The government will be  transitioning to  direct cash payments to beneficiaries of the ROOFS programme, under phase two of the initiative.

Social Security minister Pearnel Charles Jnr gave the update today while making his contribution to the sectoral debate in parliament.

The Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) programme was established by the government in response to devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa last October, to support affected residents with rebuilding their homes.

The programme has faced challenges with beneficiaries complaining about difficulties accessing the benefits while the Opposition People’s National Party has criticised the programme.

Mr. Charles Jnr said 43,000 beneficiaries have so far been verified.

He acknowledged that the programme has had challenges and assured that these are being addressed, in phase 2 of the programme.