Robert Montague, Member of Parliament for St Mary Western, has called on Jamaicans to rally behind the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) as it seeks a third consecutive term in government, citing both ongoing progress and ambitious plans for the country’s future.

Montague urged citizens to continue supporting the Andrew Holness-led administration, noting that the government has delivered on many promises but still has more work to complete. “As we come towards the end of one term and look towards a new term, we come to you seeking your support,” he said. “We acknowledge that there are still challenges and issues, but Andrew Michael Holness, our leader and Prime Minister, has a history of completing commitments.”

He continued by emphasising Holness’s connection with the people, especially those from humble beginnings. “We also know that Andrew is a youth from Spanish Town. He has walked your journey. He understands your pain, your struggles, and he wants you to succeed. You know that Andrew cares for you, so he needs you, and he needs one more term to continue doing the things to improve your life, your community, and your family,” Montague added while speaking to supporters at the Jamaica Labour Party Mass Rally on Sunday, August 10.

Montague reassured supporters that the JLP remains grounded and committed to service. “That is why we will always humbly ask, appeal, even beg for your support. We do not take your support lightly. We value your support. We will work for your support. We have earned your support, and we treasure your support. We are not like others who think they are entitled, so they do not have to tell you what their plans are.

Highlighting the party’s responsiveness to the feedback, Montague added, “But we in the Labour Party listen to you and make adjustments based on your suggestion. We have worked hard on your behalf, and you have seen the results.”

Plans for the third term

Looking ahead, Montague outlined a range of plans that the JLP intends to implement if given the mandate for a third term, particularly in rural development and the use of technology.

“We must unite and face the future. We must embrace new thoughts and ideas, look afresh at old methods, and support Andrew Holness when critics say we cannot do what we must do. We are Jamaicans, proud and strong. It is that creative spirit, that boldness, that has led us to where we are.”

He announced that rural Jamaica will receive special attention in the new term, with a strong focus on agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure powered by modern technology.

Agriculture & Fisheries

• AI-Powered Farming: The JLP will train more farmers in the use of artificial intelligence to improve the quality of life for rural communities. Through AI, drone technology, and hydroponic systems, the party aims to increase crop yields while reducing reliance on chemicals, fertilisers, and water—ultimately boosting productivity and profits.
• Efficient Supply Chains: AI will be used to streamline the agricultural supply chain and resolve payment issues that farmers often face.
• Fisherfolk Support: The party will also deploy AI to improve the safety and working conditions of fisherfolk, ensuring a more resilient fisheries sector.
• Youth & Women in Agriculture: Special programs will be introduced to attract more young people and single mothers into agriculture, offering them training, tools, and access to emerging agri-technologies.

Healthcare Innovation

• Digital Medical Records & Telemedicine: AI will play a key role in the continued digitalisation of health records and the rollout of telemedicine in rural clinics. The Woodpark Clinic in St Mary is set to become the first clinic in Jamaica to use telemedicine.
• Senior Citizen Care: Healthcare support for persons over 60 will be expanded. “It is at that age you need the most medical help,” Montague noted, “but it is at that age that private insurance often cuts you off.”
• Menopause Support: The government plans to expand the National Health Fund (NHF) benefits to better support women facing menopausal challenges.
• Accessible Training: AI-driven learning platforms will be launched to provide training without the need to travel to HEART for some classes —”HEART will come to you,” Montague said. A pilot platform will soon launch in Western St Mary.

Technology, Education & Entrepreneurship

• AI Literacy & Digital Skills: Citizens of all ages will be trained in using AI for entrepreneurship, stock trading, app development, and more—using only their smartphones.
• Fighting Illiteracy: AI platforms will also support national efforts to reduce illiteracy.
• Expanded Surveillance & Security: An upgraded JamaicaEye surveillance program, supported by community Wi-Fi and drone technology, will help enhance national security, protect marine resources, and reduce crime.

“These are just some of the bold new ideas and continuation of programs that work,” Montague said, promising more details as the JLP formally launches its third-term agenda.