Jones

The governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) was yesterday soundly chastised by a group of clergymen who came to the defence of Adinair Jones, the former head of the National Youth Service (NYS), during a press conference at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

Jones cut ties with the NYS in a cloud of controversy sparked by the granting of a transport contract, reportedly valued at a total of $30 million, to a known supporter of the People's National Party - the only bidder who had met all the criteria.

In a string of harsh criticisms laced with scriptural references, the clergymen blasted the Government, accusing it of behaving like "demigods".

Sore issue

Jones, a clergyman himself who was unceremoniously "separated" from the job he held for the past nine years, said while he was attempting to bring closure to what has been a sore issue for him, he would not at this time rule out a court battle with his former employer, the Ministry of Education.

He said this was pending a review of the information which has been circulated on the issue throughout the media.

"The manner of the separation has caused me personal damage," Jones declared. He complained that his name was muddied by what he characterised as "strategic leaks" (of information) and misinformation, which made reference to the political persuasion of the successful bidder.

The controversy was sparked by a dispute over whether a "rate" contract (granted in parts under an agreed rate) was more suitable than an "aggregate" contract (total value).

As the controversy raged, Jones said instructions were issued that the contract tender should be re-entered.

Reputation tarnished

Jones was adamant that the matter could have been easily resolved and declared that there was need for an improved process to ensure that the reputations of public servants are not unjustly tarnished in the future.

He contended that both the auditor general and the National Contract Commission had signalled that they were satisfied that nothing amiss had taken place.

During the press conference, attended by one of Jones' attorneys, André Earl of the law firm Rattray Patterson and Rattray, he declared that there was nothing underhanded about the contract and suggested that his forced separation was politically motivated.

Jones told journalists that he was given the option of resigning or being fired and he chose to quit.

The press conference, convened to give Jones a forum from which he could clear his name, took on the flavour of a religious meeting with each clergyman bringing exhortations or offering prayer.

Call for christians to serve

In a strongly worded exhortation, Jones' predecessor, Rev Garnett Roper, described the issue that precipitated Jones' demise as untidy.

"In this country, cruelty is democratised. We must stop being part of the democratisation of cruelty, you don't know when it's your turn," he declared.

Another clergyman, Pastor Dave Gus, described Jones as an outstanding public servant and said while there were challenges confronting Christian public servants to be just, fair and truthful, there was still a call being made for those who stand on the pillars of righteousness to serve.

gary.spaulding@gleanerjm.com