The reduction of  General Consumption Tax GCT on electricity from 15 to 7 per cent for all Jamaica Public Service customers, starting next year, was among the announcements made by Prime Minister Andrew Holness at the Jamaica Labour Party’s 81st annual conference, in Kingston, today.

Shanice Gibbs covered the day’s proceedings and filed this report. 

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The Jamaica Labour Party says it’s the best option to govern the country. 

And, at today’s annual conference, JLP members embarked on a mission to prove why next year, when the general election is called, citizens should only put their x beside the bell. 

The event’s roster was filled with several speakers, who highlighted the party’s achievements in areas, including health, foreign affairs, social security, agriculture, and finance. 

For each speech, the constant message was that the 81-year-old political party remains active and strong. 

JLP’s General Secretary, Dr. Horace Chang reminded supporters that the party was capable of guiding the country through crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Dr. Chang added that all management and organizational structures are falling into place, to ensure the party runs efficiently. 

The party also enlisted the help of its youth ambassador, Leeyon-lynn Layne, who spoke about efforts undertaken by the JLP, to empower the poor and the nation’s youth.

She also highlighted other changes, including those related to the Students’ Loan Bureau. 

When party leader Andrew Holness took to the stage-at around 2:23 pm, he outlined several initiatives, aimed at addressing major sore points of the Jamaican people. 

Jubilant supporters jumped to their feet, after Mr. Holness announced that the GCT on electricity will be reduced from 15 to seven per cent after the next budget in March 2025.

Mr. Holness also revealed a plan, which, among other things, will see the debts of several persons who had been disconnected from the national water commission’s network, waived. 

He added that many students will soon benefit from subsidized transportation.

Mr. Holness also addressed hotel workers, who recently staged several protests across the island, over wage and poor working conditions. 

Meanwhile, JLP supporters have expressed satisfaction with their leaders’ speech. 

One man told Irie FM News that Mr. Holness was concise and addressed issues that affect what he described as the regular man. 

One woman said Mr. Holness’ address left her feeling confident in her decision to support the JLP.