In opening the 2009-2010 Sectoral Debate inside Gordon House yesterday, Charles said the promise was not an illusion and argued that there was little the Government could do in the turbulent economic conditions to deliver on its platform vow.

"A lot of persons laugh when the prime minister said that we must find jobs, jobs and more jobs for the people. We are on the way. Better days are coming," Charles said.

Though he did not outline any specific thrust of job creation, Charles pointed to the overseas employment programmes which remain an avenue for Jamaicans.

The minister also pointed to programmes such as the Special Youth Employment and Training project, which is aimed at transforming the lives of unattached and at-risk youths. Charles said the programme would target 10,000 people over the next four years.