Tourism Spokesperson Senator Janice Allen, Condemns Appointment of Petrojam Scandal Implicated Lionel Myrie as Deputy Executive Director of TPDCo
Montego Bay, Jamaica. July 26, 2024: The Opposition People’s National Party is vehemently opposed to the recent appointment of Lionel Myrie as Deputy Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo). This decision, despite serious allegations against Mr. Myrie related to the Petrojam scandal, raises significant concerns about the Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Senator Janice Allen, the Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism and Linkages, expressed her profound disappointment and alarm regarding this appointment. “Lionel Myrie’s involvement in the Petrojam scandal remains a stark reminder of past corruption, and his appointment to this critical role within the public sector is deeply troubling,” Senator Allen asserted. “The unresolved allegations against him continue to undermine public trust in our institutions.”
For those who may have forgotten or are unaware, Mr. Myrie was implicated in controversial multimillion-dollar donations during his tenure as a director at the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ), the parent company of Petrojam. Emails sent by Mr. Myrie formed the basis for a $10 million donation to the Homestead Citizens for Action Benevolent Society and a $9 million donation request for the Sydenham Citizens’ Association, which is still under investigation by the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). Despite his claims of acting merely as a “courier,” his involvement in these transactions has cast a long shadow over his professional integrity.
The Opposition insists that the appointment process for such influential positions must be guided by integrity and transparency. “The tourism sector is a cornerstone of Jamaica’s economy, and it demands leadership that is above reproach,” Senator Allen emphasized. “Appointing individuals with tainted histories to key positions jeopardizes our nation’s reputation and erodes the confidence of both local and international stakeholders.”
Senator Allen also criticized the Government for seemingly waiting until public outrage had subsided before making this controversial appointment. “It appears the Government hoped that the passage of time would dull our memories and lessen the backlash,” she remarked. “This tactic is not only cynical but also a disservice to the Jamaican people, who deserve leaders committed to ethical governance.”
She called for an immediate and comprehensive review of the appointment process, urging the Government to prioritize merit and ethical standards in all public sector appointments. “This is not merely a matter of administrative procedure; it is about safeguarding the principles of good governance and public trust,” she said. “We must ensure that all appointments are free from controversy and rooted in integrity.”
Furthermore, Senator Allen highlighted allegations that Mr. Myrie has been working in an unofficial capacity within TPDCo since 2021, despite not being formally appointed. “This revelation only deepens our concerns and underscores the need for stringent oversight and transparency in public appointments,” she remarked.
The Opposition pledges to continue advocating for transparency and will closely monitor the developments surrounding Mr. Myrie’s appointment. “It is imperative that we uphold the highest standards of governance to protect the interests of the Jamaican people and maintain the integrity of our institutions,” Senator Allen concluded. “We call on the Government to rescind this appointment immediately and demonstrate a genuine commitment to fighting corruption and fostering good governance.”
