Jamaica signs US memorandum to accept third-country nationals amid migration talks

National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has outlined Jamaica’s role in a United States programme to receive third-country nationals, saying an agreement is in place but practical hurdles still block its launch.

Speaking at Wednesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Dr. Chang said the Government was not forced by Washington to take part. The United States approached Jamaica as part of efforts to manage its migration pressures, and Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, agreed as an ally.

“This is an American request. They have done so with several of their allies across the region and, in short, the world. It is their challenge that they are trying to resolve in a human way. They are our friend and they are seeking our assistance to resolve the problem,” he said.

Asked what Jamaica gains from the deal, Dr. Chang rejected the premise. “The idea of what we get out of it is not a relevant question. America, as I said, is one of our strongest bilateral partners. We have multiple state of agreements, understandings, exchanges in all areas. It’s not something we discuss. We do this today, we do that for you tomorrow. That’s not a practice of any healthy bilateral relationship.”

He said non-nationals would remain in Jamaica only briefly before moving on to their home countries, though there is no guarantee they will reach their intended destinations. Most return home, but some may choose to stay. He put the return rate at about 94%, noting that when deportees from Jamaica or other countries refuse to go back, the count for the next shipment is reduced accordingly. If an entire group of 25 opted to remain, he said, the programme would stop immediately.

Dr. Chang said arrivals could come from the Caribbean and elsewhere, with English speakers and people with skills given preference. “Primary criteria we established that they should speak English. We are putting nothing else on it. We would prefer if the people have skills and if they can speak English, it makes it easier to come to Jamaica.”

The Government signed the arrangement with the United States last week, but talks continue. A key outstanding issue is where the non-nationals will be housed. Dr. Chang said officials must work with the International Organization for Migration to secure suitable accommodation, and Jamaica cannot receive anyone until that is settled.