; (ii) furnish a report to the Committee within thirty (30) days of the date of the referral confirming whether the complaint has been resolved; or (iii) where a complaint referred to it has been resolved, cause a certificate to be issued to the Commission together with its report under subsection (ii) hereof, duly signed by the parties to the complaint that the dispute has been resolved, and the Commission shall take no further action after receipt of the certificate. (4) Upon receipt of a report from the DRC that a complaint has not been resolved by conciliation/mediation, the Commission shall refer the complaint to the Committee. (5) In any case where the Commission has referred a complaint to the Committee for adjudication, the Commission shall: (i) Issue a charge letter to the accused which must:
183 a. inform the accused of the details of the allegations against them; b. enclose copies of all material, documents, statements, etc. which were disclosed to the Commission during its investigative process; c. advise the accused of his right to be represented at the hearing of the dispute before the Committee by an Attorney-at-Law or another member of the party if they so choose; (ii) issue to the Committee a Notice of Referral and supplying it with a copy of the charge letter and enclosed documents referred to under subsection 5(i) hereof; and (iii) appoint a nominee from among its members to lead the evidence against the accused member at the Committee’s hearing. 255. (1) The Party Executive Committee shall appoint: (i) not more than ten (10) members of the Party to the Committee, who: a. are in good standing; b. have been members for no less than 10 years; c. who are, in its evaluation, found to be members of high moral character; and (ii) not more than five (5) persons to the Committee who are not members of the Party, who are known to be sympathetic to the Party and are : a. Attorneys-at-Law who have been entitled to practice law in Jamaica or in the Diaspora for 10 years or more and/or are; b. former members of the judiciary of Jamaica, and/or are; c. accredited in dispute resolution by the Disputes Resolution Foundation of Jamaica; (2) No member of the Party’s Executive Committee shall be appointed a member of the Committee. (3) The Party’s Executive Committee shall appoint one member selected pursuant to section 255 to serve as Chairperson of the Committee. (4) The Chairperson of the Committee shall, for the purpose of adjudicating a complaint, refer the complaint to a panel of members of the Committee comprised of two members appointed pursuant to section 255(1)(i) and one member appointed pursuant to section 255(1)(ii).
184 (5) The Panel shall issue to the Commission, the accused member, and all interested parties a Notice of Hearing advising them of the date, time, and location of the hearing no later than seven (7) days prior to the hearing date. 256. The Panel of members shall, after a full hearing concerning the complaint determine whether the allegations set out in the complaint have been made out against the member and, if so, it shall: (i) in the case of a finding of an offence which is not an offence of gross misconduct: a. censure the member and issue to them a written warning; b. suspend the member from a post, office, or position held within the Party for a period of no more than thirty (30) days; c. suspend the member from the Party for a period of no more than 30 days; and/or d. cause the member to publish a private or public apology. (ii) in the case of a finding of an offence which is an offence of gross misconduct: a. censure the member and issue to them a written warning; b. suspend the member from a post, office, or position held within the Party for a period of no more than 1 year; c. suspend the member from the Party for a period of no more than 1 year; d. cause the member to publish a private or public apology; and/or e. Expel the member from the party. 257. All decisions of the Committee shall be communicated to the affected member in writing within fourteen (14) days of the decision being made and the member must be advised of the right to appeal against the sanction the Appellate Tribunal. 258. (1) The Party’s Executive Committee shall appoint an Appeals Tribunal comprising three (3) persons, not more than one (1) of whom is not a member of the Party, who are either: a. Attorneys-at-Law who have been entitled to practice law in Jamaica or in the Diaspora for no less than 10 years and/or; b. A former member of the judiciary of Jamaica;
185 (2) A party member who has been sanctioned by the Committee may lodge an appeal by issuing a Notice of Appeal in writing to the office of the General Secretary of the Party, within 21 days of the date of the Committee’s decision. (3) The General Secretary shall, immediately cause the Notice of Appeal to be brought to the attention of the Appeals Tribunal for its action. (4) An appeal may be brought on grounds that: (i) a fundamental breach of the rules of procedure, due process, and/or principles of natural justice made in the investigation of the complaint and/or conduct of the hearing occurred which renders the decision unsafe; (ii) the decision is based on findings of fact that are not supported by the evidence before the Tribunal; (iii) the sanction imposed is disproportionate to the findings of misconduct; or (iv) the decision is aberrant, meaning, no reasonable Tribunal could have come to that decision in light of the evidence before the tribunal. (5) The Appeals Tribunal may uphold, vary, or overrule a decision made by the Committee or order a rehearing before a differently constituted Panel if it finds that one or more of the enumerated grounds of appeal have been made out. (6) The decision of the Appeals Tribunal shall be final and binding on Party members and shall be communicated to affected Party members in writing within fourteen (14) days of the decision being made. (7) The Committee and the Appeals Tribunal shall be at liberty to promulgate rules relating to the exercise of the jurisdiction vested to them herein. 258A. No member of the Party’s Executive Committee or National Executive Committee shall be appointed a member of the Committee 258B. The General Secretary shall cause any person whom it appoints to a Disciplinary Committee or Appels Tribunal pursuant to these provisions to execute a confidentiality agreement prior to commencement of their duties hereunder. 258C. Without prejudice to the foregoing, the Executive Committee of the Party may summarily suspend any member of the Party, pending the outcome of a disciplinary hearing, for a maximum period of six (6) months where the allegations against such member involves: a. conduct which may tend to bring the Party into disrepute; b. fraud, theft, or other act of dishonest; or c. any other form of gross misconduct.
186 258D. The party’s Executive Committee shall be entitled to extend the time for the taking of any action mentioned herein where it is satisfied that, in the circumstances, it is just and equitable to grant such extension. SCHEDULE OF DISCIPLINARY OFFENCES 1. A member of the party shall have committed a disciplinary offence if he/she shall be in breach of any of the provisions in the Party’s Code of Conduct. 2. “gross misconduct” shall mean conduct of such a nature as to cause irreparable damage to the relationship between the Party and the member such as to cause a complete loss of confidence in the individual’s suitability to be a member of the Party. The following is the recommended Code of Conduct for members of the Party :- The Peoples National Party is proud of its reputation for full and frank discussion of internal and national issues in a civil manner whilst respecting the divergent views of fellow members. In furtherance of this objective, this Code of Conduct shall regulate the behaviour of every Party member and promote good governance and the democratic process within the party. Accordingly every person in order to become and retain membership in the Party :- a. Shall uphold and strictly act in accordance with the Constitution of the Party and this Code of Conduct. b. On no account shall act in contravention of the laws of Jamaica and shall not engage in conduct tending to create tension between Party members, personal attacks, defamation, acts of deliberate misinformation, malicious statements or vulgar abuse of or against a Party member or any other person and shall make every effort to prevent members from engaging in such conduct. c. Shall strictly comply with the following social media policies, which shall govern the conduct of members in digital and online communication, including but not limited to the use of messaging platforms, social networking services and third party content. Members shall ensure that:- (i) Their postings are consistent with this Code of Conduct and are unfailingly courteous and respectful of others. (ii) They avoid making statements or using photographs, video or audio that could be reasonably regarded as malicious, obscene, intimidating, disparaging or damaging to another’s character or reputation. (iii) They avoid posts that could contribute to a hostile Party environment. (iv) They only post content that is accurate, appropriate, respectful an is not prejudicial to Party cohesion.
187 (v) They only express personal opinions for which they are willing to be held accountable. (vi) They never criticise any aspect of a member’s private life, not connected with his public activities. e No Candidate shall engage in or undertake a national media campaign or promotion, paid or otherwise, (inclusive of television, radio, newspapers, billboards and cable) of the candidacy of another political party, or encourage or condone any other person to do so. f. A starting point for all our actions as members of a party and a movement is to treat all people with dignity and respect. This applies to all our dealings with people, offline and online. Everyone should feel able to take part in discussion about the Party, country and world. Vigorous debate, including critical discussion, is to be encouraged, as long as it does not result in the exclusion of others. Abusing someone online is just as serious as doing so face to face. We stand against all forms of abuse and will take action against those who commit it. g. Generally, no member of the Party shall engage in conduct which in the opinion of the National Executive Committee (NEC) is prejudicial, or in any act which in the opinion of the NEC is detrimental to the Party. The NEC shall consider any incident which in their view might reasonably be seen to demonstrate hostility or prejudice based on disability, gender, race, religion or belief or sex as conduct prejudicial to the Party. The disclosure of confidential information relating to the Party or to any other member, unless the disclosure is duly authorized or made pursuant to a legal obligation, shall also be considered conduct prejudicial to the Party. h. Members shall utilise the internal processes and procedures provided by the Party to address complaints, protests and appeals relating to or arising from party internal matters and shall cooperate with the General Secretary in any enquiry into such complaints or protests, and shall accept the decision taken thereon and refrain from initiating or otherwise engaging in any public discourse in relation to such matters.
188 the Diaspora Region The Diaspora shall be designated the Diaspora Region 101. There shall be one Region for the Diaspora comprising of: Zone 1 - United States Division SE Division NE Division West Zone 2 – Canada Division A Division B Zone 3 – UK & Europe Division – London Division – Birmingham Division – Continent Zone 4 – Africa Zone 5 – Latin America & Caribbean Division – Latin America Division – Caribbean Zone 6 – Other 102. Notwithstanding any prior provisions in this Constitution, persons who are normally domiciled outside of Jamaica may become a Direct Diaspora Member of the Party (DDM). Such persons must be of Jamaican nationality, over the age of 18 years and must apply on the prescribed form through the Diaspora Regional Executive Council by way of their respective Zone Committee, as per the approved DDM By Rules. The approval of their application for membership shall be subject to the process as prescribed by the Party. Such approved persons will be known as Direct Diaspora Members (DDM) of the Party with all the rights and privileges assigned by the Party Constitution. 103. There shall be a Regional Executive Council (REC). The duties of the Diaspora Region REC shall include the following: a) to maintain stable Zone organizations and to report to the National Executive Council (NEC) on the state of the Zones; (b) to be responsible for training of Zone, Division and Group Officers; (c) to ensure that the DDM and the general public within each Zone are constantly and properly kept informed on Party and government programmes, policies and initiatives; (d) to ensure that the DDM and the general public are constantly engaged in discussions for the purpose of mass involvement in Party policy formulation;
189 (e) to make submissions to National Executive Council and its various committees; (f) to assist in fund-raising ventures and to ensure stable financing of Party organizations; (g) to settle disputes within each Zone and, where necessary, make recommendations to the Executive Committee in Jamaica and the Diaspora Region’s Internal Affairs Committee composed of a member from each Zone; (h) to receive, discuss and submit resolutions to the National Executive Council and Annual National Conference; Annual Diaspora Regional Conference 104. The Diaspora Region shall hold an Annual Regional Conference of Direct Diaspora Members, at which the Members shall elect representatives to the National Executive Council on the ratio of one representative for each Zone within the Region plus the Regional Chairman shall be a representative to the NEC. The Annual Regional Conference shall be held in early June and any other month as may be determined by the Region and or the Executive Committee and must accommodate remote attendance and remote voting; 105. The Diaspora Region shall, at the Annual Regional Conference, elect its Regional Chairman who shall also be the Region’s representative to sit on the Party’s Executive Committee. Regional Executive Council 106. There shall be a Regional Executive Council, under the chairmanship of the Regional Chairman, and the other officers shall be elected annually by the Direct Diaspora Members at the June Annual Regional Conference; 107. The Regional Executive Council shall hold a minimum of four meetings per year. Meetings shall be held once every quarter and must accommodate remote attendance; 108. Regional Executive Council shall appoint an attorney-at law to be known as the Regional Legal Advisor and who shall also be an Officer of the Regional Executive Council; 109. The Regional Legal Advisor shall be appointed annually by the Regional Executive Council and such appointment should take place at its June Annual meeting. 110. Composition of the Diaspora Regional Executive Council The membership of the Diaspora Regional Executive Council shall consist of: (a) A Regional Chairman; (b) A Regional Vice Chair per Zone who shall be the Zone Chair; (c) A maximum of two additional associate Vice Chairs responsible for: recruitment & membership; outreach & political organization/education/training; diaspora election and engagement/management; and any other portfolio responsibility as determined by the Regional Executive Council;
190 (d) Each Zone Secretary; (e) A Regional Secretary; (f) A Regional Treasurer; (g) A Regional Legal Advisor, who shall be appointed by the Regional Executive Council as set out in Clauses 108, 109; (h) All NEC Members elected at the Annual Regional Conference on the basis of one NEC representative per Zone within the Diaspora Region; (i) All National Executive Council members in the Region; (j) The Regional Executive Council may invite and or co-opt a maximum of two persons with voting rights, with special skillsets to carry out the mission of the Diaspora Region; And where possible, i. A minimum of one representative of the PNP Youth Organization and not more than one from each Zone within the Region – which representative must be a member of the People’s National Party; ii. A minimum of one representative of the PNP Women’s Movement on the basis of not more than one from each Zone within the Region - which representative must be a member of the People’s National Party; iii. A minimum of one representative of the PNP Patriots on the basis of not more than one from each Zone within the Region - which representative must be a member of the People’s National Party; iv. A minimum of one representative of the overseas affiliate the Jamaica Progressive League – which representative must be a member of the People’s National Party; v. A minimum of one representative of the overseas affiliate the PNP – UK – which representative must be a member of the People’s National Party. 111. The Diaspora Region shall establish a Disciplinary and Internal Affairs Committee in collaboration with the Party Secretariat and as set out in the Bylaws at the first Regional Executive Council meeting after its Annual Regional Conference or at its first Regional Executive Council meeting, subject to Clause 113. Training and Development, Appraisal and Performance, Discipline 112. The Regional Organization, in collaboration with the Party Secretariat and the Political Education Commission, shall be responsible for the training of members of the Political organization/engagement/training subcommittee. Members of this subcommittee shall have political organizational experience in their various overseas locations and or Jamaican political organizational experience and use this experience for the benefit of the Party. All the officers of the Diaspora Region must
191 participate in a minimum of one political education seminar per year to be eligible to be re-nominated for any position as an officer at their respective level. 113. Regional Officers shall elect the Chairman and members of the Regional Disciplinary and Internal Affairs Committee, the minimum being three and a maximum of seven members. Such members must possess experience in law, mediation, grievance procedures, arbitration or similar background and be of high reputational integrity to be eligible. Such membership on the IAC must be ratified by the Regional Executive Council. 114. All meetings of the Diaspora Region shall take into consideration geographic locations and may be conducted electronically, in person or hybrid. The Diaspora Zone Organization 201. A Zone Organization and Zone Committees shall be established in all Diaspora Zones in the Diaspora Region as referred to in Clause 101 – “Diaspora Region”; and shall consist of Direct Diaspora Members who are not resident in Jamaica. 202. The Zones in the Diaspora Region shall be further divided into Divisions as referred in Clause 101. 203. Application for direct membership to the Party shall be made through an individual’s respective Zone Committee. 204. Meetings of the Zone Committees shall be held at least quarterly, with a minimum of four meetings annually. The quorum for the meeting shall be one-quarter plus one of the membership, and all meetings must accommodate remote attendance. Annual Zone Conference 205. There shall be an Annual Zone Conference, which shall be held in each Zone within the period of April to May of each year, or as decided by the Regional Executive Council or the Party’s Executive Committee. Zone Conferences may be conducted electronically, in person or hybrid. 206. It shall be the duty of the Zone Committee to formally notify in writing or electronically, to the Regional Executive Council, to all Direct Members, Affiliates and Party Groups within a Zone of the summoning of a Zone Conference at least fourteen clear days before the holding of the Conference. 207. At the Annual Zone Conference all persons who are registered and are financial members of the Party in the Zone, as determined by the Party’s Register, shall be delegates in their own right, thereby entitling them to participate and vote. 208. Each registered Party Group shall forward an annual report to the Zone Conference on the prescribed Annual Group Report Form, detailing the work of the Party Group and such report shall include the following: (a) the number of Group meetings held during the period;
192 (b) the Group’s recruitment of new members; (c) its political education programme; (d) payment of subscriptions and fund raising; (e) community work and outreach; (f) participation in and relationship with the Divisional and Regional structures; (g) relationship with the Party’s International and Diaspora Affairs Commission; (h) other Group activities; (i) concerns and recommendations. 209. The Zone Conference shall receive a full written report, prepared on the prescribed Party Form, detailing the work of the PNP Women’s Movement , The PNP Patriots PNP Youth Organization within the Zones relating to: (a) the number of meetings held; (b) recruitment of new members; (c) its political education programme; (d) special programmes for women, young professionals and youth; (e) participation in and relationship with the Divisional organizations; (f) Relationship with the Party’s International & Diaspora Commission; (g) payment of subscriptions and fund raising; (h) community work and outreach; (i) other activities; (j) concerns and recommendations; 210. Unless a postponement for the holding of the Annual Zone Conference is requested by the Zone Committee and is specifically approved by the Diaspora Regional Executive Council, the Annual ZoneConference shall be held as prescribed in clause 205. The Zone Committee 211. The Zone Committee shall have as officers, a Zone Chairman, two Vice Chairmen, a Secretary and a Treasurer. Additionally, each Division in the Zone shall have a representative on the Zone Committee. The Committee shall be elected at the Annual Zone Conference. One Vice Chairman shall be assigned responsibilities for Membership and Diaspora voting matters, and one Vice Chairman assigned responsibilities for community outreach and recruitment. 212. The Zone Committee may co-opt a maximum of five members and those members shall be voting members on the Diaspora Zone Committee. 213. The PNP Women’s Movement, the PNP Patriots the PNP Youth Organization, and each recognized Party Affiliate in the Diaspora shall each be entitled to have two representatives on each Zone Committee. 214. The Zone Committee shall meet at least four times per year. Mandatory meetings are required in the months of February, April, August, and October in each year.
193 Responsibilities of the Zone Chairman 215. The Zone Chairman shall be responsible for securing: (a) full compliance with the Constitution and Rules of the Party and its democratic principles and practices; (b) the building and maintenance of strong and stable organizations; (c) maintaining contact and building effective relationships with all the Zone Divisions Party Groups, Affiliates and Direct Diaspora Members. The Diaspora Divisional Organization 301. The Diaspora Divisional Organizations shall be geographic in nature as stated in Clause 101 (Diaspora Region) with, Zone 1 having 3 Divisions, Zone 2 having 2 Divisions, Zone 3 having 3 Divisions, Zone 4 having 1 Division, Zone 5 having 2 Divisions; and Zone 6 having1 Division. Annual Divisional Conference 302. In every Diaspora Division, an Annual Divisional Conference shall be held, at which a Divisional Chairman, two (2) Vice-Chairmen, Secretary, Treasurer, representative to the Diaspora Zone Committee and not more than five other members shall be elected to form a Divisional Committee and such elected persons shall have the right to participate in and vote at Divisional Conferences. 303. It shall be the duty of the Diaspora Divisional Committee in each Division to convene an Annual Divisional Conference and to submit a report thereon to the Diaspora Regional Executive Committee and the respective Zone Committee. 304. It shall be the duty of the Divisional Committee to formally notify the Diaspora Regional Executive Committee, the respective Zone Committee, all Direct Diaspora Members and all registered Party Groups and Affiliates within its Division of the convening of a Divisional Conference at least fourteen (14) clear days before the holding of the Divisional Conference and shall also submit in writing to the Diaspora Regional Executive Committee and the respective Zone Committee a list of the officers and Divisional Committee members elected, within fourteen (14) days after the Divisional Conference. 305. Unless a written request for postponement is specifically approved by the Diaspora Regional Committee, the Annual Divisional Conference shall be held prior to the Annual Party Conference. 306. Two (2) Vice Chairmen shall be elected at the Divisional Conference, one Vice Chairman having specific responsibility for political education and leadership training and the other having specific responsibility for Diaspora membership and Diaspora voting matters.
194 307. In the event of failure to elect a Divisional Committee, the Diaspora Regional Executive Committee shall appoint a Provisional Divisional Committee for the political year. The Divisional Committee and Functions 308. Meetings of the Divisional Committee shall be held at least six times during the political year, at least one meeting being held each quarter. 309. In every Division, an Annual Divisional Conference shall be held between the months of June and August and no later than the date of the Annual National Conference for that year, at which a Divisional Chairman, two Vice-Chairmen, Secretary, Treasurer, and not more than five other members shall be elected to form a Divisional Committee. The members elected shall have the right to participate in and vote at Divisional Conferences. The Divisional Chairman shall be the representative to the Diaspora Zone Committee. 310. It shall be the duty of the Divisional Committee to formally notify in writing, by letter or electronic communication the respective Diaspora Zone Committee, the Diaspora Regional Committee and all the registered Direct Diaspora Members Party Groups and Affiliates within that Division of the convening of a Divisional Conference at least fourteen (14) clear days before the holding of the Conference. 311. The Divisional Committee shall submit to the Party Secretariat, the respective Zone Secretary, and the Diaspora Regional Secretary within fourteen (14) days of their election a list of the Officers and Divisional Committee members elected. 312. The Divisional Committee may co-opt Direct Diaspora Region members provided that the right to vote shall be limited to five persons. 313. The PNP Women’s Movement and the PNP Youth Organization Patriots & overseas Affiliates shall each be entitled to have one representative on each Divisional Committee, who is a Direct Diasporamember. Eligibility 314. No person shall hold any office in a Diaspora Divisional Organization or be eligible to serve on a Divisional Committee or as a representative to the Regional Zone Committee or Regional Executive Committee unless he/she is a Direct Diaspora financial member and any person ceasing to be a member in good standing shall cease to hold office.
195 Direct Diaspora Membership Eligibility 1. Persons domiciled overseas eligible (not students or those on temporary visas) for overseas membership. • NB: Permanent Residents of the United States should be aware that membership in a political organization is reviewed when they apply for US citizenship 2. Applicants shall provide evidence of Jamaican citizenship/ Jamaican Passport 3. Applicants shall provide proof of residency overseas (e.g., Foreign National ID/Driver’s License, utilities) 4. Applicants shall provide the attestation of two existing members of the PNP, in good standing for consideration of membership and such process is initiated via the Zone Committee 5. The Secretariat approves applications as per existing process 6. Each Diaspora Vote cast in internal Party elections is equal to 25% of a vote cast by Jamaican direct members in all eligible internal Party elections. 7. Recommended annual dues for Direct Diaspora membership is $100US or its equivalent payable to the Party’s treasury. 8. Dedicated Administrator (funded by the Diaspora from the dues paid) to manage Diaspora affairs at the Secretariat. 9. A member of the PNP and person on the Jamaica’s voter’s list can still join the Diaspora Region but they cannot vote twice
196 Resolution To Mandate The Submission Of A Work Plan By Officers Of The Party Within 30 Days Of Taking Office Each Officer of the Party shall, within 30 days of being assigned the responsibilities of their portfolio, submit to the Organising Commission of the Party, a clear work plan for the ensuing political year, with attendant targets and timelines for approval. The Organising Commission, through the General Secretary shall write to any person in breach of this submission. Where the matter is not remedied in the period prescribed by the Organising Commission, the office holder may be suspended until the breach is remedied. RESOLUTION FOR DEFINED NOMINATION PERIOD FOR REGIONAL CONFERENCES IN THE PEOPLE’S NATIONAL PARTY Nomination for Regional Chairman and NEC membership at the Annual Regional Conferences shall be opened at least 14 days before the date of the Annual Regional Conference and shall close 7 days prior to the date of the of the Annual Conference. Nominations can come from any financial member within the Party. They shall be nominated by two financial members of the Party from the Region in which they wish to be nominated. Nominations shall be done on a prescribed form prepared by the Secretariat and submitted to the Regional Secretary and the General Secretary. The Party’s Secretariat shall be responsible for the election process which involves the preparation of the list of delegates, the rules governing the elections and the conducting of the elections themselves. The processes may be signed off on by the Executive Committee. Resolution on Special Membership rights to the NEC for Councillors A member of the Party who has served for 20 years or more as a Councillor for the People’s National Party and who has retired from that position shall, upon the recommendation of the Officers of the Party to, and acceptance by, the National Executive Council, have membership rights on the National Executive Council for a period of ten years. Review Of Party Commissions The names of the Commissions of the Party shall be, in no particular order: 1. Organising Commission 2. Internal Affairs Commission 3. International and Diaspora Affairs Commission 4. Policy and Vision Commission
197 5. Political Education and Training Commission 6. Human Rights Commission 7. Culture and Heritage Commission 8. Finance and Fundraising Commission 9. Gender Commission 10. Communications Commission 11. Welfare Commission 12. Outreach and Heritage Commission Commissions will have a tenure of 2 years Commission Chairmen shall be members of the National Executive Council, in their own right. MEMBERSHIP - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS. NEW: The Executive Committee shall establish a Membership Committee as set out the Bylaws to manage all matters relating to membership. A representative of the Regional Management Committee shall be present when dealing with matters relating to membership from the respective Region. The Party’s Executive Committee shall develop an appropriate programme of orientation for new members so that all new members can complete the orientation process within seven (7) months. This Orientation Programme approved by the NEC, shall be set out in the Bylaws and shall be reviewed at least once every two years. DIRECT APPLICATION - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS NEW: A member who is more than seven month in arrears shall be deemed to be non-financial and if the full backsubscription is not paid within two months, then that members membership shall be terminated and will have to reapply to the Party though the established procedures. The member may receive a warning from the Secretariat at the end of the seven month period. Subscription for direct membership to be prorated in the first instance to the end of the current calendar year; and all direct members required to renew their annual subscription within the first quarter of each calendar year. 22. These rights, as specified in Clause 21 shall be suspended if the member fails to pay the prescribed subscription, or fails to attend such minimum number of meetings as may be determined from time to time by Annual Conference and set out in the Bylaws. Constitution is silent – Needs to be written in Bylaws - Suggesting participation of at least one Assembly of Direct Members over a two year period. THE PNP YOUTH ORGANIZATION - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 28. Persons upon reaching the age of fifteen shall be eligible to join the PNP Youth Organization and shall undertake and agree to be bound by and conform to the programme and policies of the Party based on the principles of Democratic Socialism and to the Constitution, Bylaws and the Standing Orders of the Party.
198 Proposed Amendment: Upon reaching the prescribed voting age of eighteen. All members within six month of becoming eligible must take step to be registered and enumerated. FINANCIAL SUBSCRIPTION - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 32. The Executive Committee shall, once in every two years, review the amount of financial subscription and report its recommendations to Annual Conference, for the following categories: THE PARTY GROUP - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 43. Meetings of members shall be held at least once per quarter. A minimum of four Group Meetings are required per political year, starting after the Annual National Conference each year. THE APPROVAL PROCESS - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 54. The maximum number of Groups to be registered in each constituency shall not exceed the number of polling divisions within the constituency. The ‘area’ to be covered by each Group shall be decided by the Constituency Committee where necessary, or in default, by the Executive Committee of the Party Proposed that: The maximum number of Groups to be registered in each constituency shall not exceed the number of polling stations within the constituency. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 61. The Secretary or a designated officer of the Group shall give the members at least fourteen days’ notice in writing or electronic messaging, of the convening of the Annual General Meeting. In the event of the failure of the Group to convene the AGM and so indicate a date to the constituency committee by the 21st March annually, the Constituency Committee shall be authorized to set the date of the AGM with a minimum of seven days’ notice and to manage the AGM. RATIONALE: The Group should not lose eligibility for delegate status or its members penalized because the Chairman or Secretary for whatever reasons are unable to, or refuse to convene the AGM. REPORTS AND CATEGORIZATION OF GROUPS - APPROVED AS IS NEW: The Central Party Office will provide National Executive Council with a national group status report at NEC Meetings in November, January, March and July of each year. SUBSCRIPTION OF MEMBERS AND GROUP - APPROVED BY NEC AS IS 83. If a Group fails for a period of seven consecutive months to make the remittances in respect of obligatory subscriptions required by the provisions of Clause 33 and 34 for at least six (6) members, the Central Office of the Party shall give notice in writing of such failure to the Secretary of the Constituency Committee in whose area the Group is situated or, where no Constituency Committee is established, directly to the Group. Proposed Amendment: It shall be the responsibility of the Central Officeof the Party and Constituency Secretary to advise Groups in writing of their financial standings and status with the Party