PNP slams gov’t over delay in upgrading hurricane shelters

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Jamaica Observer

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Spokesperson on Local Government, Natalie Neita Garvey, has criticised the Government and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) over what she described as inaction on upgrading emergency shelters ahead of the hurricane season.In a release, Neita Garvey said a recent audit of shelters identified the need for improvements such as ramps, showers and water tanks, but no significant steps have been taken to implement the recommendations.She argued that responsibility for these upgrades rests with the Government, accusing authorities of shifting the burden to churches and community centres that are often used as shelters.The Opposition spokesperson also pointed to past storms, including Hurricane Beryl and Hurricane Melissa, as evidence of the need to ensure shelters meet basic standards before disasters strike.With the Atlantic hurricane season approaching, she called for urgent action, warning that failure to prepare could worsen conditions for affected residents.Neita Garvey added that she intends to continue raising the issue and urged the prime minister, who has responsibility for disaster management, to direct ODPEM to begin improvement work without delay.