Opposition Leader Mark Golding is blaming government tardiness for the collapse of a staircase at a housing complex in Torrington Park in South St Andrew that left one person injured on Sunday.

The person was injured after a section of the staircase sheared off and fell onto the staircase immediately below.

Residents of the sixteen apartments served by the staircase are left unable to access their homes.

The apartment complex in question is said to be government-owned and warnings about imminent danger were ignored, according to Golding.

“This dangerous incident could and should have been avoided. Since 2018, I have been calling attention to the deteriorating state of this building,” Golding said. “I have repeatedly reached out to key officials, including then Permanent Secretary Audrey Sewell, former Minister of Housing Pearnel Charles in 2021, and even Prime Minister Andrew Holness in both 2022 and 2023.” 

He said no “effective action” was taken to ensure the necessary repairs were done, “in spite of meetings, inspections and assurances that the repairs have been approved, only for the work to be deferred, with nothing done to address this avoidable risk”.

Golding said: “The lack of response is not just a matter of bureaucracy—it reflects a shameful disregard for the lives of the residents of Torrington Park.

“To the residents of these buildings in Torrington Park—I share in your frustration, pain and anger. You have endured years of neglect, living in unsafe conditions, with repeated promises but no meaningful action. This is not just a structural failure; it is a failure of governance.”

Golding has called on the government to urgently intervene, not only to provide immediate support to the injured resident and stranded families but to implement a comprehensive plan to repair and rehabilitate these government-owned residential high-rise buildings in Torrington Park, and similar buildings across the country.

“These residents cannot wait any longer for safe housing. I will continue to advocate relentlessly on behalf of my constituents, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their safety is prioritised. This government owes Torrington Park more than apologies; it owes them action,” Golding said.