As the Government continues to be criticised for demolition of the homes of informal settlers in Bernard Lodge, St Catherine, Robert Morgan, minister without portfolio with responsibility for information in the Office of the Prime Minister, has argued that seven months notice was given before exercise.

Morgan took to Twitter today (October 10) where he shared a document issued by SCJ Holdings in March of this year, warning builders to cease and desist operations immediately.

The document further detailed that SCJ is the registered owner of the property that is dedicated for agricultural use “and should not be used for houses”.

It also gave notice for builders to remove any and all temporary structures on the property, warning that all properties still standing after the notice would be demolished.

Morgan also posted a photo of an SCJ worker posting the notice on an unfinished property that he says was taken in March of this year.

While speaking in Parliament on October 5, Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced that the structures would be demolished.

Approximately 30 illegal structures were identified and only unoccupied structures demolished.

The demolition took place the following day, receiving mixed responses from citizens and a demand for justice from those impacted.

The opposition has also chastised the Government, while noting that it would assist victims in taking legal action against the State.

READ: Bernard Lodge squatters will get chance to buy Development Area homes, Holness promises