PM reports progress in Cooper's Pen relocation plan

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has reported significant progress with plans to relocate the first group of residents from the illegal settlement at Cooper's Pen, Trelawny.

The relocation is being done through collaboration involving the Ministry of Housing, the Social Development Commission, the Ministry of Tourism (through the Tourism Enhancement Fund), and the Jamaica Defence Force.

Dr Holness, speaking on Friday in Pedro, St. Catherine, said the resettlement process includes surveying suitable land, identifying infrastructure requirements and exploring relocation subsidies for persons who may require assistance to secure alternative housing, adding that “the strategy does not always involve the provision of land; sometimes, it is the grant of a relocation subsidy, and that is now being pursued.”

He added that the authorities will, “in the days to come, inform the public in more detail as to where we are, but I'm pleased to say, based upon their reports that I have received, that work has begun, and the progress is being made steadily.”

During a visit to Cooper's Pen in late August, following the demolition of 20 houses, the Prime Minister said he was targeting December for the start of the relocation for about 99 eligible residents.

The houses were knocked down during a demolition exercise on August 11, by a private land owner.