New Energy Minister promises complete transparency

Danae Hyman, Online Reporter

The newly appointed energy minister Fayval Williams is promising complete transparency in the portfolio dogged by the Petrojam scandal.

Williams, who also has responsibility for science and technology, says transparency is vital to restore Jamaican’s hope and trust in state entities. 

The minister said Petrojam will be among her first order of business and she is starting with the board.

But according to Williams, the nominations and selection of board members will be transparent.

"We have to complete the ownership structure of Petrojam and make those decisions that need to be made so we give the people of Jamaica assurance that together with the new Permanent Secretary, we will go in and restore their trust and confidence in the institution," she said. 

On her first day as Energy Minister, Williams attended the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament for the new legislative year. 

The minister says she is very aware of the vast importance of Petrojam. 

"It is an institution that Jamaicans are looking to have their faith and trust restored in and we are looking to do that and to ensure that Petrojam, one of our most significant assets for our people gains it back. I am ready to go in and do the work with frequent communication with the people of Jamaica,” Williams said.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced yesterday that Permanent Secretary Carol Palmer will be reassigned from the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Energy, Science and Technology. 

Holness assumed responsibility for the energy portfolio eight months ago with the resignation of Dr Andrew Wheatley over issues of corruption at the state-owed oil refinery.

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