KINGSTON, Jamaica — Parliament has approved a request by Prime Minister Andrew Holness this afternoon to extend the zone of special operations (ZOSO) in Mount Salem, St James by another 60 days.

Speaking in Parliament, Holness said: “In 60 days much has been achieved but much more is yet to be done. With the efforts thus far largely focussed on clearing and holding the space, an additional 60 days is now necessary to give focus to the build phase”.

He noted that in accordance with Section 5 of the Act, the Prime Minister in Council, after consultation with the Joint Command may by order subject to affirmative resolution of the House of Representatives extend the period referred to in Section 4(3), for such further periods.

During this period, he added, the Social Intervention Committee will be given the space to continue the work they have already commenced and are expected to increase their intensity and presence to improve social services and infrastructural investment while engaging citizens in the normalisation of their community.

Mount Salem was declared the island’s first ZOSO on September 1.

More information later.