Minister of Labour and Social Security Tours Southern St. Elizabeth

Minister of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., on Friday (July 12) led a high-level government delegation on an extensive tour of southern St. Elizabeth, as part of a swift response to Hurricane Beryl’s devastation.

The tour aimed to assess the damage, engage with affected residents, and deliver immediate aid to the most vulnerable communities.

The delegation visited several hard-hit areas, including Bull Savannah, Tryall, Ballards Valley, and Newcombe Valley.

In his remarks, Minister Charles Jr. said the Ministry has been spearheading damage assessments, while simultaneously providing urgent relief in the form of food packages, tarpaulins, and bedding materials.

“So, if you lost zinc, shed or house, we are the Ministry that is going around and taking that information. We are also providing immediate relief,” he stated.

Mr. Charles Jr. encouraged community members to report any issues or challenges, and to inform authorities about neighbours who may require assistance.

“Your government is working to ensure that everyone can get back on their feet. We are going to build back stronger, we are going to recover and repair,” he indicated.

The Ministry also identified senior citizens for the Social Pension Programme and offered support for disabled residents.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Dr. the Hon. Norman Dunn, underscored the importance of building back stronger.

He advised residents to “use screws instead of nails” and to “install hurricane straps on roofs” to better withstand future storms.

Moreover, Dr. Dunn reminded the public that the hurricane season is ongoing and emphasized the need for sustainable reconstruction efforts.

“Let us protect each other, but you yourself do the best that you can to preserve yourself and livelihood,” he noted.

The relief initiative involved a collaborative effort among various government agencies and organizations, including the Social Development Commission, Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, St. Elizabeth Municipal Corporation, Poor Relief Department, Jamaica Defence Force, and Food for the Poor.

Meanwhile, State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Franklin Witter, expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s swift response in the ‘breadbasket’ parish.

He pointed out that firsthand assessment by Minister Charles Jr. and his team, is an appropriate response to the challenges faced by affected communities.

For his part, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, outlined the Government’s commitment to responding “quickly, effectively, and efficiently” to both hurricane-related damage and other ongoing social issues in the parish.

“We’re not turning a blind eye to that. We’re dealing with all of them in a comprehensive way,” he said.

Minister Charles Jr, and his team also toured parts of Manchester including Cross Keys, Grove Town, Woodland, Alman and Marley Hall.