Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith has reiterated the government’s commitment to deploy additional troops to Haiti.

“You would be aware that Jamaica deployed our initial command contingent on the 12th of September and I can reiterate that we will honour our commitment although the matter of timing of our phased deployment and that of the CARICOM joint task force has been under review due to circumstances,” she said.

She gave the update while speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, October 9.

The foreign affairs minister said Jamaica continues to advocate for continued and additional support from the international community for the work of the United Nations multinational security mission to Haiti.

She said additional funding will help to support additional countries sending security personnel to build out the security force on the ground.

Last month, Jamaica sent 20 soldiers and four police officers to Haiti to work alongside the Kenyan police and Haitian police providing command, planning and logistical support.

The country originally pledged 170 soldiers and 30 police officers to help fight gangs in Haiti.