Government Allocates Nearly $1.4 Billion for Constituency-Based Mitigation and Cleanup Efforts Amid Recent Severe Weather

Government Allocates Nearly $1.4 Billion for Constituency-Based Mitigation and Cleanup Efforts Amid Recent Severe Weather

In response to the effects of Tropical Storm Rafael and prolonged heavy rainfall in recent weeks, Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness has announced a major allocation for a nationwide mitigation and cleanup initiative.

Speaking in Parliament today, November 12, 2024, Prime Minister Holness outlined that $22 million will be allocated to each of the 63 Members of Parliament for the annual constituency-based mitigation and cleanup programme, totaling nearly $1.4 billion.

The programme, which will be implemented by the National Works Agency (NWA) and the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), focuses on critical efforts to clear roads, clean drains, collect garbage, and address sanitary conditions. The funds will be disbursed directly to necessary works without deductions for agency fees, ensuring efficiency and accountability.

Prime Minister Holness clarified the purpose of the allocation, stating, "Though this programme is being implemented just before the yuletide season, let me emphasize that it is not a Christmas work programme. This is a routine initiative with strict oversight, ensuring funds are utilised efficiently for road clearance, drain cleaning, garbage collection, and sanitation. It addresses specific priorities, including reopening blocked roads, drain cleaning, road repairs, and constructing retaining walls and other structures as necessary."

The allocation per constituency is structured as follows:

• $10 million for road rehabilitation, with flexibility to reallocate up to $5 million for a total of $15 million if required.
• $6 million for debushing, with the option to reallocate funds for a maximum of $9 million.
• $3 million for garbage collection, aiding dengue prevention efforts, with a reallocation potential of $2 million.
• $3 million for drain cleaning, with up to $2 million available for reallocation.

Recognizing that the needs of constituencies differ, the programme includes flexibility to allow Members of Parliament to adjust allocations based on the specific needs within their areas.
"This reallocation flexibility enables MPs to focus resources on the most pressing issues, be it road repair, sanitation, or drainage, to ensure our communities are safe and functional in the wake of these severe weather conditions," stated Prime Minister Holness.

In the meantime, the Prime Minister encouraged all Members of Parliament to act swiftly in organizing their respective programmes while following established procedures. The programme will run through to February 2025.