The Jamaica Umbrella Groups of Churches (JUGC) notes that the proposed National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) framework has been widely ventilated in Parliament, in the media, and among citizens across the country.

We acknowledge the Government’s stated intention to strengthen Jamaica’s capacity to respond quickly and effectively to disasters, emergencies, and urgent national development needs. We also note that concerns raised by various stakeholders have received attention during the parliamentary process, and that amendments have been made to address some of these issues.

The Church’s interest in this matter is rooted in our desire for the best for Jamaica. We want to see our country recover quickly from crises, build stronger communities, and advance development in ways that serve the common good, especially the poor, the vulnerable, and communities most affected by disaster and neglect.

We therefore welcome the attention that has been given to matters of accountability, transparency, oversight, and public reporting. These are important principles in any democratic society, particularly where public resources and urgent national action are involved.

At the same time, we believe that continued clarity and vigilance will be important as the NaRRA framework is finalised and implemented. Public confidence will be strengthened where there is clear communication, responsible oversight, transparent reporting, and respect for affected communities.

In the interest of public confidence, the JUGC respectfully raises the following questions for further clarification and consideration:

Questions for Further Clarification

In light of the amendments already made and the explanations offered by the Government, the JUGC respectfully raises the following remaining questions for further clarification and public assurance:

1. Since the Government has opted for JAMRROC and parliamentary reporting rather than a governing board, what additional safeguards will ensure that NaRRA’s CEO and executive structure are subject to strong, independent, and continuous oversight
2. Why has JAMRROC not been given a statutory footing in the Bill itself, with a defined composition, mandatory meeting schedule, clear reporting obligations, and protected tenure?
3. Where approved reconstruction or strategic investment projects are exempted from aspects of the Public Investment Management System, what alternative appraisal process will ensure value for money, proper risk assessment, and responsible use of public funds?
4. How will the confidentiality provisions be balanced with the need to protect persons who make legitimate disclosures about corruption, waste, abuse, safety risks, or threats to the public interest
5. While the Government has pointed to safeguards such as expert advice and notice to approving entities, what assurance can be given that affected communities will still have meaningful access to due process, environmental protection, and, where necessary, judicial review?
6. What safeguards will prevent the “strategic investment” designation from expanding NaRRA beyond its emergency reconstruction and resilience purpose, especially for non-emergency projects above the US$15 million threshold?
7. Since NaRRA is described as a temporary mechanism, what clear timetable, review process, or sunset arrangement will ensure that extraordinary powers do not become part of Jamaica’s permanent governance structure?

Our Call to Action

The JUGC therefore calls on the Government to ensure that the final NaRRA framework gives clear assurance regarding oversight, value for money, whistleblower protection, public consultation, judicial review, and limits on extraordinary powers.

We respectfully call for the Government to:

1. Establish a Statutory Multi-Sectoral Governing Board to provide oversight and fiduciary responsibility.
2. Reinstate PIMS Appraisals for all non-emergency strategic investments to ensure value for money.
3. Amend Secrecy Clauses to include robust whistleblower protections in line with the Protected Disclosures Act.
4. Ensure Judicial Review and Public Consultation are preserved, especially when “Step-in Orders” affect the environmental and social rights of communities.

The Church remains committed to the resilience and progress of Jamaica. True resilience cannot be built on weakened accountability, but on the firm foundation of integrity, transparency, and justice. We pray that our leaders will exercise wisdom and discernment in crafting laws that not only advance national development but also safeguard the rights, dignity, and welfare of the most vulnerable among us.