Jamaicans are being urged focus on what kind of governance structure they want for the country, as a republic.

They are also being urged to inform themselves about the constitution, so that when changes are to be made, those changes will be owned by the people.

The matter of the constitutional reform was discussed at a Town Hall meeting in Montego Bay St James on Wednesday evening, with members of the reform committee responding to questions from residents.

In response to a query on the benefits of becoming a republic, committee co-chair, Rocky Meade pointed out that it presents an opportunity to learn from history, to implement a different type of governance system.

Opposition representative, Anthony Hylton noted that from an international perspective, other countries will take note of Jamaica as a self governing nation, which informs how they navigate foreign relations.

And, civil service representative Dr Nadeen Spence said another benefit, is the very process of discussing what should be in a jamaican constitution.