The Barbados government has so far paid out more than 1.5 million dollars in business interruption benefits to boat owners and fishermen affected by Hurricane Beryl and says it’s working to ensure payments are made to everyone who qualifies.

Minister of the Environment, National Beautification and the Blue and Green Economy Adrian Forde was responding to statements made by opposition leader Ralph Thorne who accused government of failing to make the promised payments to everyone affected.

Mr. Forde says while significant payments have been made it was discovered that some people who applied were listed as employees and would therefore be eligible for unemployment benefits while others either submitted incorrect information or were not registered in government’s system as required.

But he says all efforts are being made to resolve any difficulties that are delaying disbursement.

Minister of the Environment, National Beautification and the Blue and Green Economy Adrian Forde