Construction sector in Jamaica must embrace new technology – PM Holness

The prime minister of Jamaica says the time has come for the construction sector to embrace new technology that will radically change the face of the country.

Andrew Holness who was giving the keynote address at the inaugural Build Expo and Conference 2017 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, St. James.

He stressed that cutting-edge technology is available for the sector and should be utilised in the best interest of Jamaicans.

He said that while there is nothing wrong with holding on to the block and steel sentiments, developers should not deny their customers the benefits of modern technology, noting that the country will be better off in the long run.

“Just remember that there are other building technologies that are there and which are just as strong.

“They are also more energy efficient and easier to build and manipulate. They also last longer and are far more affordable.”

He welcomed the staging of the conference, noting that it has “provided a great opportunity to introduce to the wider Jamaican population new technology for construction, which is a far cry from anything we have been seeing.”

Hemp qualities

The Prime Minister said he has been introduced to cutting-edge technology for 3D-printed buildings and new materials “which is nothing short of amazing.”

“I would be very interested in seeing the building materials that can come from hemp and also from cannabis. The introduction I heard earlier on the qualities of hemp has certainly stimulated my interest in the product,” he said.

“We have been talking about developing a hemp industry for many years but which has yet to get off the ground.

“We need a demonstration to literally to see how these products can be made from hemp and how they can be infused into our regular construction.”

Mr. Holness said that construction is one of the most important sectors in Jamaica and could absorb, very quickly, the unemployed labour force.