KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) says that effective July 5, Energy Minister, Andrew Wheatley will no longer manage the energy portfolio.

Critics have in recent weeks called for Wheatley’s resignation amidst a hail storm of allegations of corruption and victimisation at the state-run oil company, PetroJam.

OPM, in a release today, stated that after considering the PetroJam report it will be taking several measures moving forward, including transferring the energy portfolio.

OPM’s full statement below:

Cabinet today continued its consideration of a report it received last week on PetroJam and, having regard to investigations already underway, decided the following:

1. The residential status of all persons nominated to boards must be stated in the Cabinet Submission seeking approval for appointment.

2. Overseas travel of board chairmen or board members must receive prior approval of the minister.

3. Public bodies will be prohibited from entering into sole source retainer contracts without the prior approval of Cabinet.

4. The Ministry of Finance has been tasked to develop and finalise uniformed regulations for public bodies around donations and corporate social responsibility. Among other things, this would see limits on the amount that can be approved at the agency level. It will be a requirement that all donations be disclosed with details to include the amount, the receiving entity, the purpose of the donation and connected party consideration with the management, board of directors or the minister.

5. After discussion with Minister Wheatley, it was agreed that PetroJam requires strategic review of both of its management and operations, as well as its long-term commercial viability and role in Jamaica’s energy security. Having regard to this and the ongoing investigation, Minister Wheatley agreed with the prime minister that in the interest of transparency, the energy portfolio will be transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister, effective July 4, 2018.