CHRISTIANA, Manchester — Three years after ground was broken here for the Christiana tax office, Finance Minister Fayval Williams on Friday officially opened the facility which has increased efficiency for taxpayers in north-east Manchester and adjoining areas.

“This tax office here is not only about taxes, it is about trust, it is about access and ultimately it is about how the Government shows up for its people. Today the Government of Jamaica is showing up. [A] modern tax office brings public service closer to the people of Christiana and the surrounding communities,” Williams told her audience at Friday’s opening ceremony.

Among those in attendance at the ceremony was former Finance Minister and Manchester North Eastern Member of Parliament Audley Shaw, who has been credited for his vision in lobbying for the modern facility. Christiana is located in north-east Manchester.

Current Member of Parliament for Manchester North Eastern, Ambassador Audrey Marks cuts the ribbon officially opening the Christiana tax office on Friday. She is joined by (from left) Finance Minister Fayval Williams; former Finance Minister Audley Shaw, who previously served as Manchester North Eastern MP; and commissioner general of Tax Administration Jamaica Ainsley Powell.Photo: Kasey Williams

“I want to acknowledge Minister Shaw and the role that he played in this, in terms of getting this office here to serve the people of Christiana,” Williams said.

“When Government brings service closer to the people we are not simply opening another office. We are making lives better for you. We are opening another door between Jamaican people and the Government they support,” Williams added.

She said the $760-million state-of-the-art facility actually opened its doors in February, offering a wide range of services, greater convenience, and a more modern customer experience.

The conference room at the Christiana tax office which was officially opened on Friday, August 14, 2026. Kasey Williams

“This moment has been in the making for some time. Our journey began in 2023 when we broke ground for the construction of this new tax office to address the challenges experienced by staff and the taxpayers at the previous location. Three years later we can see the result of that investment,” said Williams.

“The significance of this investment extends beyond Christiana, it serves residents across Manchester and provides another option for neighbouring communities in Trelawny, Clarendon, and even St Elizabeth; if you do not want to use the Santa Cruz tax office we will welcome you here,” the finance minister added.

She said additional work is needed to reach more taxpayers at their convenience.

Tax Administration Jamaica Deputy Commissioner, General Corporate Services Division Judith Smith-Richards (centre) displays this kiosk at the Christiana tax office to Finance Minister Fayval Williams (right) and Member of Parliament for Manchester North Eastern Audrey Marks, at the official opening of the facility on Friday. Kasey Williams

“We know that distance can be a barrier to accessing Government services. A trip to another parish can mean additional transportation cost, time away from work or business, and inconvenience for families, that is why investments such as this one today matters,” she said.

“We recognise that for many Jamaicans their most direct interaction with Government happens when they need a public service, whether it is obtaining a taxpayer registration number, completing a motor vehicle transaction, processing a driver’s licence, filing taxes, or making a payment. That interaction should be efficient, straightforward, and respectful of the citizens’ time”.

“Imagine we are asking you to pay a fee and we have you waiting in line. What can go so?” Williams added, evoking laughter.