Gov’t advances relocation efforts for Coopers Pen residents as November 30 deadline to leave property approaches

October 21, 2026

The Government is advancing relocation efforts for Coopers Pen Residents in Trelawny, as the November 30 deadline for them to leave the property approaches.

The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development says it’s actively assisting with the relocation of residents.

This followed a demolition exercise in August, that displaced several residents.

The Government has been assisting the residents and relocated 19 households on September 19 at a cost of approximately $10 million.

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says a decanting site has been prepared to accommodate a small number of vulnerable persons in extreme emergency situations temporarily, who do not have immediate alternative accommodation as the relocation deadline draws near.

The Prime Minster says meetings and engagements have been held with the 100 affected households.

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According to Dr. Holness, while the Government’s effort at this time is focused on ensuring the dignified relocation of affected households, it must also ensure respect for the rule of law, the frugal use of taxpayers’ funds, the equitable development of policy to be applied in similar circumstances, and the protection of property rights.

The Ministry says beyond the current process of assisting the affected households of Coopers Pen, the Government will not intervene in private matters concerning the repossession of the land or in the rulings of the courts.

It says it notes the deadline issued for persons to relocate and recommend that affected households make every effort to comply.