St James Southern poised for development

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Desmond McKenzie, says that the Government will be looking to undertake several developmental projects in St James Southern.

Speaking with journalists last Friday during a tour of several communities in the area, McKenzie said the projects would include the provision of potable piped water and the rehabilitation of several roads. Additionally, McKenzie said the ministry plans to expand on work being spearheaded by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund and the Jamaica Public Service Company to provide electricity in a number of communities.

He advised that the ministry is also looking at the possible restoration of an abandoned market in the community of Cambridge, adding that portfolio agency, the Social Development Commission, had been asked to conduct a survey to determine other engagements for which the facility can be used.

"We are a government that is committed to rural development, and we will ensure that we play our part in assisting ... the people of south St James," McKenzie said.

For his part, Homer Davis, member of parliament for the constituency, said the support of the various stakeholders will enable the constituency to undergo major development being targeted.

"I am very optimistic and upbeat that this constituency... will see major changes. I am sure we will, in the near future, be seeing some activities taking place," Davis, the state minister in the local government ministry, said.

Communities visited by the ministers included Copperwood, Bickersteth, Cambridge, Mount Horeb, and Maroon Town.