Gov't to identify lands for Portland squatters

The Ministry of Transport and Works has instructed the Social Development Commission (SDC), to identify lands for the re-settlement of squatters, who were evicted in July from a property in Portland owned by the Jamaica Railway Corporation.

The Ministry said the SDC will also conduct a survey of the current households that have been affected by the eviction and demolition of houses which were located at the Bryan’s Bay Beach in Port Antonio.

The squatter settlements were demolished to allow for the divestment of the railway’s operations.

The Transport Minister Dr. Omar Davies has requested that the SDC assist with the management of squatter removal in preparation for the privatisation programme.

He said the commission is expected to complete its work by the end of September and will advise him of its findings and recommendation.

radio@gleaner.com