Charles Jnr dismisses criticism about incompetent government administration of ROOFS programme

Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jnr has dismissed criticisms that the government is incompetent in its administration of the Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) programme.

His statement comes a day after Opposition Leader Mark Golding pointed to what he called weaknesses in the programme.

According to Mr. Golding, the ROOFS programme is hopelessly inadequate and is being incompetently administered.

Speaking at this morning’s Post Cabinet press briefing, Mr. Charles Jnr said the comment undermines the efforts of all those who have been working on the initiative.

He also rejected claims that many persons have not received benefits under the programme.

The minister noted that each household can only benefit from one initiative under government’s shelter recovery programme.

The other two principles are prioritising severity and targeting vulnerability.

Mr. Charles Jnr pointed out that of the ten billion dollars allocated for the ROOFS programme, nine was distributed to beneficiaries who fall under the major and severe categories.

He said the ministry made payments to all eligible beneficiaries.

He said this does not mean that those who have not yet received support are forgotten.