Gov’t Working to Relocate Persons Who Occupy Garvey Birthplace

Minister of Youth and Culture, Hon. Lisa Hanna, said the Ministry is working to resolve the issue of the relocation of persons, who occupy the childhood home of National Hero, Rt. Excellent Marcus Garvey.

Once the persons have been relocated, the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) can begin restoration of the St. Ann-based site.

“We have made a submission for resources to assist in this (relocation) effort.  We aim to start the refurbishing and restoration of the property by the anniversary of his next birthday (in August),” Ms. Hanna said.

“We are committed to preserving part of the legacy of this outstanding Jamaican,” the Minister said in her Sectoral Debate presentation on May 6.

She told the House that the JNHT continues to partner with other agencies for the protection and revitalisation of the country’s heritage sites, and is currently working with the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) and the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) to restore several areas.

She said the agency is streamlining the development of the historic town of Port Royal and, over the last 12 months, has been assisting with the restoration of major properties in the town.

“Currently, the Trust is working on the restoration of the Naval Hospital. Restoration work has been completed on the Admiralty House and H Block, both of which are being used as classroom spaces for the Caribbean Maritime Institute,” Minister Hanna informed.