CLARENDON, Jamaica— Prime Minister Andrew Holness says he has observed an improvement in the Ministry of  Labour and Social Security’s (MLSS)  response to people in areas of Jamaica which were severely impacted by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.

He made the observation shortly after he visited members of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) who are based at a First Response Base at Portland Cottage in Clarendon.

“Generally, I have seen an improvement in the dispatch of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in the areas that have been affected. I have gotten reports that people are receiving their care packages and their tarpaulins and so forth,” Holness said.

However, he noted that there remains frustration among some residents about their circumstances after the passage of the category 4 hurricane. He moved to assure that progress is being made.

“Persons are frustrated about their water, they are frustrated about their electricity, and we are working double time to restore that. I know some areas in St Elizabeth have got back electricity, have gotten a few calls to say thank you, we have got back our electricity, but not enough. I am not here saying that the problem is solved, but I am here saying that the problem is being worked on and we are seeing results,” the prime minister said.

Holness also reported that there has been improvements in the function of the energy and telecommunications mechanisms in the parish of Clarendon compared to a few days ago.

“I was here two or three days ago, there were several down poles. On my way in, I saw the JPS crews working to restore poles. So I say to the people who are very frustrated now, please continue to have faith. Your electricity and your water will return and I know for most people, that’s what they want,” he said.

“They want their electricity and their water and they will find their way. There has been a marked improvement in telephone service. The last time I was here, I was cut off from all communications. I actually was able to make a few calls on my way in and around. So the service has improved,” Holness continued.

He added that work continues in earnest to restore the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Beryl to full functionality and there are incremental signs of movement towards recovery.

He assured that in the coming days, the Government intends to accelerate its response and the JDF and the ministries will be working together for synergy to ensure that the people of Jamaica, especially the people on the south coast, who were terribly hit by Hurricane Beryl, are properly served.