Financial Crime World

Gazetting of Regulations to Public Bodies Management Accountability Act

Deadline Set for End of Q3 2020

The Government has announced that it will establish a special task force by the end of Quarter Three (Q3) 2020 to review and gazette regulations under the Public Bodies Management Accountability Act, which governs the nomination, selection, and appointment of Boards of Public Bodies. The task force will also focus on ensuring state resources are not diverted to organized crime or corruption, review the Bribery Act, and make further recommendations.

Key Decisions

The National Consensus on Crime has agreed to actively participate in several key legislative reforms, including:

  • Delivery of new Enhanced Security Measures Act (ESMA) by Q1 2021
  • Review of all security-related legislations by end of Q2 2021
  • Expiration of JCF modernization by TBA
  • Alignment of Justice system capacities and capabilities with expected outcomes
  • Enhancing Correctional Services department with focus on rehabilitation, health, education, and personal development of offenders

Implementation Timeline

The implementation timeline for these key decisions includes:

  • Q1 2021: Delivery of new ESMA, amendments to Firearm Act, and new anti-gang legislation
  • Q2 2021: Review of all security-related legislations, establishment of process for performance management and accountability in Justice system, and consultations with Custodes and JP’s towards tabling recommendations for expanding the roles of Justices of the Peace
  • Q3 2021: Strengthening witness protection and anonymity legislation
  • Q4 2020: Establishment of review team to present standards for Jamaica’s Correctional Services facilities and human capacity requirements
  • Q1 2021: Development of costed and phased plan for review on physical improvement and/or replacement of all prisons and lockups
  • Q4 2021: Development of national Land Use policy

Commitment to Transparency

The Government has committed to providing regular public updates on the implementation of this programme, and has established a Consensus Monitoring and Oversight Committee to ensure transparency and accountability. The committee will be responsible for monitoring progress, identifying areas of concern, and making recommendations for improvement.

Partnership

The National Consensus on Crime has brought together representatives from various sectors, including:

  • Government
  • Opposition
  • Private sector
  • Trade unions
  • Churches
  • Women’s groups
  • Manufacturers
  • Exporters
  • MSMEs
  • Small business owners
  • Chambers of commerce
  • Youth groups
  • Violence prevention organizations

This partnership aims to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing crime in Jamaica.

Conclusion

The gazetting of regulations under the Public Bodies Management Accountability Act is a significant step towards strengthening governance and accountability in Jamaica. The implementation of these key decisions will require a collaborative effort from all stakeholders involved. The National Consensus on Crime has demonstrated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and partnership in addressing crime in Jamaica.