Durrant Pate/Contributor

Jamaica’s National Partnership Council, which has existed since the mid-2000s in one form or another, is being institutionalized by the incumbent Andrew Holness administration.

In making the announcement in a statement in the Senate, Dana Morris-Dixon, who serves as the coordinating minister for the National Partnership Council, pointed to the importance of starting to institutionalise elements of the council.

To this end, the administration is currently developing a terms of reference (TOR) for the National Partnership Council. 

According to Senator Morris-Dixon, “we plan to have the draft completed by the end of the financial year. The TOR will clarify matters such as the frequency of meetings of the council and its committee, how members are appointed, matters relating to quorum, the scope of the NPC and other details.” 

Basis for institutionalisation 

The Partnership Agreement of 2022 will serve as the basis for this institutionalisation of the National Partnership Council. Minister Morris-Dixon told the upper House of Parliament that, using the appropriate channels, she will be working with all partners to ensure that there is consensus on what the partnership institution should be. 

The senator thanked all the partners, government, opposition, private sector, trade unions and civic organisations for their ongoing commitment to continuing the work of the partnership.  She said the incumbent administration recognises the role of the National Partnership Council and has committed to strengthening the institution for a better Jamaica. 

Senator Morris-Dixon made the point that ”in our rapidly changing world, it is these partnerships that will drive innovation, fuel our economic engines, and help us face challenges, be they environmental, economic, or social.”

She emphasised that while the partners do not always agree, “we definitely have very vigorous discussions, but through it all it is clear that we all want the best for our country”.

“As the coordinating minister, my commitment remains unwavering – to foster an environment where these partnerships flourish, where every voice is valued, and where our shared objectives lead to the betterment of all Jamaicans,” added Morris Dixon.

Celebrating National Partnership Day 

On Wednesday October 25 Jamaicans came together to mark National Partnership Day, reminding the society of the collective spirit, unity, and shared vision that bind the people of Jamaica. This day was not just a date on the calendar but has become a symbol of our nation’s journey, the testament of our shared endeavours, and the promise of our united future.

Senator Morris-Dixon argued that National Partnership Day underscores Jamaica’s enduring legacy – that our strength lies not just in the beauty of our landscapes or the rhythm of our music, but in the harmony of our partnerships. These are the partnerships, she contended have existed among government agencies, businesses, civil societies, churches, communities, and every individual, who calls Jamaica their island home.

As Jamaica celebrated National Partnership Day, Senator Morris-Dixon called on the social partners to rekindle their commitments to one another, forging ahead, knowing that our collective strength is our greatest asset. She also called on the society to embrace the spirit of collaboration, for in unity there is not only strength but also the promise of a brighter, more prosperous Jamaica for all.