A shortage of banana and plantain can be expected across the island as a result of the damage caused by Hurricane Beryl. A detailed assessment conducted by the Banana Board reveals an average of 74 per cent damage in the sector. General Manager of the Banana Board, Janet Conie, who was speaking during a recent ‘JIS Get the Facts’ interview,...

The repair bill for the 362 schools damaged by Hurricane Beryl in July has exceeded $3 billion. Preliminary estimates to undertake repairs were priced at $2.7 billion. The disclosure was made by Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, during Wednesday’s (August 28) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House. “Given that the number of schools assessed has increased, that...

Scores of persons across the parish of St. Catherine have received cash grants under the Government’s Rebuild Jamaica Initiative, to restore their homes that were damaged by Hurricane Beryl on July 3. The beneficiaries were presented with cheques by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., and other officials, at a ceremony held on August 27 at...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is partnering with the Government of the United Kingdom (UK), through its Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the World Food Programme (WFP) to provide critical cash grant assistance to Jamaicans most affected by Hurricane Beryl. This collaboration was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Ministry...

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, has expressed concern about the price gouging of agriculture products, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. Speaking during a media briefing at the Ministry’s offices in St. Andrew on Tuesday, Mr. Green said traders were allowed access to external markets to ensure the nation has adequate food supply. “Once we...

The Government has commenced the distribution of 10,000 hurricane roof straps to residents of Rocky Point and nearby areas in Clarendon that were severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl on July 3. Hurricane straps are metal connectors to reinforce the connection between the roof truss and the wall to minimise the risk of roof blow-off during extreme weather events. They are...

Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Fayval Williams, says repairs are ongoing at the 300-plus schools damaged during the passage of Hurricane Beryl, to ensure their readiness for the start of the 2024/25 academic year on September 2. “We have been meeting with our Regional Directors, with all our building officers, and if there’s a situation that they believe may...

Cricket fans are invited to enjoy thrilling action, family fun and exciting giveaways at the Social Development Commission (SDC) National T20 Cricket Competition finals on Sunday, August 25, at Chedwin Park in St. Catherine. The event is free to children under 12 years; however, those 12 years and older, along with adults, will pay a $1,000 fee. Public Relations Manager,...

Five thousand hurricane straps are to be provided for residents of Rocky Point in Clarendon by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, to aid in the rebuilding of houses following the passage of Hurricane Beryl. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said that the materials will be provided through the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and...