PNP raps Gov’t over failure to deliver funds promised for annual Christmas work programme
The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has accused the Government of failing to deliver on its promise, of $22 million per constituency for the annual mitigation and clean-up programme.
The programme was previously referred to as the Christmas work programme.
The PNP, in a statement, noted that Prime Minister Andrew Holness gave the assurance in November that the funds would have been provided. However, it said many constituencies, including those in Clarendon, Manchester, St Mary, St Ann, and St Andrew, are yet to receive the promised funds.
The Opposition said the Government has failed to deliver payment to workers who were employed on most of the projects under the programme, including most of those implemented by the National Works Agency (NWA).
“While some constituencies have received their allocation, the bulk of the clean-up work in most areas was completed in good faith by workers who trusted the Government’s word. Now, these workers are left unpaid, creating significant financial hardship during what should have been a season of joy and togetherness,” the statement said.
According to the Opposition, no support or answers have been provided by the NWA or the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), adding to the frustration.
“The PNP believes these workers deserve not only immediate payment but also an apology from the Government for failing to honour its commitments.
“This isn’t just a matter of poor timing; it’s a matter of poor governance,” said Richard Azan, Opposition Spokesman for Road and Works.
“The workers have done their part. They completed the clean-up work in good faith, trusting that the Government would honour its promise. Now, they are left unpaid and in distress. These hardworking Jamaicans deserve an apology and immediate action to pay what is owed to them,” Azan added.
He said the PNP is demanding urgent answers from the Government including:
1. When will the workers be paid?
2. When will the remaining constituencies receive their promised funds?
3. Why have the NWA and NSWMA failed to provide the required support?
Azan said the PNP reiterates its call for transparency, accountability, and fairness in addressing this issue and ensuring that all Jamaicans are treated with the respect they deserve.
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