PM Briceno Addresses Concerns on Immigration Strategy, E-Passports, and Amnesty Program

When Senator Eamon Courtenay demitted office at the end of 2023, the Prime Minister decided to take on the immigration portfolio.   This is in addition to taking on the Blue Economy portfolio, following the suspension of Minister Andre Perez.  It is a hefty load, and today, he was asked about his strategy to tackle the myriad issues surrounding immigration.  Two specific issues have to do with the launch of e-passports and an amnesty program. In recent weeks, people have complained about the sluggish pace of both ventures and the uncertainty of their document’s progress. Today, Prime Minister John Briceno weighed in on the concerns and explained that hindrances are attributed to several factors. 

As we reported this week, a shuffle of CEOs is underway that is expected to assist in the recent changes in ministerial portfolio.  Effective January 16, CEO Tanya Santos-Neal will be the new CEO for Immigration; Dr Gilroy Middleton will be moving to the Ministry of Transport; and CEO Adele Catzim-Sanchez will be moving to the Ministry of Human Development.