Chairman of the Jamaica Debates Commission (JDC) Brian Schmidt, says $25 million is a reasonable cost for staging this year’s National Political Debates.

Last week, news of the estimated cost to host all three debates prompted public concern over what has been described by many as an exorbitant price tag.

However, Mr. Schmidt told IRIE FM News that with the current costs for television production, the 25 million is more than appropriate.

He also noted that security costs are included in the hosting bill, as the debates will involve high-level individuals.

According to Mr. Schmidt, the first of the three 90-minute debates will happen about one week after the date for the general election is announced.

The first debate will be on social issues, the second will cover economic policy and finance, while the third will be a leadership debate.

However, Mr. Schmidt explained that the economic debate will be a team debate – a new move by the JDC.