Gov’t to fast-track repairs to damaged markets

Repairs to markets that sustained damage during the passage of Hurricane Beryl will be fast-tracked.

The Falmouth, Mandeville, Lucea and Old Harbour markets in Trelawny, Manchester, Hanover and St Catherine, respectively, were significantly impacted by gale-force winds and torrential rains accompanying the category four cyclone.

"The Government, earlier this year, had announced a $500-million programme for markets across the country. We will move that process forward and we will give priority to those markets that were affected by the hurricane," Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, advised. He was addressing Wednesday's post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

McKenzie also said infirmaries in Westmoreland, Trelawny, Hanover, St Ann and St Elizabeth were also affected.

"The St Ann Infirmary is still occupying a school, and once they have completed the work that is necessary they will return to the infirmary," he indicated.

The state-run infirmaries islandwide are essential facilities that offer shelter and support services to the elderly, destitute, and mentally challenged individuals who have no other means of care.