Government Serious About Transformation
Prime Minister Andrew Holness this morning (July 23), commissioned into service 20 brand new garbage trucks acquired by the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA). This brings the NSWMA’s total fleet to 150.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Holness underscored that the Government is 100 percent focused on transforming the NSWMA.
The Prime Minister stated, “It is important to bring across to the public that the Government is serious about increasing the fleet and therefore increasing the service. But it is also important to note that in the last four years this Government has added 63 trucks to the NSWMA’s fleet of trucks.”
In that regard, the Prime Minister further stated that the trucks will be distributed across the island to ensure there is better access to waste management services. At the same time, he asserted that Jamaicans must adopt a culture of cleanliness.
Prime Minister Holness also highlighted that his Administration is focused on the transformation of all sectors.
“We are focused on the transformation of the minds of our people. We are focused on the health of our people, and you can tell by how we have dedicated resources, time, energy on managing the pandemic, and keeping this country safe. We are focused on our environment, and you can tell by the positive steps we have taken as it relates to the protection of our natural assets. There is a lot of talk about the Cockpit Country, but again, we are the only Government that has acted. We are the only Government that has taken the progressive and decisive step in banning plastics,” said Prime Minister Holness.
Moreover, Prime Minister Holness noted that while transforming the country, it is important for the Government to communicate with the people.
“We have to keep engaging with the people so that they can understand what we are doing because the transformation is bit by bit, element by element, and oftentimes, it is imperceptible,” said Prime Minister Holness.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister congratulated the NSMWA, the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, the chairman, board of directors, executive directors, and staff for the work they have been doing and encouraged them to continue doing well.
The trucks, which were purchased through Tank-Weld Metal Limited were acquired at a total cost of $357,548,209.45.