Labour Ministry defends hurricane assistance to disabled man after video criticising gov’t’s relief efforts

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is maintaining that it has provided the necessary support to a disabled man who was affected by Hurricane Melissa, after he posted a video online criticising the Government over the level of assistance given to him and other victims of the storm.

The man, who has no arms, expressed that he has faced hardship since the storm.

He also backed recent criticisms made by veteran dancehall entertainer Beenie Man against the Government over its handling of hurricane relief efforts, charging that he and others have not received much help.

The Government has pushed back against the remarks made by the entertainer.

Responding to the man, the Labour Ministry, in a statement today, highlighted that he had received several forms of assistance, including a $500,000 housing recovery grant.

The Ministry said it recognised the hardship faced by families whose homes and livelihoods were damaged by the hurricane, particularly persons with disabilities, who often require additional support to recover and rebuild.

It said the man received emergency evacuation by air from the affected community at the time of the storm, food, a mattress, cleaning supplies and other relief items.

The Ministry also said referrals were made to partner organisations for consideration of further assistance.

In addition to the housing recovery grant, it said the man received a $38,000 food assistance grant through a humanitarian partner.

The Labour Ministry further noted that support was provided through the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, facilitated by the individual's Member of Parliament.

Regarding the housing grant, it said the man's circumstances as a person with a disability were taken into account, resulting in an allocation higher than would ordinarily apply to the assessed level of damage to his dwelling.

The Ministry said it acknowledged that recovery is a process and that individuals may continue to face challenges even after receiving assistance.

It said it remained committed to ensuring that assistance is delivered fairly, transparently and with sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable Jamaicans, including persons with disabilities.

The Labour Ministry encouraged anyone with outstanding concerns about assistance received to engage it through its established channels so that their circumstances can be reviewed and addressed.

It said its priority remained the dignity, welfare and recovery of every Jamaican affected by Hurricane Melissa.

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