Readers’ reactions

TCNs arriving under US deal granted visitor status, freedom of movement in Jamaica

Jamaica needs a dual growth strategy. Welcome skilled global talent and entrepreneurs to fight population decline and boost our economy. Concurrently, raise local wages, step up training, and expand affordable housing to stem our own ‘brain drain’. - @LodricAtkinson

This is absolutely and totally outrageous! When are Jamaicans going to unite and take a stand against this Government! - @magickcourier

Under the Jamaica–US TCN (Third Country National) agreement, if 10 individuals apply to remain in Jamaica through asylum or other humanitarian procedures, the programme will be suspended. Furthermore, applying for asylum does not automatically mean approval or guarantee the right to remain in Jamaica. There is a legal process, and each application must be assessed on its own merit. The right to apply is not the same as the right to stay. - @talkmimind16

I write with deep concern and frustration regarding the recent arrangement involving third-country nationals coming to Jamaica from the United States. Jamaica is a developing nation where too many citizens are already struggling to make ends meet. Our public services —healthcare, education, and social support — are stretched to their absolute limits. When hardworking Jamaicans cannot adequately look after their own families, it is completely unacceptable and disheartening to see our authorities agree to shoulder external burdens. The questions every citizen should be asking are: Who truly benefits from this arrangement? Who is getting paid? And, why are the struggles of everyday Jamaicans being sidelined?

We cannot afford to be a revolving door for international policies when our own people are crying out for relief and better living conditions. We need real transparency, and we need our leaders to prioritise local needs above all else. Jamaicans should be paying close attention, speaking out, and demanding accountability before decisions are made that permanently impact our future. Change has to happen, and it starts with our voices being heard. - Concerned Citizen (@mam_nyc)

Readers’ reactions sourced from The Gleaner’s X and Instagram pages. Compiled by Khanique McDaniel.