The government is fast-tracking housing construction in the Grenadines to ensure that displaced residents can return to their communities quickly.
In a recent statement, Minister of Housing Hon. Andrew John addressed the nation’s rebuilding efforts and outlined key housing policies. John clarified that while the government is actively fast-tracking homes, they are addressing an issue where some individuals who were not affected by the disaster remain on housing lists.
He sent a clear message that the government is highly supportive of young people acquiring and building homes. “What we want to do… as a nation is to encourage our young people to come forward and seek assistance,” John said, adding that the government will provide help wherever possible.
However, John emphasized that the administration will not repeat the practices of the previous administration, which he criticized for giving homes to unaffected individuals and permanent public servants who are employed.
Refuting claims that the applicants in question are low-paid workers, John stated that these public servants are fully capable of securing loans to pay for their own homes, whether they choose prefabricated or brick-and-mortar structures.
The Minister also countered assertions that building homes for civil servants is a new initiative, pointing out that the Housing and Land Development Corporation (HLDC) has been doing this for a long time. He highlighted several long-standing developments, including housing projects in Green Hill, several low-income housing projects over the years, and projects in Diamond, which is John’s home community.
John is encouraging young civil servants and business owners to comfortably come forward to participate in the rebuilding process, urging citizens to “start building our country once again” and “build ourselves and build our country”
