Holness urges Labour Day push for hurricane readiness across Jamaica

Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness is calling on Jamaicans to make Labour Day work part of their preparation for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

He said citizens should check conditions around their houses and neighbourhoods now, instead of delaying action until a storm is approaching.

Dr. Holness made the appeal on Monday (May 25) while addressing the opening ceremony for the Labour Day National Project at Lewis Town Early Childhood Institution in Brompton, St. Elizabeth.

"In a few more days, I'll be standing in another ceremony marking the beginning of the hurricane season, and at that time I will give you my usual message, which is to get ready, be prepared," the Prime Minister said.

He urged people to look closely at possible dangers near their homes and in their communities. "Examine your property, the curtilage of your property. Look around your community. See the things that are threats to your safety and the integrity of your house. Prune your trees, clear culverts and drains," he advised.

The Prime Minister also said residents should use the current good weather to check generators, stored emergency food and roofing. "Now is a good time to... make sure that everything is working," he emphasised.

Dr. Holness warned that tree trimming should not be left until conditions become unsafe. "You see that limb that was hanging before and threatening? Now is a good time to prune it. Don't do it when the hurricane is coming," he said.

With Labour Day 2026 being observed under the theme 'One People, One Purpose, In All Things, Jamaica Wins,' he encouraged Jamaicans to treat the holiday as a time for practical community service.

"It's a public holiday but it's... a day where we work for the community," the Prime Minister said.

At Lewis Town ECI, the Labour Day programme featured roof repairs, painting and other restoration work done by volunteers, residents and representatives of several Government agencies.