Holness promises social houses for tourism workers

Prime Minister, Dr Andrew Holness, has announced the imminent launch of a new component of the New Social Housing Programme (NSHP), aimed at providing shelter for tourism workers.

"We have a budget that will essentially finance the construction of another 100 units for tourism workers," Holness said during a handover ceremony on Friday, where a new two-bedroom unit was presented to NSHP beneficiary, Patrick Sawyers, at 51 Whitehall Avenue in St Andrew North Central.

Holness described the NSHP as the most successful and effective social housing initiative in Jamaica's history, noting that the Government has, to date, handed over 292 units to needy beneficiaries.

He added that 46 units are currently under construction and expected to be completed within the next three months.

Another 65 units are in various stages of design, procurement and contracting.

Holness said the NSHP will be expanded over time to provide more housing solutions for Jamaicans in need.

"We [now hand over]. on average, three or four per week. We intend to double that within the next two years; we are targeting 6,000 housing solutions right across Jamaica," he said.

Meanwhile, Friday's presentation to Sawyers signified a fresh start after he lost his home to a fire years ago. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for his new home, sharing that there was a time when he had lost all hope after his dwelling was destroyed by fire.

"But this [new home] is a gift of a lifetime, because I never dreamed of seeing where I would get this. So I thank you Mr Prime Minister for your wonderful gift," he said.