National Security Minister again rejects suggestions that persons with criminal backgrounds will be allowed into the country, saying the country has worked too hard to reduce crime

National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang has doubled down on the Government’s stance that persons with criminal records will not be accepted in the country, under the agreement between Jamaica and the United States in relation to Third-Country Nationals (TCNS).

According to the Government, the MOU will provide for Third-Country Nationals transferred from the U.S. to transit through Jamaica to their final destination.

The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP), has criticised the initiative noting that ‘dangerous’ people will be brought into the country.

However, speaking in Parliament today, Dr. Chang referred to the public discourse of the issue reiterating that criminals will not be included.

Dr. Chang asked critics why the Government would bring criminals into the country when it has worked so hard to reduce crime and violence.

He stressed that no criminal regardless of nationality will find safe haven in Jamaica, under the Andrew Holness led Government.

Dr. Chang said the Government will continue to protect the gains made against crime and violence and to protect its borders.