Minister Williams Speaks on Ruel Reid’s Extended Leave

Government Members of Parliament on Wednesday, October 27, sought to seek answers from Education Minister, Fayval Williams on whether disgraced former Education Minister and principal of Jamaica College, Ruel Reid will be allowed to continue on paid special leave when his current leave period expires on November 20, 2021.

The Government has been paying out over $11 million in salaries and benefits to Reid and acting principal of Jamaica College, Wayne Robinson, combined, inclusive of motor vehicle upkeep of $74,577 each, and housing allowance of $35,481 each. Education Minister, Fayval Williams sought to provide some clarity regarding Reid’s special leave. The Minister notes that these recommendations were made on separate occasions.

However, Opposition Member, Julian Robinson pressed the Minister on Reid’s extension or special leave. The Education Minister noted that she had received a letter from the Chairman of the Board of Jamaica College, alerting her to the fact that the request.

In regards to Robinson’s question of who would approve Reid’s request, Minister Williams noted that the Board would make a recommendation to the Minister. Minister Williams pointed out that boards are vested with the power to appoint, terminate, promote, and suspend from duty, members of staff of public education institutions.

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