The People's National Party is expressing grave concern about reports of gross wastage of public funds at Air Jamaica.

The Party has received reports that on June 5, 2008, an Air Jamaica flight #91 from Kingston to Barbados was taxing down the runway to take off and was instructed by the chairperson of the airline, Ms. Shirley Williams to stop, turn back and return to its gate. These instructions were given, apparently to accommodate a passenger who was late for his flight. The Party further understands that this passenger was a non paying one and therefore was contributing no revenue to the airline's parlous coffers.

The cost associated with this incident includes the actual refuelling of the aircraft and the administrative and management resources related to the refuelling exercise.

Deputy Opposition Spokesman on Transport, Patrick Harris said "While this may be an isolated incident, it raises serious concerns about the manner in which the airline is being run. This incident comes against the background of the sudden resignation of long standing Board member, Noel Hylton and a restive industrial relations climate at the airline."

The Party is calling on the Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance, Don Webhy to provide an explanation and justification for the aircraft turning back and the specific costs incurred by the airline.

Mr. Harris asked "What moral authority does the government and management of the airline have to ask workers to hold strain in their demands for improved salaries while it wastes public funds in this cavalier fashion."

Contact:
Patrick Harris
(876) 995-2639