Prime Minister Andrew Holness says attempts are being made to “tear down” the New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) for political gain.

This following claims made in a social media video that beneficiaries are not full owners of housing units provided under the programme.

Yesterday the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation assured that the houses are fully owned by the beneficiaries, not the Government.

It said all houses are constructed on land provided by the beneficiaries, a core requirement for receiving a social house under the programme.

This includes land ownership, long-term lease, or granted permission, supported by legitimate claims such as a deed of gift.

Speaking at the handing over of a house under the NSHP in Porters Mountain, Westmoreland today, Mr. Holness described the claims made in the video as despicable.

He questioned the intent of those targetting the programme.

Mr. Holness said there is a deliberate attempt to tarnish a good programme and the Government.