PM Thanks Shelter Staff at Petersfield High School

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has thanked the shelter staff at the Petersfield High School in Westmoreland, for maintaining safety, hygiene, and access to essential services, following the passage of hurricane melissa.

Speaking at a Christmas treat for senior citizens held at the institution on December 13, Dr. Holness said the local officials must be commended for their “effective coordination, order, and care” as the community navigates the aftermath of the storm.

He said their work has been integral in keeping residents safe and informed, while noting that the government has been responding to reports about hygiene, water access, food and nutrition, and overall safety, with targeted measures designed to make the temporary stay as comfortable as possible.

“Comfort is not a word you associate with this situation, and I understand that. The shelter is not a long-term solution, and no one here wants to remain longer than necessary. Our goal is to ensure that when you leave here, you are not in a worse position than you were before,” Dr. Holness said.

He underscored that reopening schools is a crucial marker of recovery and called on residents to work with government officials to create a pathway to better conditions.

To support this effort, he announced ongoing engagement with key ministers and social service agencies, who have been meeting with residents to discuss personalised solutions.

The Prime Minister also outlined several pathways for affected residents, including assistance for those who have nowhere to go, as well as options for families whose homes were damaged or destroyed.

He explained that for some, a place to reside will be found immediately, while others may require transitional arrangements until permanent housing is secured.

Dr. Holness noted that a key element of the plan includes a formal assessment process led by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr.

He said the Government has deployed a satellite-based approach to assess properties and compile a comprehensive list of impacted households, collecting names, Taxpayer Registration Numbers (TRN), and identification cards to prepare for grants.

The current assessment figures indicate that 45,000 houses have been evaluated, with estimates suggesting up to 150,000 dwellings damaged and approximately 40,000 completely destroyed.

Dr. Holness said grants will be disbursed in three tiers, as follows: moderate to minor damage; moderate to severe damage; and extreme damage.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister cautioned residents that accountability measures will be in place where names will be recorded, and grants will be tracked to ensure proper use.

“There need not be any antagonism or conflict. I am your servant, and I am your steward. Our objective is clear: move from relief to recovery swiftly and efficiently, deliver targeted support, and reopen schools in January as a sign of return to normalcy and hope for families across Petersfield and Jamaica at large,” he stated.