Focus on Local Government in November

The celebration of Local Government and Community Development Month in November will highlight the importance of local government to national development.

“Local Government is one of the most important drivers of economic activities,” said Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie.

“We have responsibility for roads, markets, parks, infirmaries, building plans… you name it. Eight per cent of what the country relies on is provided through local government. We continue to make a huge difference in the lives of the Jamaican people… and we take great pride in executing our responsibilities,” he added.

He was speaking at the launch of the Cross-Island Run in celebration of Local Government and Community Development Month 2018, at Independence Park, Westmoreland on October 10.

The Cross-Island Run is a precursor to the month-long celebration observed each year by the Ministry as well as its affiliated agencies and departments.

The runners will journey across Jamaica, delivering messages from the country’s leaders to mayors in the parish capitals.

The Minister invited the people of Westmoreland “to become partners with us on this journey as we do positive things right across the country”.

He told the residents that the Ministry will be working in conjunction with the National Housing Trust (NHT) to “spend a significant amount of money” to make the Westmoreland Infirmary more aesthetically appealing and comfortable for the residents.

“We are in the stage now of constructing a brand-new matron quarters. We are also now considering the building of a brand new ward to replace the old one, so as to improve the capacity at the facility,” he informed.