Barrett

Rae Barrett, chief executive officer of the National Health Fund (NHF), has been appointed interim deputy chairman of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC).

Transport Minister, Mike Henry, who has been in charge of the Government-run bus company since the June 27 gun slaying of executive chairman, Douglas Chambers, will continue to act as chairman.

Communications manager in the transport ministry, Reginald Allen yesterday told The Gleaner Barrett's appointment was part of efforts to ensure the smooth management of the company.

Allen said Henry was working to find a suitable replacement for the late chairman, but the decision had to be one that was "solid and well thought-out".

"The minister has to be moving cautiously because, based on the circumstances, it's not your average appointment," said Allen. "It is going to take someone who can handle the extreme conditions, particularly with the tensions surrounding labour relations."

He said the minister would also be re-examining the composition of the current JUTC board with the intention to make other changes.