PNP demands answers on Morrison transfer

The Opposition People's National Party (PNP) is demanding an explanation from the Government for the reassignment of Darlene Morrison as financial secretary in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, questioning the timing of the move and whether it amounts to a demotion.

Morrison was transferred to the newly created Ministry of Mining and Geology, effective today, with Lorris Jarrett named as her successor as financial secretary.

The PNP said the move was particularly troubling because it came during the annual Budget Call process, when continuity and stability at the Ministry of Finance are considered critical.

The party also questioned whether Morrison's reassignment was connected to recent comments by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness alleging that unnamed public servants were sabotaging the Government.

Opposition Spokesperson on Finance Julian Robinson said the Government must disclose whether Morrison had been accused of wrongdoing, whether an investigation had been conducted and what evidence, if any, informed the decision to transfer her.

Robinson noted that Morrison had served at the Ministry of Finance for more than 37 years, including eight years as Financial Secretary, under successive administrations.

“Ms Morrison has served over 37 years at the Ministry of Finance, including eight years as financial secretary, under successive administrations. She was at the ministry’s head during the touted economic and fiscal improvements, so what then explains this reassignment? What are the real reasons for this demotion?” he asked.

He also questioned whether there had been a breakdown in relations between Morrison and the finance minister, and whether she had raised concerns about the powers of the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) and possible conflicts with the Financial Administration and Audit Act.

Robinson further questioned whether the creation of the new ministry was intended to facilitate Morrison's transfer and avoid legal action similar to that brought by a former permanent secretary.

The PNP argued that the reassignment amounted to a demotion, pointing to the respective salary grades of the positions. It said the Financial Secretary and Cabinet Secretary are classified at Executive Management Group (EMG) 6, while permanent secretaries are at EMG 5.

The party said the transfer of a senior public officer without a charge or hearing raised questions about the treatment of career public servants and the Government's responsibility to provide a clear justification for decisions affecting the highest levels of the public service.

It also questioned the financial implications of establishing a new ministry, arguing that the decision appeared inconsistent with the Government's stated commitment to controlling expenditure.

“Jamaicans deserve clarity, not concealment,” Robinson said.

The PNP is calling on the prime minister and minister of finance to explain the circumstances surrounding Morrison's reassignment and provide full disclosure of the reasons for the decision.

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