Deputy Opposition Spokesperson on Road and Works, Dwayne Vaz, MP, has raised serious concerns regarding what he describes as a pattern of inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the Government’s SPARK road rehabilitation programme.

Vaz points to recent statements by Minister Robert Morgan, which appear to contradict prior budget estimates and public commitments directly. He argues that these discrepancies have created significant uncertainty about the programme’s true scope, timeline, and cost.

The Opposition Spokesperson highlighted that the programme, originally slated as a short-term initiative from January 2025 to March 2028, now appears, according to expenditure estimates, set to extend until 2030. Further confusion surrounds the scale of works. While Minister Morgan recently indicated SPARK would address approximately 1,200 kilometres of Jamaica’s 26,000 kilometres of roads, this figure seemingly differs from earlier, smaller scope documentation.

Vaz also flagged a worrying reduction in the number of roads to benefit. Initial estimates promised approximately 693 roads, ensuring at least ten per constituency. However, recent statements suggest this figure may have been cut to around 400, raising questions about whether the original constituency allocation will be honoured.

Perhaps most critically, Vaz highlighted a significant financing discrepancy. Previous budget estimates allocated $20 billion for this financial year and $14 billion next year to complete SPARK. Yet, the current budget allocates only $4.5 billion, suggesting many roads slated for construction this year may not be finished.

“Road rehabilitation is critical for our communities, our farmers, and our economy. However, the public must be given accurate information about what will be delivered, when it will be delivered, and how the funds are being allocated.”

Vaz is demanding the Government provide Parliament and the public with consistent, verified updates on the confirmed number of roads, the completion timeline, and the distribution of projects across constituencies.