Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie today (Jan 4) handed over 2 furnished houses, to two residents of St. Ann.

The concrete houses, one in Williamsfield and the other in Beecher Town, were constructed as part of the ministry’s indigent housing project.

Each of the studio units was built and furnished at a cost of a little over $2 m.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony in Williamsfield in the Limehall division this morning, Mr. McKenzie said gone are the days when government would place people in boarded houses.

He said the government has set a standard which will see future indigent units being furnished.

He said that local government was the heartbeat of the country’s survival, and that the care and protection of those in need will continue to be a main focus in the quest for better local governance.

Meantime, North East St. Ann Member of Parliament Shahine Robinson said the project was a team effort by the ministry of Local Government, through the St. Ann Municipal Corporation and the office of the MP.

She said the construction of the houses clearly shows that the government cares about the poor and needy.