Persons Continue to Benefit from Land-Titling Programme in St. James West Central

Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, says the land-titling programme that has been implemented in St. James West Central continues to aid persons in need.

“Land is a big issue, not only in St. James West Central but right across Jamaica. I am pleased to say that I have put in a land-titling project; it’s an ongoing project and I thank the CDF (Constituency Development Fund) Committee for approving the project when it was sent,” she said.

“We assist those who cannot fully afford getting their titles, many of them are on lands that titles have been prepared for, but for one reason or the other they have not been able to complete the transaction,” she added.

Mrs. Malahoo Forte, who is also Member of Parliament for the area, provided details during her contribution to the State of the Constituency Debate in the House of Representatives on November 28.

She also informed that through the project, persons are provided with financial assistance.

“I am pleased to say that many have been assisted and we are still identifying others who can be assisted. There is much to be done by way of surveys, sorting out competing claims to possession, ensuring that boundaries are properly identified when it is work in progress, and in this regard it is important for constituents to know that not only are we providing financial assistance, not only have I provided financial assistance, but more importantly, we have taken steps to simplify the law to ensure that the title can be obtained easier,” she said.

Meanwhile, she informed that young persons from the constituency have been engaged in various initiatives being undertaken by the Government.

“Eight young persons from the constituency are now being trained under the Learning and Investment for Transformation (LIFT) Programme; and 15 young persons from the constituency are awaiting full enrolment into the National Squatter survey programme,” she said.

Furthermore, she said a $4-million comprehensive community sign project is being undertaken and will be rolled out soon.

“Through the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job creation, and in particular the urban renewal and development project for communities, we’re doing a comprehensive community sign project at a value of $4 million, and I personally went across the constituency with the team, so the programme is far advanced and we will roll out the finished product in short order,” she said.