Holness Calls On Private Insurers To Speed Up Hurricane Melissa Claim Payments

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness is urging private insurance firms to move more quickly on outstanding payments to policyholders, even as the National Housing Trust pays out billions of dollars in claims.

Dr. Holness said the NHT has performed well in handling its insurance obligations, and he used that example to press private insurers to respond with greater urgency to customers who have already filed claims.

He said several people have written to him complaining that insurers visited their properties and completed assessments, but they have not received payment and remain locked in discussions over settlement.

The Prime Minister said he believes those companies should make the payouts without delay.

Businesses in parishes that suffered the worst damage from Hurricane Melissa have become increasingly frustrated over unresolved claims, seven months after the Category 5 system struck.

Business leaders have argued that insurance settlements are essential to the rebuilding effort and wider recovery. They have also warned that drawn-out delays will continue to hurt the economy.

Dr. Holness made the comments recently while speaking at the NHT Malvern Housing Development Handing Over Ceremony.