KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government will invest $200 million this year to expand capacity at care facilities, thereby easing overcrowding and freeing up bed space.

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, explained that the issue of social cases occupying hospital beds has been long-standing.

He noted that a special effort will be made this year to address the matter in collaboration with other ministries, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

McKenzie was making his 2026/27 Sectoral Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, work is under way to rebuild and relocate several infirmaries damaged by Hurricane Melissa across the parishes of Trelawny, Westmoreland, St Ann, and St Elizabeth.

A sum of $54 million has been allocated for the restoration of the St Elizabeth, Hanover, and Westmoreland infirmaries.

Minister McKenzie announced that new infirmaries will be built in Trelawny, St Elizabeth and St Ann.

In addition, a new wing will be constructed at the Spanish Town Infirmary in St Catherine this year at a cost of $70 million.

“We continue to put in the work in our infirmaries to strengthen them and make them places where people will feel comfortable. We are doing our best to ensure we have a safe place for these persons,” McKenzie stated.

Extensive upgrades were also carried out at several infirmaries.

At the St Thomas Infirmary, wards were improved; at the Hanover Infirmary, a new matron’s quarters was built; and at the St James Infirmary, a state-of-the-art kitchen and dining area were constructed to enhance meal services. These projects were completed at a combined cost of $44.9 million.

At the St Catherine Infirmary, a new therapeutic park and additional facilities have been constructed to enhance residents’ quality of life.

In the meantime, the Government has earmarked $160 million this year for the construction of additional indigent housing units.

Minister McKenzie noted that the work of building out a network of concrete indigent houses was curtailed by Hurricane Melissa.

—     JIS