Holness pleased with Jamaica’s disaster preparedness and response systems

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed confidence in Jamaica’s disaster preparedness and response systems in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.

Despite awaiting a comprehensive post-hurricane analysis, Holness indicated that initial assessments suggest the nation’s readiness measures have proven effective.

“My sense is that generally our systems worked, and I can make that statement even without the objective analysis being done as yet,” remarked Holness during a tour of southern parishes on Thursday. His visit aimed to assess firsthand the hurricane’s impact on communities and critical services, while evaluating the ongoing response efforts.

Holness emphasised Jamaica’s strides in critical areas such as legislation, leadership direction, resource allocation, and fiscal structuring, which collectively bolster a resilient framework operational even during non-disaster periods.

Meanwhile, the National Works Agency (NWA) reported that an estimate for the cost of Hurricane Beryl’s damage is pending. Varden Downer, senior director for project implementation at the NWA, said nearly 200 roads were cleared, as of Friday, to facilitate traffic flow. He said work was ongoing to clear others.

“Once road clearing operations are completed, our next objective will be to conduct comprehensive cost assessments for restoration and rehabilitation,” Downer stated.

In the meantime, the Ministry of Health & Wellness cautioned the public about hazards associated with debris left by Hurricane Beryl. Persons have been urged to wear protective clothing and to avoid floodwaters. At the same time, the health ministry said persons should adhere to safety guidelines when using power tools like chainsaws, and exercise caution around sharp objects and downed power lines.