Press Release From OPM - October 29, 2026
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| The Most Honourable Dr Andrew Holness |
Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness says the Government’s continued investment in critical infrastructure demonstrates its commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s resilience, improving preparedness and supporting recovery following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
“We come here to address the substance of the matters that affect you, to bring your water, your hospital and your Doppler radar. These investments demonstrate that the Government remains focused on the practical needs of the people and on building a more resilient Jamaica,” Prime Minister Holness
Speaking on Wednesday, October 28, at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Black River to Arlington Water Pipeline Project in St. Elizabeth, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of sustained investment in water infrastructure, healthcare and disaster preparedness as the country continues its recovery.
The $216 million water pipeline project will extend a pipeline from Black River to Arlington, with a smaller line running from Crane Road into Parottee. The project is expected to benefit between 8,000 and 10,000 people, while helping to alleviate persistent water shortages affecting residents in the communities.
The Prime Minister noted that the investment decision predated Hurricane Melissa and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to delivering essential infrastructure despite the significant economic and physical damage caused by the Category Five storm.
He pointed to the Black River Hospital reconstruction, the commissioning of the Doppler radar and the water pipeline project as evidence of the Government’s continued focus on strengthening the country’s capacity to withstand disasters and recover more quickly.
“Though we have been hit by a Category Five hurricane that wiped out a significant portion of our economic value, the Government did not buckle, and the country did not collapse. We continue to make the critical investments that support preparedness, recovery and resilience, because these are essential to protecting lives and livelihoods,” the Prime Minister stated.
Addressing the future of Parottee, Dr. Holness reiterated the Government’s intention to offer residents the option of relocation because of the community’s vulnerability to natural disasters. However, he emphasised that relocation would not mean abandoning the area or its economic potential.
The Prime Minister said the Government intends to support an alternative development model that preserves opportunities for fishing, ecotourism and other livelihood activities while reducing residential exposure to environmental hazards.
“The intention is not to abandon the area, but to develop it differently. While we encourage residents to consider relocation for their safety, we recognise the economic value of Parottee and will continue to explore opportunities that allow the area to support livelihoods through fishing, ecotourism and other activities,” Dr. Holness said.
The Prime Minister also urged Jamaicans to prioritise national recovery and resilience, stressing that the Government would continue providing factual information while advancing the critical investments needed to rebuild communities and strengthen the country against future disasters.
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