The Integrity Commission has launched a high level investigation into allegations of corruption, conflict of interest and irregularities at the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority, JCAA.
It’s understood the Commission’s wide ranging probe was confirmed in a recent notice to the management of the JCAA.
Nationwide News understands that the corruption watchdog is probing the issuance and denial of licenses and permits to three tour companies and a named airline.
The Commission is particularly interested in all policies, communication, documentation and the names and positions of individuals who were involved in the issuance or denial of permits and licenses.
The scope of the probe reportedly stretches back to 2019.
The Integrity Commission is said to be specifically interested in whether the chairman of the JCAA is involved in the approval, issuing, or denial process of permits.
The Commission has asked for clarification on the role of the chairman of the Authority in the approval process at least twice in its notice.
That specific focus on the role of the chair of the Authority comes at a time when Colonel Oscar Derby is confirmed to have resigned as chairman of the Board.
Two other directors have also tendered their resignations.
No reason has been given for the sudden departures.
Efforts to reach the Transport Minister, Daryl Vaz for comment were unsuccessful.
When our news centre made contact with Colonel Derby on Friday, he denied knowledge of a probe being launched by the Integrity Commission.
He told our news centre he resigned his post because he believes he can be more effective in another position.
Our news centre was unable to reach Director General of the JCAA, Nari Williams Singh for comment.
It’s understood that retired Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Stewart Saunders is to be appointed as the new chairman of the authority.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz says the resignations of Colonel Oscar Derby as chairman of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority, JCAA and at least two other members of the board has no relation with the high level investigation launched by the Integrity Commission.
Daryl Vaz, Transport Minister.
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