Boston Jerk Centre allowed to reopen

The Portland Health Department yesterday authorised the reopening of the Boston Jerk Centre in Portland.

Boston Jerk Centre, which is renowned internationally for its traditional and authentic jerk pork and other meals, was closed in January for several public health breaches.

Port Antonio Mayor Wayne McKenzie, who visited the food facility yesterday, expressed his delight at the reopening of the stalls as, according to him, the month-long closure had basically killed the life of Boston - as all businesses in and around were affected.

"I am pleased that the Ministry of Health has declared this jerk centre open," he said.

"It is quite clear that the health department is impressed with the renovation. The construction of a septic tank to collect animal waste and blood from the abattoir was critical to the reopening. Additionally, there were several other issues, including the construction of counters, wash basins, and garbage receptacles, which are now in place. And, of course, all the vendors are now dressed in black and white," he added.

Last Wednesday, when The Gleaner visited the facility, vendors were seen attending to customers, but later on during the day, a report from the health department revealed that no authorisation for normal operations to resume at the Boston jerk stalls was given.

However, yesterday, a feeling of appreciation from the approximately 30 vendors who were present was quite evident, as they were eager to speak with the media, acknowledging that the improvement work was necessary, as they seek to lift the standard of their product.