Labour Minister says payment under ROOFS programme will be made in phased batches

In this file photo Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, speaking during a post-Cabinet press briefing.

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March 26, 2026

Labour Minister says payment under ROOFS programme will be made in phased batches

KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles J is reiterating that payments under the Restoration of Owner or Occupant Family Shelters (ROOFS) initiative will be executed in phased batches, contingent on the completion of verification protocols.

Charles Jr, in responding to concerns raised by members of parliament, said these measures include TRN validation, beneficiary confirmation, and other safeguards intended to prevent duplication and ensure that only eligible individuals receive assistance.

“MP Miller- Bennett was present at the ceremony for Hanover on February 25, at that time, we disbursed some $330 million and made it very clear that this was only to the portion of persons approved at the time and not a complete payment to all beneficiaries. We took the time to explain in detail the verification process, which included the national spatial data branch reviewing all data to identify duplications and ensure the list is accurate,” Charles Jr said in a media release.

“This is a national recovery programme operating at significant scale, and with that comes the responsibility to ensure that every dollar is properly accounted for,” he said. “The phased approach to payments is not a delay—it is a necessary process to guarantee transparency, protect public funds, and ensure fairness to all beneficiaries.”

He further noted that while there may be perceptions of inconsistency in payment timing, these are directly linked to the verification cycle, which varies based on the completeness and accuracy of submitted information.

Charles Jr added that all members of parliament were furnished with a comprehensive listing of approved beneficiaries, including their respective damage classifications, to ensure transparency and a clear understanding of the disbursement framework.

“We ask that the MP and others advise constituents of this process so people are not unjustifiably frustrated. Let’s work together to get this right. No verified beneficiary is being excluded,” the minister added. “Once individuals are confirmed within the system, they will receive their payments. The batching process ensures order, accountability, and confidence in the programme.”

The minister reaffirmed that the Government remains fully committed to delivering support to all qualified beneficiaries and urged continued cooperation as the programme advances.