$10m allocated for road patching in each constituency - PM

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced that each of the 63 constituencies is to be allocated $10 million to undertake immediate patching of roads across Jamaica.

There have been protests in several communities across Jamaica by residents calling for their roads to be fixed.

In Parliament yesterday, Holness acknowledged the damage done to the road network, particularly following recent heavy rains.

He said the money allocated is not intended for major repairs, but patching and general clean-up, especially of plastic bottles.

Holness also announced that the money is to be used for de-bushing of roads.

Acknowledging that there could be some cynicism about another de-bushing programme, Holness insisted this one is needed.

He also suggested how the money should be allocated for the three programmes of work.

Holness says the work will be paid for by the Road Maintenance Fund, the Tourism Enhancement Fund and the Consolidated Fund.

He says the Office of the Contractor General is to oversee the process to ensure it is transparent.