Dear Claudienne,

I am writing in regards to the massive number of illegal fires that are being set in the Havendale community to burn garbage. Everyday, morning or evening, and even when it is raining, the illegal burning of bush and other garbage can be seen to be taking place in this community.

As a result, from as early as 6 am to as late as 9 pm, residents are unable to get fresh air as the air most times reeks of smoke. This illegal burning has been taking place for the last three years despite the fact that the NSWMA comes into the community to collect garbage every week.

In one case, a woman was burning two huge tree trunks. An elderly couple who are her neighbours asked the woman’s gardener to extinguish the fire as the severe smoke was affecting them. Each time they spoke to the gardener he told them that, “Me will soon do it.”

The fire brigade was eventually called, and when the firemen went to speak to the occupants of the premises where the tree trunks were being burnt they acted as though they didn’t know what the firemen were talking about.

On another occasion the fire brigade was called because the stuff being burnt was taking place on the side of a gully that has a lot of bush.

And there are several other incidents that I could outline as in the Havendale community there are always residents who are burning big heaps of cut grass, hedging, and other materials.

It is a very sad and frustrating state of affairs, and because these persons are not penalised they continue to do this illegal act over and over again.

I am seeking your help as I am at my wits’ end in this matter.

MC

Dear MC,

Tell Claudienne has been in communication with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) , the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, and other government agencies about your concerns.

On April 15, 2025 an email from NEPA to the column stated the following:

“We would like to confirm that thirty (30) warning letters have been served to residents of Greenwood Drive, Oldgate Drive, Riverside Drive, and Green Acres. These letters were issued as part of our enforcement efforts to address the illegal burning of waste in the Havendale area and to remind residents of the environmental and legal implications of such activities.

In addition to these enforcement actions, the NEPA is in the process of planning a community outreach campaign to engage residents in a more personal and constructive manner. This initiative will involve face-to-face interactions aimed at raising awareness and promoting proper waste disposal practices. We will be joined by key stakeholders and partner agencies. The date for this campaign will be confirmed and communicated shortly.

‘The National Environment and Planning Agency remains committed to working collaboratively with all partners and residents to promote healthier, cleaner communities. We are actively addressing this issue and will continue to take meaningful action.”

Tell Claudienne notes that on July 10,2025 NEPA collaborated with the Havendale Citizens Association for an event at which the citizens were given information on the NEPA fire sensitisation programme for the Havendale community.

Advertisements by NEPA and the Jamaica Environmental Trust also call attention to the fact that persons found guilty of setting illegal fires can be fined up to $500,000.

We wish you all the best.

Have a problem with a store, utility, a company? Telephone 876- 936-9436 or cell/ WhatsApp # 876-484-1349 or write to: Tell Claudienne c/o Sunday Finance, Jamaica Observer, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Avenue, Kingston 5; or e-mail: edwardsc@jamaicaobserver.com. Please include a contact phone number.