Strong Disaster Management Template in Place – Works Minister

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, with responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Morgan, says the Government has a strong disaster management template in place as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica.

“The Government really did significant work before, during and after Hurricane Beryl [last year] to ensure that the country was able to recover stronger,” he said, in his address at today’s (October 22) Special Press Briefing on the Preparation for Tropical Storm Melissa, at Jamaica House.

Mr. Morgan said the National Works Agency (NWA) and the Government have executed some significant projects over the last few years, which are assisting in the management of disasters.

“For example, in the St. Thomas area, the South Coast Highway Improvement Project has resulted in significant assistance to the population there as it relates to drainage. Where there were no drains before, there is significant infrastructure that has been put in to assist with drainage. Also, on the other side of the island, which is in St. James, the perimeter road is also a significant work that has been done with drainage,” he detailed.

The Minister said roads completed under the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement (SPARK) programme were designed with improved drainage to ensure that less damage is done to communities.

Meanwhile, Mr. Morgan advised that several contractors across the island have been engaged to stockpile critical materials that will be essential in the aftermath of the storm.

“This includes river shingle, which is important to provide access to critical corridors which may be damaged or destroyed in case of a rain event,” he explained.

The Minister encouraged Jamaicans to demonstrate a heightened level of responsibility.

“Listen to the bulletins, be as prepared as possible and seek assistance where necessary and do not wait until the last minute,” he emphasised.