MOEYI Seeks Legal Advice Re: Reid/Pinnock Contracts

Minister in the Ministry of Education, Youth and information, (MOEYI) Fayval Williams, says the Ministry has sought legal advice in relation to the contracts of embattled former Caribbean Maritime University, (CMU) President, Fritz Pinnock and former Education Minister Ruel Reid.

Both Reid and Pinnock’s contracts as principals continue despite being embroiled in alleged corruption within the education sector. Responding to questions during a recent post-cabinet media briefing, Minister Williams has indicated that she would not have been the person to approve the continued payments to former Minister Reid. But that question was not featured in the response from the Permanent Secretary who was also asked about a partnership with the Ministry and Ohio-based Hocking College in the US.

Reid was on secondment as principal in 2016 while he served as Minister for the MOEYI and despite some uproar for his dismissal in light of the scandal, remains contracted as a principal. News that Reid is currently seeking an extension to his special leave from Jamaica College until 2026, has prompted some concerns.

When asked if considerations were being given to discontinue this contract, the Minister says they have sought legal guidance. Efforts to confirm the conditions under which Reid is seeking this extension and whether it has been granted from the Education Ministry on Thursday proved inconclusive.

More in this CVM Live story from Neika Lewis: