National survey of informal settlements near completion

The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development is nearing completion of a national survey of informal settlements that will provide the data needed to inform a new policy framework for addressing squatting across Jamaica.

Chief Technical Director (CTD) for Housing, Urban Renewal and Projects at the Ministry, Authrine Scarlett, said the survey has been completed in 13 of the island’s 14 parishes and is expected to begin in St James by the end of September.

Addressing a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank on September 23, Scarlett said the survey will provide Government with comprehensive, evidence-based information on the number and characteristics of squatter settlements, including their socioeconomic conditions and infrastructure needs.