Hurricane Melissa exposed policy failures

THE EDITOR, Madam:

One year after Hurricane Melissa ravaged Western Jamaica, recovery remains painfully slow, with much of the local and international assistance yet to reach those most affected. The Government’s response must be judged against longstanding failures in economic management, underinvestment and inadequate public services.

Hurricane Melissa has deepened an already struggling economy. Rising living costs, wages that fail to keep pace, and insufficient investment in local businesses have left people vulnerable while livelihoods and small enterprises have suffered further losses. Recovery must support affected entrepreneurs, rebuild local economies, and create sustainable employment.

Healthcare faces similar challenges. Deteriorating facilities, equipment shortages, long waiting times, and pressure on medical staff have compromised access to care. The storm worsened these deficiencies, while mental health and psychosocial support remain urgent needs. Recovery must include modernised facilities, adequate equipment, expanded mental health services, and improved working conditions to retain skilled professionals.

Education must also be prioritised. The Government reports that, of more than 600 schools affected by Melissa, repairs have been fully completed at 63 severely damaged Priority One schools, while 81 more are between 95% and 99 per cent complete. Additionally, seven schools in the less severely damaged Priority Two and Priority Three categories have been completed. Restoring all affected schools to full capacity must be a priority, particularly given the literacy challenges facing children leaving primary school.

The Government must explain how the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) will fulfil its mandate to manage post-disaster reconstruction when its announced major projects do not appear focused on the areas hardest hit. Rather than create an entirely new entity, the Government should utilise existing expertise within agencies to rebuild affected communities.

It is equally troubling that, while the hurricane’s victims remain without adequate relief, Jamaica is committing to receive third-country nationals from the United States. The Government must explain how it will provide shelter, food, healthcare and other essential services when the urgent needs of displaced Jamaicans remain unmet. The governing memorandum of understanding must be made public to ensure transparency and accountability.

Hurricane Melissa must be a turning point. What’s needed is accountable leadership, equitable relief, sustained investment, and a credible recovery plan addressing both the immediate devastation and the longstanding policy failures that have deepened vulnerability.

Ultimately, the people deserve a government that listens and accounts for its actions. Advocaates Network (AN) reminds the Government that it was elected by less than 20 per cent of eligible voters and is accountable to the entire Jamaican population.

ADVOCATES NETWORK (AN)

advocatesnet@gmail.com