Minister with responsibility for Land Titling and Land Settlements in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Robert Montague, toured project sites in Westmoreland yesterday (July 28, 2026), to review progress under the Government’s Semi-Permanent Housing Solutions Implementation Programme, as work continues to restore safe, dignified housing for vulnerable families displaced by Hurricane Melissa.
Minister Montague was joined on the tour by Member of Parliament for Central Westmoreland, Hon. Dwayne Vaz, and officials from partner ministries and agencies. The day’s activities began at the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) facility in Luana, St. Elizabeth, where more than 100 semi-permanent housing units donated by the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China are being securely stored ahead of deployment.
The delegation also visited the Petersfield/Shrewsbury cluster, which will provide approximately 50 housing units for displaced families, particularly those who have been living in emergency shelters. The first 20 units will be supported by essential infrastructure, including sewage systems, road access, and other basic services.
Minister Montague stressed that the programme is designed to ensure that assistance reaches families who genuinely qualify.
“It is not political. It is about helping Jamaicans who have suffered devastating loss and need a safe place to live. If you qualify, you will receive assistance regardless of your political affiliation,” the Minister said.
He noted that foundation works are already under way and emphasised that the programme has been carefully designed to ensure accountability.
“This is the first time Jamaica has undertaken an initiative of this nature, and we have taken the necessary time to ensure proper governance, accountability and value for money”, the Minister noted.
Minister Montague said the National Housing Trust (NHT) is financing the housing units at Shrewsbury. He added that, under the direction of Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, the NHT will reserve land within new housing developments across the five hurricane-affected parishes to accommodate eligible beneficiaries who do not own land.
The Minister explained that while registered land titles are not required, beneficiaries must have documented permission to occupy the land on which a unit is to be installed.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Central Westmoreland, Hon. Dwayne Vaz, welcomed the progress and said the arrival of the housing units has renewed hope for residents who have endured months of hardship.
“Seeing these houses here today gives people real hope. There is still work to be done, but families can now see that the promise is becoming a reality,” he said.
The Member of Parliament further noted that many displaced residents continue to live with relatives, friends, or in temporary structures, making the programme an important step towards restoring normality and helping families rebuild their lives.
The Government of Jamaica is financing the supporting infrastructure required for the installation of the units, including site preparation, reinforced foundations, sanitation systems, rainwater harvesting facilities, and where necessary, solar power systems.
The programme is being implemented through a coordinated partnership involving the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (MEGID); the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development; the Ministry of Labour and Social Security; the Jamaica Defence Force; the Jamaica Constabulary Force; the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM); the Social Development Commission (SDC); the National Housing Trust (NHT) and the Municipal Corporations.