Young Jamaica (YJ), the youth arm of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has praised Prime Minister Andrew Holness for his recent initiative to hand over land titles to 300 residents of the Clifton community in Bernard Lodge, St. Catherine. These residents were displaced after their homes were demolished in October 2022, following a land scam that left them without legal ownership.
In a news release, Young Jamaica Central Coordinator Zukie Jarrett commended the Prime Minister’s decision, describing it as a “profound act of compassion and leadership.” Jarrett highlighted that the provision of land titles not only restores dignity and security to the affected families but also reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of all citizens.
“This gesture not only restores dignity and security to the affected families but also underscores a deep commitment to the well-being of all citizens,” Jarrett stated.
The Prime Minister’s initiative addresses the immediate needs of the displaced residents while laying the groundwork for long-term community development and growth. With secure land tenure, the families can now access various government programs and services, fostering an environment of progress and prosperity.
The distribution of land titles was part of the Community Regularisation and Development Programme, implemented by SCJ Holdings, a government-owned entity dedicated to formalizing the occupation of informal communities around former sugar estates across the island. SCJ Holdings’ mission is to provide efficient land management services that support sustainable economic and social development in these communities.
Prime Minister Holness also announced that the Clifton area would benefit from a $15 billion project aimed at enhancing communities with limited infrastructure, further contributing to the long-term upliftment of the residents.
Jarrett emphasized that the Prime Minister’s actions reflect a leadership style that prioritizes the needs of the people. “The prime minister’s actions reflect a caring and compassionate leadership that puts people first. By recognizing the struggles of these families and taking concrete steps to alleviate their burdens, the prime minister has demonstrated an exemplary model of governance,” Jarrett argued.
This move by Prime Minister Holness is seen as a significant step in addressing the housing crisis and improving the living conditions of some of Jamaica’s most vulnerable citizens, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
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