Additional $2 billion to be allocated to ROOFS Programme

October 24, 2026

The Government is to allocate an additional $2 billion to the Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) Programme.

Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness noted that the government is targeting assistance to 90% of Hurricane Melissa affected persons by December.

The allocation comes as the Prime Minister signals changes to improve efficiency across government and speed up the delivery of critical services in the hurricane recovery effort.

Speaking recently to a group of private sector leaders, Dr. Holness said announcements will be made in the coming days about making the public sector more functional and responsive to the needs of Jamaicans.

He also pointed to delays in the delivery of temporary modular housing units for affected persons, saying the challenges underscore the need for a more agile Government capable of responding quickly to crises and seizing opportunities for growth.

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The Prime Minister also criticised what he described as the self-serving nature of the bureaucracy, arguing that it is stifling economic freedom and growth.

He said the pace at which government business is conducted reflects the need for fundamental changes in how the public sector operates.

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He stressed that the planned changes are intended to strengthen the government’s capacity to respond to current challenges and improve service delivery.