KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association (JMA) on Tuesday said it is “deeply disturbed” by the most recent denial of entry of Jamaicans to Trinidad and Tobago.

The JMA said the latest action represents a “blatant disregard” for the binding commitment undertaken by Trinidad and Tobago, to the goal of free movement of Caricom nationals without discrimination on the grounds of nationality, as stipulated by the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC).

“The goal of hassle-free movement is an enshrined right which must not be held to the whims and fancies of any individual or Member State,” the JMA said in a news release.

The approach taken by Trinidad and Tobago is “divisive at best” and as such the JMA strongly urges the Government of Jamaica to act swiftly in addressing this reoccurring blight on the right of the Jamaican people.

The JMA also noted that the ongoing dialogue between past Administrations and the Foreign Affairs ministries of both countries has resulted in little or no tangible improvement in circumstances.

Consequently, the Association is calling on the Government of Jamaica to take immediate action by placing in the public domain a comprehensive list of concerns that Trinidad and Tobago should address in relation to immigration and trade between both parties.

“This should be accompanied by definitive timelines to swiftly eradicate the underlying biases towards Jamaicans,” the JMA said.

The JMA said it recognises the fundamental importance of trade between the two countries and continue to advocate for more trade in goods and services to bring about major benefits to our economy and people.

“If Caricom is meant to be more than a grouping of small countries, Member States must seriously abide by the rule of law within the community. If not, the JMA is in agreement with adopting more stringent measures to ensure compliance,” the organisation said.