Four of six containers that will house infirmary in Trelawny in place

Four of the six prefabricated containers designated for the new Falmouth Infirmary have now arrived on site, marking a significant step in efforts to rehouse residents who were displaced following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

This was announced by Mayor of Falmouth, Councillor Collen Gager, at the Trelawny Municipal Corporation’s monthly meeting held at the Falmouth Artisan Village on March 12.

The containers form part of a $150-million initiative announced by the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, to establish temporary yet fully functional accommodation units at a new location for the infirmary.

“Works are steadily moving along. We hope to have the residents relocated as soon as everything is completed,” Gager said.

The project has also received private-sector support.

The Sandals Group has donated four air-conditioning units, while Geddes Refrigeration has provided air conditioning for all wards in the new facility.

Gager noted that the parish has often led the way in innovations in local government services.

“It is the first of its kind in an infirmary setting, and Trelawny is always noted for being first in many of the initiatives undertaken through local government,” he said, noting that Falmouth was also among the first to receive facilities such as a Drop-In Centre.

The mayor also expressed optimism that the project will inspire greater use of container structures as viable living spaces in the future.

“I know the whole of Jamaica will be coming here to see how these containers can be transformed into living spaces for our residents,” he added.

Meanwhile, Gager noted that while the residents are eager for the infirmary to reopen, he urged them to remain patient as work continues.

“I know the residents are anxious. Just hold on, your home will soon be finished, and for that we in Trelawny are grateful,” he said.

- JIS News

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