Millions allocated for trucking water amid drought

As drought conditions continue to impact at least three parishes across the country, Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie has announced a $30-million allocation to municipal corporations in selected parishes for the trucking of water to affected communities.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management reported recently on drought conditions facing the parishes of Clarendon, St Catherine and Portland.

Speaking at the post-Cabinet press briefing, which resumed yesterday after months of inactivity, McKenzie said that his ministry would also provide $50 million to finance an islandwide mitigation programme in critical areas of the country that are prone to flooding.

McKenzie also told journalists that some $35 million would be allocated "to create the climate for improved conditions" in the community of Douglas Castle, St Ann, which was severely affected by flooding.

The drought-mitigation programme is being spear-headed by the Ministry of Local Government, which has responsibility for minor water supplies.