Preliminary estimates conducted by the Ministry of Education and Youth have revealed that Hurricane Dean caused approximately $700 million worth of damage to some 250 schools across the island.

This is according to Senator Noel Monteith, State Minister in the Ministry of Education and Youth.

Senator Monteith said work would begin on these schools "early". He noted that the damage to schools was moderate to severe, and money would be given to institutions with minor damage to effect the necessary repairs, under the supervision of the ministry's building officers.

Will not reopen in time

Meanwhile, immediate past president of the Jamaica Teachers' Association, Hopeton Henry, on Monday expressed concern that some of the damaged schools would not be able to reopen for the start of the new school year.

However, Senator Monteith said this would not be the case.

"I don't have that fear. Some schools were extensively damaged, (and) they may be able to take in students on a phased basis," he said.