Cement prices in Jamaica reach alarming levels
Published:Monday | January 14, 2008 | 1:23 PM
President of the Incorporated Masterbuilders Association of Jamaica, Michael Archer, said the increased price of cement has pushed the price of building materials to alarming levels.
According to Mr. Archer, the price of a typical 800 square foot house being sold by the National Housing Trust (NHT) for $3.8 million has now escalated to $6 million.
He said that the industry also needs more labourers to work on many construction projects slated to begin this year.
Mr. Archer is calling for the Ministry of Labour and HEART Trust NTA to make provisions for more construction workers to be certified to meet the industry’s demand.
Mr. Archer said that the levels of crime have decreased in the construction industry.
He also said the police have helped significantly to reduce the incidence of extortion.