Include the disabled in $500m housing programme - Morris

Opposition Senator Floyd Morris wants the government to include members of the disabled community in the pool of persons who are to benefit under the $500 million housing programme announced by Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Holness, in his address at the 75th annual conference of the governing Jamaica Labour Party last Sunday, said details of the programme are still being worked out, but indicated that it was aimed at building “reasonable” housing solutions for the poor and indigent islandwide.  

Morris welcomed the initiative, noting that it is aimed at the most vulnerable in the society.

However, the lawmaker, who is blind, yesterday urged the government to widen the pool of beneficiaries to include persons with disabilities.

“I am making an appeal for persons with disabilities, who are among the most vulnerable within our society and are in need of housing support,” said Morris, who was making his contribution to the State of the Nation Debate in the Senate.

“I am hoping that some of those houses will be built for persons with disabilities,” he added.

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