Ja: They're going home, they're going home

According to the [Minister of Land and Environment Dean Peart], many of the [Haitian] refugees have expressed a desire to return to Haiti, adding that the government was ready and willing to assist in the repatriation process.

"Both Ministries are now under instruction to make travel arrangements for those who wish to return to Haiti," Mr. Peart said. "Those who wish to go are being given all the assistance they need as we intend to repatriate them as soon as possible."

He noted that the Government has set up a committee to process submissions from those refugees who are seeking to remain in Jamaica and seek Jamaican citizenship. He said those refugees not seeking to remain in Jamaica will not be interviewed and will be free to leave once the opportunity arises.

"Presently an interview process is under way for those Haitians seeking political asylum," said Mr. Peart. "The interviews are being done by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Security."