2013年-世界发展银行全球_Jamaica___Parliamentary_Oversight_of_Public_Finances--An_Institutional_Review_64页_1mb

Summary of the Report: Jamaica - Parliamentary Oversight of Public Finances: An Institutional Review

Core Content

This report, prepared by the World Bank, provides an institutional review of the parliamentary oversight of public finances in Jamaica. It aims to support the Government in strengthening the capacity of the Jamaican Houses of Parliament to fulfill their constitutional role in monitoring and managing public finances. The report outlines the current structure, processes, and challenges of parliamentary oversight and offers a series of recommendations to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Main Views

• Parliamentary Oversight is Critical: Effective legislative oversight is essential for ensuring efficient and effective public spending. It is a key component of good governance, transparency, and accountability.
• High Debt Challenge: Jamaica faces a significant challenge in managing its public finances due to a high level of debt. This necessitates better prioritization of spending and improved fiscal management practices.
• Parliament's Role in the FRF: The Fiscal Responsibility Framework (FRF) requires Parliament to play a central role in supporting the Government to put public finances on a more sustainable path.
• Need for Institutional Strengthening: The report emphasizes the need to enhance the structure, processes, and infrastructure of Parliament to better perform its oversight functions.
• Committee System Development: The committee system, particularly the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), is evolving but requires further support in terms of transparency and public access to information.

Key Information

Structure and Function of Jamaica's Parliament

• Jamaica is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy based on the Westminster model.
• The House of Representatives is elected by universal adult suffrage, while the Senate is appointed.
• The Prime Minister and Cabinet are accountable to Parliament.
• The Constitution allows for amendments with a two-thirds majority in both Houses, and a referendum may be required if the Senate does not concur.

Fiscal Context

• Jamaica has a high level of debt, which has been a concern for over 20 years.
• The Fiscal Responsibility Framework (FRF) was introduced to improve fiscal management and transparency.
• The Ministry of Finance and Public Service (MOF) is central to the implementation of the FRF.

Legislative Process

• The legislative process is executive-centred, with the Government typically leading the initiation and formulation of laws.
• Government Bills are drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, under the Ministry of Justice.
• Special Select Committees are used to examine complex or controversial legislation, and they have the authority to receive evidence and make recommendations.
• Pre-legislative scrutiny is a key mechanism for improving the quality of legislation and ensuring that it aligns with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Committee System

• The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC) are the two main oversight committees.
• These committees are increasingly effective, but public access to information about their activities is limited, which hampers their impact and the representational role of Parliament.

Challenges

• Infrastructure and Human Resources: The Parliament lacks adequate facilities, technology, and staffing, which significantly hampers the work of MPs and committees.
• Coordination with Executive: There is a need for better coordination and independence from the Executive, particularly in budget processes and committee operations.
• Public Engagement: Limited public engagement in the legislative process reduces transparency and the legitimacy of parliamentary decisions.

Recommendations

• Strategic Plan: Develop a comprehensive strategic plan for Parliament, incorporating the report's recommendations.
• Modernization of Parliament Secretariat: Modernize the Secretariat and its committees, procure necessary equipment, and train staff.
• Database for Oversight Recommendations: Establish a database to track the recommendations of PAC and PAAC and their implementation.
• Enhance Legislative Process: Review Standing Orders and consider establishing a Business Committee or Steering Committee, or assigning such functions to existing committees.
• Training for MPs: Provide training for MPs, especially newer members, on oversight functions.
• Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO): Establish a PBO/Office to support MPs and committees with financial and fiscal management advice.
• Infrastructure Development: Improve human resources, facilities, and infrastructure, including the construction of a new parliamentary building.
• Budget Independence: Ensure adequate budget independence for Parliament.

Action Plan