Opposition accuses McKenzie of sidelining councillors in Hurricane Beryl response

The Opposition People's National Party is accusing Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie of failing to provide adequate support to councillors, hindering their ability to effectively serve their communities in the wake of Hurricane Beryl.

A media release from President of the National Caucus of PNP Councillors, Norman Scott, says while McKenzie has met with mayors, he is yet to provide a detailed plan of action and the necessary resources to effectively address the urgent needs across the communities.

It further notes that while mayors and municipalities were advised to use money from the Special Grants and Repairs (SGR) fund, these resources are limited and cannot address the overwhelming needs identified.

"Despite the dire need for resources, including building materials and care packages, councillors, who are among the first responders, have been left to navigate disaster response efforts without sufficient backing from the Ministry of Local Government. This lack of support has resulted in a disjointed and ineffective response, exacerbating the suffering of our communities," the Opposition says.

The Opposition says emphasis has been placed on giving support to members of parliament,  but it is the councillors who residents find more easily accessible and to whom they readily look for support at this time. 

"Councillors are on the ground, working tirelessly to assist the numerous residents severely impacted, yet they are not receiving the necessary support from the minister's office. It is unacceptable that the ministry has not provided the resources and logistical support needed to ensure a coordinated and effective response.

"The absence of clear communication, funding, and logistical support from the Ministry of Local Government has severely hampered our ability to coordinate relief efforts and resource distribution and provide critical information and updates to constituents. This lack of support has led to insufficient resource allocation, an inefficient response to immediate needs, and increased frustration and despair among affected communities," the Opposition argues.

The Opposition councillors are demanding that McKenzie takes immediate action to address the situation and "prioritise the needs of councillors and, by extension, the communities they serve."

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