The Jamaica Beach Birthright Environmental Movement (JABBEM) has submitted a detailed proposal to Parliament outlining suggested amendments to the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NARRA) Bill.

JABBEM argues that the legislation contains structural weaknesses that could leave thousands of informal coastal landholders, fisherfolk, hurricane survivors and long-standing beach community residents vulnerable.

The group said these persons could face permanent land dispossession without recognition, compensation or legal recourse.

President of JABBEM, Dr. Devon Taylor stressed that while the NARRA does not abolish adverse possession or explicitly authorise evictions, its danger lies in the way the legislation is structured.

One recommendation is for mandatory surveys to be done prior to any development project being started in order to identify and register informal coastal occupants.

Dr. Taylor said the proposed amendments to the NARRA is aimed at ensuring that the state identifies and protects the rights of people already occupying lands earmarked for development projects.