JTA says timeline for relocation of school shelter occupants not ideal

The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) says the Government's announced timeline for removal of Hurricane Melissa shelter occupants from school compounds appears "longer than is ideal".

In a statement to the media on Monday, the JTA welcomed the announcement from the government of the relocation of people being housed in schools.

However, it took issue with the May 8 removal timeline saying it's not ideal "given the continued impact on schools, educators, and students."

"The Association therefore encourages all relevant authorities to expedite the process where possible," it said.

The Association said it will be closely monitoring implementation and expects that the stated timeline will be met.

Last Thursday, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development announced the timeline for persons still housed in school shelters following Hurricane Melissa to be relocated to suitable accommodations.

The ministry noted that as of April 9, only eight schools remained in use as shelters, accommodating a total of 81 individuals.

The JTA president, Mark Malabver, had earlier hit out at recent remarks by Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie concerning the sheltering of persons at schools, calling the inconvenience to students and teachers unacceptable.

Malabver said that the association had received reports of students and teachers being unable to use their classrooms where shelterees engage in unsavoury activities while occupying the buildings.

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