President of the People's National Party (PNP) Mark Golding says he has honoured his pledge to donate 80 per cent of his retroactive salary increase - amounting to $5,417,000 - to several charities in Jamaica.
According to Golding he wanted to fulfil the promise he made to the people of Jamaica on May 19th at a press conference on the matter.
“We have yet to receive the increased monthly salary, I assume if it is not rolled back we will see that at the end of this month. However, I did not want to wait for that, I wanted to ensure I fulfilled my promise to the people of Jamaica."
The donations have been allocated to the following charities:
1. Missionaries of the Poor
2. Mustard Seed Communities
3. Food for the Poor
4. Joy Town Community Development Foundation
5. OT Fairclough Trust Fund
6. Jamaica Paralympic Association
In a release on Tuesday, Golding stated that he carefully selected these organisations based on their exceptional efforts in addressing crucial needs within society.
He added that by directing his financial resources toward these organisations, he aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and marginalised communities.
Golding also reiterated his unwavering stance on the need to review and roll back the excessively high salary increases granted to Parliamentarians. He called for an independent body to thoroughly evaluate and reset these remuneration packages, which he views as “unreasonably excessive.”
“Such a review will ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the compensation of elected officials,” Golding said,
The Opposition Leader said he will continue to demonstrate the importance of responsible leadership and community involvement.
