Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie faces criticism from People’s National Party Councilors, who argue that inadequate support is hindering their ability to effectively serve constituents affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Norman Scott, president of the National Caucus of PNP Councilors, asserts that despite the pressing need for resources such as building materials and care packages, councilors have been left to handle disaster response efforts without sufficient backing from the Ministry of Local Government.
Mr. Scott, the Mayor of Spanish Town, highlights that this lack of support has led to a disjointed and ineffective response, further exacerbating the suffering of communities.
He emphasizes that while emphasis has been placed on supporting members of Parliament, it is the councilors who residents find more accessible and turn to for support during this time.
Regarding the Ministry’s response, Mr. Scott states, “The Ministry and the Minister, having met with the mayors, have yet to provide a detailed plan of action and the necessary resources to effectively address the urgent need across communities.” He further raises concerns about the limited scope of the available resources in addressing the overwhelming needs identified.
Can McKenzie’s Accusation of PNP Trying to Stir Envying be Trusted?
Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie has vehemently defended the government’s handling of Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts against accusations from the National Caucus of People’s National Party Councilors.
In a media release on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, McKenzie rebuffed the claims, stating that the government would not entertain any attempts to sow discord between members of parliament and councilors regarding resources designated for Jamaicans affected by the hurricane.
He refuted the caucus’s assertion that support has been unbalanced in favor of members of parliament, emphasizing that resources are allocated to constituencies, not specifically to parliamentarians or elected representatives. McKenzie stressed the presence of clear accountability systems governing resource access.
Addressing the councilors’ claims of hindered efforts due to lack of communication, funding, and logistical support from the local government ministry, McKenzie pointed out that he recently met with mayors to outline the next steps in the recovery process, insisting that the government is committed to a coordinated national relief effort.
His response appeared to cast doubt on the PNP Caucus’s concerns, highlighting the government’s efforts to minimize duplication of functions and to ensure all state arms work together in the relief endeavor.
Police arrested a rogue Taxi driver operator following a high-speed chase.
The police arrested a taxi driver after allegedly leading them on a high-speed chase in the Corporate Area. The chase began when the driver bypassed a police checkpoint, creating a dangerous situation that forced two female passengers to jump from the moving vehicle.
The taxi reportedly runs from Half-Way Tree to downtown Kingston.
According to The Gleaner, one passenger jumped from the vehicle near Kingston Public Hospital due to the driver’s dangerous driving. Another passenger exited the car near Tarrant Drive after the driver ignored her requests to stop.
The driver is said to have driven on several sidewalks to escape the police.
The police eventually caught the taxi driver in the Molynes Road area after his vehicle crashed. The driver, who suffered minor injuries, was immediately detained.
Police assisted one of the injured passengers in getting medical treatment, highlighting the serious and upsetting effects of the driver’s irresponsible behavior.