JAMAICA | Phillip Paulwell Expresses Disappointment Over Continued Neglect of Harbour Drive Repairs

KINGSTON, Jamaica. July 6, 2024: Member of Parliament for East Kingston and Port Royal, Phillip Paulwell, has expressed deep disappointment over the continued neglect of critical drainage repairs on Harbour Drive in Harbour View. 

 A statement from the Member of Parliament said despite his vigilant advocacy over the past four years, the area remains susceptible to significant flooding, a situation that has become even more critical as we face an extremely active hurricane season.

"The passage of Hurricane Beryl, though not as catastrophic as anticipated, has highlighted the urgency of addressing the drainage concerns in Harbour Drive. Mr. Paulwell warns that the community cannot afford to wait for a major disaster before action is taken," Paulwell said.

"As we face this active hurricane season, the lives and properties of residents of Harbour Drive and Harbour Heights remain in severe jeopardy," said Mr. Paulwell. "The recent rains have already caused considerable damage, and any further delay in addressing the drainage issues could lead to a disaster," he noted.

Despite repeated representations at the highest levels, including to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Paulwell has received nothing but promises over the past four years. The National Works Agency has estimated that the repairs will cost about $80 million, yet no concrete steps have been taken.

During the recent State of the Constituency Debate, Mr. Paulwell issued a stern warning to the government. He stated that he would not participate in another debate if no action is taken to address the drainage concerns of Harbour Drive.

"I will skip the debates next year if the government does not move to prevent more flooding and damage in the area," he declared. "This is not just about promises; it is about taking urgent action to protect the lives and properties of the residents."

In addition to the ongoing advocacy, the MP highlighted that the residents of Harbour Heights are also at further risk. The area, which was part of a 2012 landslide mitigation project funded by a US$2.37 million grant from the Japanese Social Development Fund, has seen work fall short of its intended scope, leaving homes exposed and vulnerable.

"The community's situation is dire," Mr. Paulwell emphasised. "If we have any more heavy rains, it is going to be a disaster area. Immediate help is necessary to prevent a calamity."

Mr. Paulwell has urged the government to honour its commitments and expedite the necessary works under the South Coast Highway Improvement Project, which includes the Harbour Drive area. The project, managed by the China Harbour Engineering Company, is expected to provide a long-term solution to the drainage problems.

"The time for action is now," Mr. Paulwell concluded. "The residents of Harbour Drive and Harbour Heights deserve to live without the constant fear of flooding and property damage. It is imperative that the government moves swiftly to address this critical issue."

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