ST JAMES, Jamaica — State Minister in the Ministry of National Security and Peace, Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, says the Government is accelerating the restoration of police facilities impacted by Hurricane Melissa under the Accelerated Infrastructure Restoration (AIR) Plan.

The plan leverages emergency procurement protocols and strong institutional partnerships to fast-track construction, repairs, and upgrades.

“This initiative is a rapid, coordinated, mission-driven plan designed to quickly assess and restore damaged facilities, re-establish full functionality to affected stations, maintain uninterrupted policing services, support national disaster recovery, and ensure the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) can continue safeguarding public safety at all times,” Cuthbert-Flynn said.

She was speaking at the official opening ceremony for the Little London Police Station in Westmoreland on Friday.

Assessments reveal that approximately 140 police facilities across the island sustained varying levels of damage, with 53 requiring emergency restoration. Of those, 33 experienced extensive structural damage.

Westmoreland was among the hardest-hit parishes, with severe roof damage at the Bethel Town, Bluefields, Darliston, Savanna-la-Mar, and Whitehouse police stations.

“I am pleased to report that the roof of Bethel Town has already been replaced, thanks to the leadership of Commissioner of Police, Dr Kevin Blake, his team, and some very dedicated partners who mobilised quickly to stabilise some of the affected stations,” Cuthbert-Flynn noted.

She praised the resilience of the police officers, particularly those who serve in the hurricane-impacted locations.

“Some were serving from stations covered by tarpaulin, without electricity, with damaged roofs but still provided that critical police service to the public. That is commitment, that is sacrifice, that is service above self,” she affirmed.

She noted that, as the ministry continues implementing the AIR Plan, newly built and restored facilities will include enhanced disaster-resilient features that support continuity of operations.

Cuthbert-Flynn said the Government remains unwavering in its mission to strengthen public safety and ensure that the JCF operates from modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that reflect the standards of a capable and resilient security force.

“We remain committed to improving public safety, strengthening the JCF, and ensuring that Jamaica’s policing infrastructure reflects the modern, capable, and resilient force that our country deserves,” she added.

–       JIS