From recovery to reconstruction

The recovery phase triggered by the devastation wrought when Hurricane Melissa ripped through western Jamaica last October is officially coming to an end, with focus now set to be shifted to reconstruction.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness made the announcement yesterday while warning that penalties will be imposed on persons who misuse government-issued hurricane housing grants.

Holness’ disclosure came as he was delivering the keynote address during the official launch of the Chester Creek housing development in Chester Castle, Portmore, St Catherine.

“The launch of Chester Creek takes place against a backdrop, not so much of the destruction of Hurricane Melissa, but more so against the backdrop of a phenomenal recovery,” the prime minister said.

“And I am pleased to report that this recovery has outpaced expectations, indeed, outpaced the recovery of some of our peers who were hit.

“For electricity, I can say that we are 98 per cent restored. For water, we are at 97 per cent restored. Agricultural output has rebounded more quickly than anticipated, and, perhaps, more encouraging, inflation has come in below what we have anticipated, and this has enabled the Bank of Jamaica to reduce to 5.5 per cent in February 2026, which is a huge deal,” Holness said.

“So we are in a position where we can officially close the recovery period, reminding that the relief phase of the disaster response was officially closed in January.

“So I am announcing that the Government will officially close the recovery phase of the response, and all it means is that the Government will now shift to another phase of the response, and that is the reconstruction phase.”

FOCUS ON RELIEF AND RECOVERY

He clarified that both phases were operating simultaneously, but more emphasis was placed on the relief and recovery phases.

Holness noted that housing straddles both phases and that roof restoration would continue into reconstruction as housing grants were still being distributed.

The prime minister charged recipients to use the funds for their intended purpose, declaring that he had asked the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency to get involved and had tasked the Ministry of Labour and Social Security with conducting audits of grant beneficiaries.

In the meantime, Peter Melhado, chief executive officer of ICD Group, said Chester Creek represents West Indies Home Contractors’ (WIHCON) ongoing housing programme in Portmore.

“The demand for quality, affordable housing remains strong, particularity among young families seeking stability and opportunity,” he said, pledging that WIHCON’s responsibility is to respond to that demand.

Marvin Campbell, chief executive officer of WIHCON, described Chester Creek as a major investment opportunity.

“Chester Creek offers one of the most affordable townhouse solutions currently on the market without compromising on quality and community that we deliver on,” he noted.

He revealed that the development consists of 328 townhouses to be completed in four phases.

The gated community will feature 24-hour security and amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse, gym with equipment, playground for children, and a walking trail. It is also located in the proximity of shopping centres and other amenities.

ICD Chairman Joseph M. Matalon touted the project, saying its success was deliberate.

“It was as a result of vision, engineering courage, and a national commitment to solving a very real problem,” he said while reflecting on the history of the 60-year-0ld Portmore community and the role the Matalon family played in its early development.

ruddy.mathison@gleanerjm.com