Westmoreland mayor rejects minister’s claims on shelter accommodation works

However, the promised accommodations were not ready on that date last Friday READ: McKenzie rips into PNP’s Dwaye Vaz, names people still sheltering at Petersfield High School as his ‘avid supporters’According to Delancy, the corporation was not a party to the execution of works carried out on the temporary accommodation facilities at the principals’ and teachers’ cottages.“The minister and the ministry are fully aware of the mitigating circumstances, outside the control of the political directorate at the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation, which have resulted in the contractor not yet being paid,” Delancy said.He said the office of the mayor and the Chief Executive Officer have been in ongoing discussions with the minister, the permanent secretary, and members of the ministry’s technical team regarding concerns surrounding the matter.Delancy also noted that the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation signed the contract in good faith and in the interest of the shelterees, despite concerns about aspects of the agreement and the fact that the corporation was brought into the process after work had already commenced at the site.“The political directorate of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation has done what is required to facilitate the contract and support efforts to ensure the shelterees are properly accommodated,” he added.The mayor maintained that the corporation remains committed to constructive engagement and ensuring that the needs of affected residents are addressed responsibly and transparently.