KINGSTON, Jamaica — A resolution requesting the withdrawal of $17.2 million from the Equalisation Fund of the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation  (KSAC) received overwhelming support at a meeting of the Council today.

The funds are to effect urgent repairs to sanitary facilities in the markets and arcades.

The resolution outlined that the fixtures and plumbing in 13 of the 18 markets and arcades in Kingston and St. Andrew are “old, outdated, inefficient and in some instances, in a state of disrepair.”

Noting that the KSAC is not in a position to undertake financing of the project at this time, it called for the $17.2 million, to “undertake the construction, repairs and renovations to these facilities.”

The conveniences serve not only customers and vendors, but also the general public.

80 per cent of the vendors in these markets are women who sometimes spend long hours making a living there, the resolution said.

Councillors from both sides of the aisle gave their support.