Jamaica hit hard by cement shortage

Both projects, down to host crucial events during the March 11 to April 28 showpiece, have been seriously affected by the shortage of cement in the country and are behind schedule.

In a press release yesterday, Jamaica Cricket 2007 Limited said they were holding discussions with the Caribbean Cement Company Limited “to consider the national importance of our major undertakings at Sabina Park and in Trelawny, thereby ensuring priority deliveries.”

It noted that the CCC had been co-operative and had requested details of the pouring/supply schedules for the projects, which had been subsequently provided.

The LOC said it was also considering holding discussions with the project contractors in order to revise the construction scheduled while still aiming to meet the completion deadlines of November 30 for the Trelawny Stadium and October 31 for Sabina Park.

Also among the initiatives being explored is an increase in material, labour and equipment resources as well as discussing with concrete suppliers Jamaica Pre-Mix Limited, the need to treat with priority the delivery of concrete to both sites. The LOC also wants Jamaica Pre-Mix Limited to establish a mobile batching facility on site at Sabina Park. Other initiatives include the importation of cement by contractors, increased security presence at project sites as necessary, fast-tracking of evaluation process, and payment of Interim Certificates and the acceleration of external work activities, particularly in Trelawny.

Sabina Park is scheduled to host Group “D”, first round matches involving hosts West Indies, along with the first semi-final while the stadium at Trelawny will play host to warm-up matches and the opening ceremony. (CMC)