Over 25,000 Jamaicans in emergency shelters due to Melissa
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The number of Jamaicans taking refuge in emergency shelters has climbed to over 25,000, with more expected, amid devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Minister of Local Government told a news conference on Wednesday that the authorities are assessing how to deal with the numbers on a long-term basis.
He has also warned shelter operators that no one should be turned away and all shelters should remain open throughout this week.
McKenzie said assessments will be done to determine which shelters will stay open thereafter.
At the same time, McKenzie is urging Jamaicans to be patient as the post-Melissa response begins.
“It is not going to be an easy road Jamaica…It is going to take a lot of time. I know that persons’ patience is not gonna last for much longer, because when you are in need persons want us to break the rules,” McKenzie said.
He said while the government will do everything to ensure a speedy response and distribution of relief supplies, it has to ensure it follows protocols.
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