The Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC) is intensifying efforts to ensure access to adequate, affordable, and safe housing solutions for all Jamaicans, recognising that housing is a critical pillar of national development.
Speaking on the Ministry’s latest episode of MEGJC 360, Senior Director of the Housing Policy, Research, and Monitoring Branch, Paula Parkes, says the “strategic objective is to develop and refine suitable policy and legislative instruments to achieve Vision 2030’s goal of safe, sanitary, and affordable shelter for all citizens”.
Among the Ministry and its Agencies’ significant achievements is the promulgation of Jamaica’s first National Housing Policy and Implementation Plan, finalised post-independence. This landmark policy addresses critical housing issues such as affordability, emergency housing, and housing finance. It also outlines actionable recommendations to expand access to safe, legal, and affordable housing solutions.
“This policy is a milestone for Jamaica. It provides a roadmap to tackle the various housing challenges faced by different segments of society, ensuring that everyone- from vulnerable populations to middle-income families-has access to shelter”, Ms. Parkes explained.
Ms. Parkes added that the Ministry is also advancing innovative initiatives like the Housing Public-Private Partnership Policy, designed to facilitate partnerships between the government and developers to deliver affordable housing solutions. One notable success is the development of Catherine Estates, which provides Jamaicans with cost-effective housing options while ensuring quality.
In addition to policy advancements, the Housing Policy, Research, and Monitoring Branch conducts socioeconomic surveys in informal and disaster-affected communities. These surveys inform government interventions such as relocation, regularisation, and infrastructure development, directly improving the quality of life of residents.
The Ministry is also strengthening its monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress of housing policies and ensure alignment with the National Development Plan. Legislative advancements, such as the draft bill for Quantity Surveyors, are also being prioritised to promote accountability and professionalism in housing development.