The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines today, signed an agreement for the acquisition of 300 prefabricated houses from Trinidad and Tobago. The units are manufactured by Steel Framed Engineered Solutions Ltd. and will be used to provide housing for families affected by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
The ceremony was held at Cabinet Room. Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of Housing, Hon. Orando Brewster, Representative of Steel Framed Engineered Solutions Ltd. Jesse Scott and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing, Neva Cordice as well as other senior government officials were on hand to witness the signing.
Minister Brewster said the Government will procure 200 two-bedroom, and 100 three-bedroom, houses, which will be distributed in the coming weeks to displaced residents across the country. Minister Brewster noted that these prefabricated homes will provide immediate, safe, and resilient shelter to those most in need.
Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves reaffirmed the government’s dedication in supporting families affected by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
“This initiative highlights our unwavering commitment to restoring the lives and livelihoods of our citizens. These prefabricated homes will bring hope, security, and stability to those who need it most, ” Dr. Gonsalves said.
The Prime Minister noted that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the only government in the hemisphere to undertake such a large-scale housing reconstruction programme in the aftermath of a natural disaster.
Dr. Gonsalves further reported that over 3,500 homes have already been repaired or are currently undergoing reconstruction, with almost all roofing works completed nationwide. However, an estimated 1,000 homes on Union Island remain to be completed.
The Prime Minister extended thanks to Mr. Ian Wace of Canouan and the Gumbolimbo group , the Romanian contingent, and the Guyanese military contingent for their continued dedication and support in the recovery of the Southern Grenadines.
Prime Minister Gonsalves also noted that there is a current shortage of skilled tradesmen, and that these prefabricated homes were selected in part because they require less labour and can be assembled quickly. While the structures themselves are imported from Trinidad, all roofing and building materials will be sourced locally, ensuring continued economic activity and support for Vincentian suppliers.
As the country continues to rebuild, the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains committed to constructing stronger, safer, and more resilient communities for all citizens affected by Hurricane Beryl.
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