Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. says the passage of Hurricane Beryl and resulting relief efforts have shown the need for the full rollout of the National Identification System (NIDS).

Mr. Charles Jr. made the declaration during this morning’s launch of the ‘Rebuild Jamaica Initiative’ where at least 50 Jamaicans, received cash grants to help rebuild homes damaged by the category four hurricane.

According to the Minister, since July 4, there have been several challenges to government’s response efforts.

He argued that NIDS would enable an effective and timely response effort, as citizens’ data would be stored in a structured way.

The Minister pledged to support the rollout of NIDS.