Holness: $75m for churches is for clean-up, not reconstruction

The Government’s $75-million allocation to churches damaged by Hurricane Melissa is not for reconstruction but to assist with debris removal and property clean-up, says Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness.

"This funding is not for reconstruction. It is to assist churches that have suffered damage, such as collapsed roofs and walls, and need support to clear debris before repairs can start," Holness said in a statement posted to his social media accounts on Monday.

Holness said reports suggesting the funds were intended to rebuild church structures were inaccurate and required clarification.

“Our churches are an essential part of our communities and indeed our nation and they too have been impacted by Hurricane Melissa,” the prime minister added.

He explained that the funding forms part of a broader national clean-up exercise, with special focus on the five parishes most affected by the storm.

Holness said churches may access the support after assessments are carried out by the relevant state agencies, and that congregations should contact their local offices for guidance.

"As in past disasters, the Government is also working with church groups to put arrangements in place for affordable financing to assist with reconstruction," the prime minister said.

Holness' comments follow public controversy over the allocation that he announced on December 23.

Everald Warmington, a member of Holness' party and the MP for St Catherine South Western, has criticised the decision.

"There's a separation of church and state. So, I don't see why the government would be stepping up to rebuilding these churches. It's not our duty. I'm not against the church. I'm a part of the church. ...Taxpayer funds should not be going to religious institution, organisation in this fashion," said Warmington in an interview with Television Jamaica.

His comments were rejected by Bishop Dr Alvin Bailey, president of the Jamaica Evangelical Alliance, who accused the lawmaker of displaying “gross ignorance and insensitivity”.

Bailey pointed to the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, which left hundreds of churches damaged or destroyed, particularly in western Jamaica. He also highlighted the role of faith-based organisations in disaster response, education, social services and community support.

“From his own admission, the Church is one of the two fundamental constructs of the Nation. The State being the other. The decision of his government to give money to the Church should be very instructive, temper his arrogance, and wisely advise him against insensitive utterances,” Bailey said.

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, has said the Social Development Commission will manage assessments and disbursement of the funds.

Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica on October 28 as the strongest storm make landfall. It killed at least 45 persons and left over US$8.8 billion in damage. More than two months later, dozens of communities remain without power.

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