Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness has rejected the salary increase afforded to him in the public sector compensation review, stating that he must show solidarity with Jamaicans experiencing financial difficulties. 

He also announced minimal changes to his Cabinet by cutting one ministry and appointing new Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon as minister without portfolio, responsible for skills and digital transformation. 

Holness emphasised that there was a need for an efficient compensation system based on effort and responsibility, and that job descriptions and performance evaluations for the political directorate that were previously drafted will be implemented immediately. 

These changes come after Holness and his Government faced criticism over the significant salary increases granted to Cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, and parish councillors, with the increases expected to range up to 200%.