Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has mandated an inter-ministerial committee, to implement a national programme to address public health and safety concerns.
The committee, which had its first meeting on Monday April 23 at Jamaica House has decided on the need for a major public education programme and collaboration of efforts involving various agencies and departments.
It also agreed to make the thrust part of a broader “Clean up Jamaica” campaign.
This comes a week after a public health report confirmed that there is a major rat problem in Kingston and St. Andrew.
Last week the KSAC revealed the results of a survey which showed that 87 percent of 120 communities assessed had rodent infestation.
The survey indicated that 50 percent had a very heavy infestation of rats.
15 to 49 percent had a heavy infestation and 12 to 15 percent classified as moderate.
The Waltham Park and Hagley Park Road areas showed a very high level of rodent infestation.
It's estimated that it will cost 200 million dollars to conduct a rodent eradication programme in the Corporate Area.
The committee which comprises the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministries of Agriculture, Health, Local Government, Education, Industry and the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation is to meet again this week to finalise its programme of action.
All feeds
