Jamaicans oppose diaspora representative in parliament

Several Jamaicans are opposed to a recent recommendation to allow members of the Jamaican Diaspora to have a representative in Parliament.



A committee has been established to hear and debate potential constitutional amendments or policy considerations that could be made to give the diaspora a voice in parliament.



The majority of those canvassed were opposed to Jamaicans in the diaspora being allowed to sit in Parliament.



One person interviewed said Jamaicans living overseas should not be placed in a position where they have influence over locals.



According to Anthony Rochester, Jamaicans who live abroad should not be allowed any special privilege of having their views represented in Parliament.



He contends that they should return to the island if they want to play an active role in the decision-making process.



Others proposed that rather than having a representative in parliament, a committee should be established to speak on the behalf of the diaspora.



Some thought it would be a good idea for members of the diaspora to have someone in Parliament to represent their views.