PORT ANTONIO, Portland — Councillor Wayne McKenzie (People’s National Party, Prospect Division), who has given the National Works Agency (NWA) a failing grade for its performance in Port Antonio, has expressed concern that the State agency’s failure to repair a number of manholes is posing a threat to road users.

“There are many places across the parish where they treat in a nonchalant way. The concern that I do have at this time is where it affects or threatens to affect the safety of pedestrians and also motorists,” he chided

McKenzie’s comments came during Thursday’s regular monthly meeting of the Portland Municipal Corporation. He said there are a number of spots in Port Antonio where there are caved-in manholes on roads which are the NWA’s responsibility. Some of the gaping chasms have been stuffed with boulders or drums, at others there is nothing to prevent pedestrians or wheels of vehicles from falling in. The councillor said the problem has persisted for a while.

“The area that touched me most — because of how long it has been and how many people have brought it to my attention because of its location — it’s an area by what we call the Caneside River Bridge, just by Carder Park on the north side, beside the Craft Village. They put tape, they put drum, they put all sorts of things, and persons have fallen in it before. I don’t think we should wait until we hear of the loss of life before we see the NWA rushing to have a different remedy,” McKenzie urged.

“Entrance to our own road and works compound, especially coming from Boundbrook and coming up… at 32 West Street, we have a serious situation there. If you misjudge the wheel you will be in that,” he added.

The councillor also made reference to the area in front of the gas station at the entrance of East Baptist Avenue on West Street; the area across from Hamilton Bookstore, on West Street; and the area across from Mizpah Funeral Home.

“I mention these because these are readily in the mind, but I’m certain if we look across the parish we will see several more. These are matters that need to be attended to urgently,” McKenzie said.

He said the NWA has underperformed for years, despite having access to the funding needed to make an impact.

“They cannot take care of what they are charged with. As a municipal corporation we have tried our utmost best. When the complaints come from the public we act on it with extreme haste, even with the limited resources we have,” said McKenzie.

“They are awash with cash yet they treat matters the way they do. I cannot continue to have Port Antonio like this, exposing the pedestrians and motorists to major damage or possible loss of life. It is time for something to happen to resolve this long-standing issue,” he added.

Mayor Paul Thompson, who was elected councillor for the Manchioneal Division on a Jamaica Labour Party ticket, joined McKenzie in his call.

“I am in total agreement with you Councillor McKenzie and we will meet with them,” he assured.

(Photos: Everard Owen)