Durrant Pate/Contributor

The administrators of Jamaica’s Houses of Parliament were grilled today by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the legislature, which sought answers regarding widespread financial breaches uncovered in a recent Auditor General (A.G.) Special Audit Report.

The PAC, which is one of Parliament’s Sessional Select Committees and plays a critical role in examining the stewardship of public funds and strengthening financial accountability across public bodies, is putting the operations of the administrative arm of Jamaica’s legislature under intense scrutiny, given the breaches uncovered in the A.G.’s report, which was tabled on December 9, 2025.

Led by Clerk to the Houses of Parliament, Colleen Lowe, the parliamentary administrators, supported by senior technical and administrative personnel from the relevant functional areas, were pounded with questions by the PAC members on the procurement breaches, asset management issues, financial reporting failures and irregular contracts uncovered in the special audit.

Reaffirming parliament’s commitment to transparency and accountability, 

Speaking following the appearance,  Lowe reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional renewal, saying, “The engagement with the Public Accounts Committee was both necessary and constructive. It provided an important opportunity to place the facts on record and to demonstrate the deliberate steps now being taken to strengthen governance, improve controls, and ensure full compliance with the Government of Jamaica’s financial and administrative frameworks.” 

Since the audit, the Houses of Parliament have embarked on a clear programme of reform aimed at strengthening internal systems and restoring public confidence. These measures include the establishment of an Audit Committee to enhance oversight and accountability, improvements to procurement planning and budget management, and the implementation of more rigorous fleet management and asset control arrangements under the direct supervision of a newly appointed Transport Manager. Together, these actions reflect a renewed institutional focus on discipline, compliance, and good governance.

Moving decisively in a new direction 

Lowe emphasised that the organisation is moving decisively in a new direction. “Under the current administration, the Houses of Parliament have had to confront and stabilise longstanding operational weaknesses, while simultaneously laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient systems. The focus is firmly on strengthening integrity, improving efficiency, and rebuilding public trust. This period represents one of renewal and reform, with the supporting staff fully engaged in driving meaningful and sustainable change,” she declared in a press statement issued this afternoon.

 Key findings from December 2025

Some of the key findings from December 2025 include: 

• Procurement Breaches: A special audit revealed that a J$24-million contract for renovating the Parliament’s members’ lounge was signed after works were substantially completed. Additionally, a J$1-million discount offered by a bidder was accepted on the day of evaluation, which violated procurement guidelines, as such discounts should be disclosed at the bid opening.
• Asset Management Issues: A senior official (facilities and operations manager) was flagged for using a government vehicle for 173 days for personal purposes, with the vehicle parked at their home rather than the Parliament. It was also found that a security card for the former Clerk to Parliament remained active for two months after her retirement.
• Financial Reporting Failures: The Auditor General noted that the Houses of Parliament failed to submit appropriation accounts for six consecutive fiscal years, spanning 2018-2019 to 2024-2025.
• Irregular Contracts: A J$3-million contract for purchasing air conditioners was implemented without a formal needs assessment or the required minimum of three quotes.
• Other Potential Breaches: Investigations have highlighted concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and violations of the Financial Administration and Audit Act.