Stair

THE NATIONAL Land Agency (NLA) is now in the process of acquiring eight parcels of land in the vicinity of Gordon House, on Duke Street, for the construction of a new Parliament building.

At a meeting of the House and Senate Committee on Wednesday, chief executive officer of the NLA, Elizabeth Stair, said her agency had served notices on the owners of the premises in the area.

Lands adjoining Gordon House on Charles, Beeston, Mark and East streets are to be acquired by the NLA. The NLA CEO told committee members that the land valuation had already been completed.

She said letters of offer would be issued this week to three land-owners, including the principals of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Association.

Notify ministry

Stair informed the committee that tenants have been notified of the government's plans to purchase the lands.

Committee member Navel Clarke warned that there might be a backlash against Parliament if tenants were displaced without proper plans to relocate them.

In response, Stair said the Ministry of Housing had been asked to assist in the relocation of the tenants.

However, it was later revealed that the ministry had not been informed about the proposed relocation plans.

The Houses of Parliament building, along Duke Street, downtown Kingston. - File