Dr Christopher Tufton has responded to his name being cleared at the end of a multi-year Integrity Commission probe into the award of a $15 million contract to Market Me, which is headed by his acquaintance Lyndsey McDonnough.

“I acknowledge the release of the Integrity Commission’s (IC) report and welcome its conclusions,” Tufton said in a statement on the probe that was triggered by the awarding of a contract to Market Me in 2016 regarding the Jamaica Moves physical fitness campaign under the Ministry of Health.

“This matter has remained in the public domain for several years and, at times, has cast unfair doubt not only on my own integrity but also on the reputations of others involved, including members of the Ministry and legitimate contractors,” Tufton said.

“I regret any hurt or reputational damage that may have resulted from the prolonged public scrutiny,” he said.

Director of Investigation Kevon Stephenson said he saw no evidence to indicate that Tufton was directly involved in the award of the $15.8 million contract to Market Me.

Still, Tufton was criticised for not disclosing his relationship with McDonnough, especially after ministry officials confirmed that Tufton introduced Market Me.

“Neither Dr Tufton nor McDonnough made formal declarations of conflict as required under the rules governing conflict of interest and broader governance best practice. Whilst others may have known of the connection between the parties (Dr Tufton and McDonnough and/or McDonnough and Market Me), they (Dr Tufton and McDonnough) both had a responsibility to have made formal declarations of conflict at the appropriate times and recuse themselves from any involvement which could be deemed or perceived to be a conflict of interest,” Stephenson said.

The investigation found that 15 contracts valued at $78,579,522.49 were awarded to Market Me between 2016 and 2021. Fourteen of them were issued by the Health Ministry and one by the National Family Planning Board.

In his statement on Tuesday, Tufton said: “I am, however, pleased that the IC has reported no illegality by any party involved, and I am relieved that the report brings clarity to the facts.

“Throughout this process, I have remained focused on fulfilling my duties as Minister of Health & Wellness and on advancing the public health agenda in the best interest of the Jamaican people.

“The Commission’s findings have helped to clarify the facts and put to rest years of speculation, allowing the public to have a clear and accurate understanding of the matter.

“I respect the processes now before the Speaker of the House and shall remain committed to serving with integrity, accountability, and an unwavering focus on national development.”