KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mayoral candidate Markland Edwards has welcomed the news that the Government is in the process of acquiring land in the Greater Bernard Lodge development in St Catherine to construct a Type C hospital.

“This will be a total game-changer for local families in Portmore,” an enthusiastic Edwards told Observer Online.

“This is phenomenal news for the people of Portmore! I would like to congratulate the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the residents of the ‘Sunshine City’ on this massive milestone,” Edwards said.

Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton revealed the new developments on Wednesday while responding to questions from reporters following a tour of the Greater Portmore Health Centre.

The health centre, which is currently undergoing expansion, is taking place as Portmore moves closer to attaining parish status.

“The transition toward parish status is a historic move, and securing land for a Type C hospital in the Greater Bernard Lodge development is a brilliant step in ensuring the infrastructure matches that ambition,” Edwards said.

“It is incredibly heartening to see that the Greater Portmore Health Centre expansion, which is already 65 per cent complete, will have a functional ‘mini-hospital’ by mid-year.”

Dr Tufton also indicated that additional health facilities in Portmore are being assessed for future upgrades and expansion as part of the Government’s broader health infrastructure development programme. Edwards is pleased that this move will significantly improve access to healthcare for Portmore’s growing population.

“Kudos to Dr Christopher Tufton and the Government for prioritising accessible, modern healthcare for this rapidly growing community. This investment isn’t just about buildings; it’s about a healthier, more secure future for every ‘Portmore-ian,” Edwards, who is a native of Portmore, said.