Information Minister, Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, says that while she understands citizens’ concerns about the Third-Country Nationals agreement with the United States, Jamaicans can be assured that the Government will always act in their best interest.

It was revealed this week that Jamaica has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see Jamaica temporarily accepting deported non-Jamaican migrants from the U.S.

It has triggered widespread public discussion and criticism about the perceived lack of transparency, security risks and the absence of clear benefits for the island.

In a Ministerial update with the Jamaica Information Service, Dr. Morris Dixon stressed that the island’s interest is a priority.

She also sought to clarify the apparent discrepancy over whether or not Jamaica initiated discussions for the agreement.

In Parliament and during a post-Cabinet press briefing, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang noted that the U.S. approached Jamaica about the Third-Country Nationals Programme.

However, reports later emerged, alleging that the U.S. was approached by a Jamaican Government official.

According to Dr. Morris Dixon, the Jamaican official approached the U.S. about getting skilled labourers in Jamaica.