JAMAICA | PNP wants the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) Board to Resign

Kingston, Jamaica. August 19, 2024: The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) is calling for the resignation of the board of the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA). In addition,  the opposition party is reiterating its demand for the Auditor General (AG) to investigate the increasing reports of mismanagement within the agency responsible for regulating Jamaica’s ganja and hemp industry.

The call, made by Anthony Hylton, Opposition Spokesperson on Investment, Trade, and Global Logistics, follows recent media reports highlighting serious concerns among CLA staff regarding the promotion of unqualified and inexperienced individuals to senior positions.

These concerns are accompanied by allegations of malfeasance by the agency’s management. In response to these developments, Mr Hylton stated, “It is simply not credible that the board could be unaware of the numerous complaints and the high attrition rates of key personnel over an extended period, without understanding the implications for the agency’s mandate to develop Jamaica’s cannabis industry.”

Mr Hylton further criticised the board’s failure to address the ongoing issues, which have resulted in a high turnover rate among personnel. He remarked, “The board’s inaction is compounded by its failure to implement governance measures that would prevent the rampant abuse of personnel, as evidenced by the hiring, firing, and promotion practices at the agency.

This situation has been exacerbated by the disbandment of the Human Resource Executive Committee for nearly a year.” He added that the board’s recent suggestion to review hiring and firing decisions made since January is “too little, too late, after the proverbial horse has bolted.”

Additionally, Mr Hylton pointed out that the board itself contributed to the current state of affairs by failing to pursue a programme to adjust the employment status of staff members after the government announced its intention to make contract workers permanent. “This would have provided staff members with the security and protection they needed,” he noted.

The Opposition Spokesperson is calling for a fresh start at the agency, including the immediate appointment of a new board. He also urges the Auditor General to carry out a thorough investigation into the personnel and other decisions at the CLA to restore confidence in its mission to develop Jamaica’s cannabis industry and protect the investments of many stakeholders.

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