Holness hopeful for new Cuban medical programme

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says Jamaica remains hopeful for a new arrangement with Cuba, as the existing Cuban Medical Mission comes to an end.

"We continue to be hopeful that some agreement... some changes can be made to the programme," he said. Holness was speaking during his contribution to the 2026/27 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Thursday. Holness explained that when concerns were raised by the US more than a year ago regarding the Cuban Medical Mission, the Government reviewed the programme against Jamaica's own laws and the various multilateral conventions to which the country has obligations.

"Let me say from the outset that the Cuban Medical Mission has been beneficial to the people of Jamaica. The Cuban doctors and nurses have assimilated quite well in our hospital system and have developed strong bonds with the people they serve. I can say that Jamaicans love them and want them to stay," he stated.

"However, there were aspects of the programme which were brought to the attention of our Cuban counterparts, to include how personnel are paid, that run counter to our own laws and several international conventions. We were hopeful that adjustments to make the programme compliant could have been agreed so that we could continue to have the direct service of the Cuban health professionals who are here," Holness added.

The prime minister noted that every year, the Parliament debates a motion on the embargo on Cuba and that he has routinely included this subject in his presentation to the United Nations General Assembly. He said that as Jamaica's closest neighbour, "we are concerned for the situation in Cuba, and through CARICOM, Jamaica will do its part to offer support for our brothers and sisters in Cuba".

"We take note of press reports that talks have opened between Cuba and the United States. This is a moment for reform and reset, and we are hopeful for a positive outcome," Holness stated.