KINGSTON, Jamaica — A massive islandwide derelict vehicle removal programme will commence shortly, says Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie.

Making his contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on May 28, McKenzie said that the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has acquired four new crane trucks, which will facilitate the undertaking.

“We continue to improve public cleanliness through historic investments in collection units for the National Solid Waste Management Authority. We will focus on removing old cars and other types of bulky waste, which are eyesores and health hazards to the country,” the minister pointed out.

“The entity is now in a position to target abandoned vehicles. You have garage operators who have taken over the streets, operating garages 24/7 without any respect. The NSWMA is now in possession of four brand-new crane trucks. I am announcing a massive islandwide derelict vehicle removal programme that will be carried out shortly,” he added.

McKenzie said the Government will continue to change the face of Jamaica in a fundamental way.

“It is difficult, especially for those persons who are physically impaired and disabled, to access our sidewalks because used-car owners take them over, garage operators take them over. It is creating a nightmare, and I call on the country to unite in this effort to rid our streets of this kind of danger,” he said.

In addition, the minister said eight specialised Scout trucks have been obtained and will be used to collect solid waste from hard-to-reach areas in communities across the country.

— JIS