The Government remains committed to leveraging macroeconomic stability for transformative and inclusive growth, while addressing climate change challenges, says Custos of Kingston, Hon. Steadman Fuller.
Deputising for Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, he delivered the Throne Speech, marking the ceremonial opening of Parliament for 2025/26, on Thursday, February 13.
Custos Fuller outlined the Government’s achievements and future plans, with a particular focus on the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation’s initiatives.
At the top of the agenda was climate resilience and sustainable development.
He said Jamaica approved its 2050 Long-Term Emissions Reduction and Climate Resilient Strategy in 2024/2025, demonstrating its dedication to environmental sustainability.
He also noted that the Portmore Resilience Park is set for completion by 2025/2026, exemplifying a commitment to enhancing wellness and climate resilience.
In terms of housing and infrastructure, Custos Fuller cited the New Social Housing Programme (NSHP), which has made significant strides, delivering “280 housing units with 648 rooms, impacting 968 individuals across 57 constituencies”.
He said this achievement underscores the Government’s focus on improving living conditions for Jamaicans.
Custos Fuller noted that major infrastructure projects are nearing completion or progressing well.
The Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project is “95 per cent complete, enhancing connectivity and socio-economic equity”, he stated.
Additionally, the Montego Bay Perimeter Road is “on track for completion by mid-2026”, the Custos said.
The Special Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Programme continues to upgrade “roadways, drainage, water, sewerage, and broadband infrastructure” in Kingston, St. Andrew, and St. Catherine, improving urban living conditions, he added.
Meanwhile, the Custos said the Shared Prosperity Through Accelerated Improvement to Our Road Network (SPARK) Project, “a $45 billion, three-year initiative”, was launched in December 2024 to improve secondary, local, and community roads while upgrading water infrastructure.
“Work will be under way on 126 roads across all constituencies by March 2025,” the Custos said.
He noted that efforts to improve water access are ongoing, with the construction of the Rio Cobre Water Treatment Plant set to begin in March 2025.
Rural water supply projects have already “benefited 13,500 citizens, with the 2025/2026 expansion set to impact 45,000 more,” the Custos said.
At the same time, the Government is advancing key legislative reforms, including the Construction Industry Policy revision by Financial Year 2026/2027, amendments to environmental protection Acts, and the development of the Quantity Surveyors (Registration) Bill.
