ENVIRONMENT LAUNCHES 1500 REHAB JOBS
Over 1000 jobs will be created from the Ministry of Environment’s Jobs For Rehabilitation programme which was launched yesterday.
Minister for Environment, Mahendra Reddy, said a budget of $150,000 was set aside for the first phase of what was expected to develop into a multi-faceted scheme.
He also called on donors and partners to team up with the ministry to develop the next few phases of the programme.
Permanent secretary for Environment, Joshua Wycliffe, said the programme had twin benefits.
“It restores nature and rebuilds economies,” he said.
The Jobs for Rehabilitation programme is modelled to enable communities to generate employment, Mr Wycliffe said.
“The ministry is doing this for you,” he said.
“There is no fanfare; there is no self interest.
“We carry hope.”
Mr Reddy said the programme was expected to revitalise, restore and rebuild the economy in the fight against COVID-19.
How it works
Effective immediately, groups of a minimum of 10 individuals can register with the ministry by filling out prescribed forms.
In their application, the groups must outline the work they intend to carry out.
Successful groups will receive an initial deposit of $250 of their allocated $1000.
Interested groups must demonstrate their ability to restore nature in demarcated coastal areas, wetlands, water ponds, biodiversity parks, and seagrass nursery.
“They will be paid to clear, replant, or build a path,” Mr Reddy said. “There are lots of projects.
“We want communities to take ownership of their projects for their future.”
The ministry has partnered with A Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) for phase one of th programme.