September 4, 2026

Government signs contracts to support delivery of approximately 268 semi-permanent housing solutions across parishes hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa

The Government has signed contracts to support the delivery of approximately 268 semi-permanent housing solutions across parishes hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa last October.

The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development yesterday.

Of the 268 housing solutions, 143 are earmarked for Westmoreland and 125 for St. Elizabeth.

The housing solutions include units provided through the National Housing Trust (NHT) and housing solutions provided by the Government of China.

Minister with responsibility for land titling and settlements, Robert Montague, said the contract signing moves the Government significantly closer to providing safer accommodation for families displaced by the hurricane.

Mr. Montague explained that the decision to utilise semi-permanent housing solutions was driven by the need to provide shelter to affected families as quickly as possible, while the government continues to consider other housing options as part of the wider recovery effort.

Works under the contracts include the excavation of foundations and footings, construction of bases and associated external works, installation of sewage and water distribution systems, transportation and installation of the housing units, as well as internal wall partitioning and installation of fittings and fixtures.

Mr. Montague said with the contracts now signed, the focus shifts to implementation and delivery.