Government Commits to Continue Giving Back to Citizens through Sound Governance and A People-Centered Approach

“The only way to effectively address your long-term issues is to make strategic investments that generate revenue, which can then be substantially allocated to address the current pain points affecting you. Now, you have a government that can really change your situation for the long term.”
-Prime Minister Holness
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tangible, sustainable development, designed to benefit all citizens.
Speaking today (October 25) at a handing over ceremony of another Indigent Housing unit in St. Thomas, Prime Minister Holness highlighted the transformative changes taking place, particularly in underdeveloped parishes like St. Thomas.
Dr. Holness emphasized the progress made through prudent economic management and a people-centered approach to governance.
Prime Minister Holness highlighted that Jamaica’s economic advancement is not a result of the sudden discovery of resources or oil wealth; rather, it is founded on sound governance and efficient use of resources by his administration.
“The only thing that has changed that has allowed the government to be able to do things like handing out social houses and building infrastructure is good government—good economic management. That is what has created the dividends that have allowed us to give back to you in tangible ways,” stated the Prime Minister.
Dr. Holness noted that the government has prioritized initiatives that uplift the living standards of citizens while enhancing public infrastructure. A key aspect of this commitment is seen in the ongoing development of the parish of St. Thomas, which was historically underserved.
Major projects, such as the construction of the Morant Bay Urban Centre and new roads, are intended not just to improve traffic flow but to create an ecosystem that supports local tourism, trade, and industry. The Prime Minister added that these advancements will foster long-term economic growth that directly benefits local communities, extending beyond immediate needs.
Importantly, Prime Minister Holness also highlighted the role of the government’s housing initiatives as essential to building a supportive and fair society. Under the New Social Housing Programme and the Indigent Housing Programme, approximately 500 families now have access to homes at no cost.
“This commitment to quality housing provides support for those living in poverty and difficult conditions, ensuring that each citizen has a safe place to call home. We are here today to give back, in a different form this time, a social house under the Indigent Housing Programme,” said the Prime Minister.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister pointed out that the government’s long-term vision goes beyond “palliative politics” of temporary solutions. Instead, he said this administration focuses on systemic changes that uplift citizens’ lives in meaningful ways in a bid to build a more inclusive and prosperous Jamaica.
Prime Minister Holness also noted that the government’s “give back” initiatives, such as subsidies during COVID-19 and the removal of school fees from the HEART/NSTA Trust, are rooted in sustainable economic practices. These actions, he said, have provided relief to Jamaicans in need while emphasizing that true transformation requires a strategy that addresses the root causes of challenges faced by communities.
“The only way to effectively address your long-term suffering is to make strategic investments that generate revenue, which can then be substantially allocated to address the current pain points affecting you. Now, you have a government that can really change your situation for the long term,” affirmed Prime Minister Holness.
Through sound governance and initiatives like the social housing programmes, Jamaica is paving the way toward a resilient and inclusive society where every citizen stands to benefit from national growth.