JSIF Commended

The Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) has been commended by Local Government and Rural Development Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, for the significant work being done by the organisation.

“This is one public entity that deserves honour and respect because of their commitment and the fact that they have delivered more than they have committed on many, many occasions,” the Minister said.

He was speaking recently at the official opening of the Yallahs Fire Station in St. Thomas by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness.

“Mr. (Omar) Sweeney (Managing Director) and the team, thank you and we are grateful. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development appreciates it,” Mr. McKenzie said.

As an entity, the JSIF is charged with implementing major investment projects to improve the socio-economic welfare of Jamaicans, particularly citizens in vulnerable communities. These include building, upgrading and repairing schools, hospitals, road infrastructure, water systems and community spaces.

Furthermore, Managing Director Sweeney was recently conferred with the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) for contribution to Public Service, during this year’s National Honours and Awards Ceremony, held at King’s House.

In his address at the new fire station, Mr. Sweeney said that the facility will provide the necessary resource and protection to more than 95,000 residents, aligning with the JSIF’s mandate of poverty alleviation and the protection of vulnerable communities.

“It is important that these investments are made to improve the resilience and the security of citizens, businesses and residents. It’s been our honour to be a part of this development in the parish of St. Thomas,” Mr. Sweeney said.

The station was built at a cost of $162.9 million under the JSIF’s Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP). It was completed in partnership with the Local Government Ministry, through a loan agreement between the Government and the World Bank.