Motorists were up for a long and bumpy ride along Marcus Garvey Drive yesterday morning, as traffic piled up along the roadway. - Norman Grindley /Deputy Chief Photographer

Minister of Transport and Works Mike Henry says it will cost the Government between $3 billion and $3.5 billion to carry out repairs to the nation's roads, which have deteriorated severely following the heavy showers associated with Hurricane Noel.

Mr. Henry told journalists at a post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House yesterday that about 51 per cent of the road infrastructure was currently in need of reconstruction.

He said his ministry has already requested $2 billion from Government to begin the repairs.

No work during rains

The rehabilitation of roads had started in some areas, but according to Mr. Henry it was useless to carry out work during the rains.

"If I started patching and by next week that patch is washed out again, I am really duplicating money, so I am asking you to take to the country, it's no point demonstrating at this stage, I am aware of the realities out there," he said.

Mr. Henry also said he had proposed that road repairs fall under one authority, which would nullify the current situation whereby parish councils have responsibility for specific roads, while the National Works Agency concentrates on major roadways.

A press conference will be held next week to provide details about the Government's road rehabilitation plan.