Major Stories

Opposition Proposes Solution for Little Bay/Brighton Lands

The Opposition is urging the government to immediately use its powers under the Local Improvements or Community Amenities Act to achieve a peaceful and reasonable settlement for the residents of Little Bay, Westmoreland.

Following Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ meeting with residents disputing their rights to some 800 acres of beachfront property, he explained to the settlers that the matter was a private one and that there is little the government could do, except to ensure their proper resettlement.

The People’s National Party (PNP) is suggesting an interim measure. They are urging the government to immediately use its powers under the Local Improvements or Community Amenities Act – which would empower the Minister of Housing, to declare specified land to be absent of orderly development -in order to achieve a peaceful and reasonable settlement of the simmering impasse. This would freeze all evictions and new tenancies while a development plan for the land is prepared.

The PNP believes that the use of this law is the best course of action to quell fears and tensions in the area and allow for a mediated settlement to be found that reasonably balances the interests of the existing residents and the landowner. The Opposition notes this was a suggestion made by the lawyers earlier this year and that the statutory mechanism should be implemented with urgency, as it enables the government to lawfully forestall further action to evict the residents and create the opportunity for mediation. 

He says it would be irresponsible and unacceptable for the government to remain passive amidst the imminent threat of destruction of the long-established homes and businesses.

The Opposition is calling on the Prime Minister who oversees the housing portfolio, to move with haste to forge the win-win solution that the law puts him in the unique position to pursue, and avoid the further deterioration of an already dangerous situation. More details below:

Watch more stories: https://www.cvmtv.com/category/news/major-stories/

Recent Posts

⁩ 8 PEOPLE ARRESTED IN ILLEGAL SLAUGHTERHOUSE MATTER

An illegal slaughterhouse was uncovered at Big Lane, Central Village, St. Catherine, around 7 AM…

1 day ago

Government Wins Appeal in Court Ruling on Paula Llewellyn’s Tenure

The Court of Appeal has ruled in favour of the government regarding the tenure of…

2 days ago

FLOW Reports Major Vandalism of Fibre Cables in Half-Way Tree

Flow Jamaica is reporting severe vandalism that has disrupted services for numerous customers in the…

2 weeks ago

CHEC Selected As Main Contractor for Multi-Billion Dollar SPARK Programme

The Government of Jamaica has signed $36 billion in road network contracts and announced an…

2 weeks ago

Indecom to Offer Oversight in Mas Camp Incident Allegedly Including Off-Duty Police

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) will provide oversight regarding the Mas Camp incident, which…

3 weeks ago

New Integrity Commission Reports Reach Parliament

The Integrity Commission has submitted an investigation report and an indicative ruling from its director…

3 weeks ago