Politics behind slow Westmoreland hurricane recovery, claims PNP general secretary

People’s National Party (PNP) General Secretary and Westmoreland Eastern Member of Parliament Dr Dayton Campbell has accused the Government of withholding hurricane relief for the parish on political grounds, citing the outcome of last year’s general election.

The PNP reclaimed all three constituencies in Westmoreland, with Campbell, Dwayne Vaz and Ian Hayles defeating their Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) opponents.

Addressing the PNP’s 88th annual conference public session at Independence Park in Savanna-la-Mar on Sunday, Campbell argued that the recovery effort has been slow and asserted that this is evidence of a political motive.

“The Government has no intention of helping the people of Westmoreland, and I believe them vex and carry feelings because last September they got beaten…”

Campbell asserted that residents should not be punished for how they voted, while accusing the Government of failing to provide adequate housing and other assistance to hurricane victims.

“We have put up over 40 homes in Eastern Westmoreland, and the Government has done the one home for the people,” he said.

He also criticised the administration’s handling of temporary housing and damaged schools.

He said the PNP stands with residents of the parish and will continue to push for change.

“The reason for the People's National Party is the people of Jamaica. We are here because the people need a voice that will speak on their behalf.”

- Albert Ferguson

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