The Government has signed a US$987,822 contract with Rosenbauer for the acquisition of two new trucks for the Jamaica Fire Brigade. The units, which are slated to be in the island by next year, will be built in Minneapolis, United States, at the facilities of Rosenbauer America. Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie; Commissioner, Jamaica Fire...

The Government will be providing an update on the performance of the disaster preparedness agencies, following the recent passage of Hurricane Matthew to the east of Jamaica. An assessment of the processes will also be done and adjustments made for greater efficiency. Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, speaking at a press briefing at the Office...

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, says that normal operations have returned to the country and the emergency systems set up in response to the threat of Hurricane Matthew have been deactivated. “The weather department (Meteorological Service) has discontinued the warnings, but we are still leaving in place certain response mechanisms, just in case it becomes...

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management is reporting that the National Emergency Operations Centre has scaled down activities to Level 1 Activation (Monitoring Phase), in light of the reduction in the threat level of Hurricane Matthew. The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management is also recommending a return to routine operations where possible. •The public transportation system...

The Government has stipulated that persons in storm shelters across the island are to be provided with food and other supplies upon entering the facilities. Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said previously, persons were required to take their own food and medications, with supplies provided to those who remain in the shelters after 72 hours....

The National Works Agency (NWA) has closed Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston to vehicular traffic. The area, which is prone to flooding, is being closed as the agency carries out emergency remedial work. “It’s a pre-emptive move and is based on what we experienced at the Tivoli Gully, which overflowed its banks yesterday (Oct. 2), carrying down a lot of...

Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, is commending the work of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) as the country prepares for the passage of Hurricane Matthew. He noted that the entity’s role in disaster planning, management and response is integral in reducing the impact of the system on the country. “The focus after the hurricane...