Gareth Davis, Gleaner Writer
( L - R ) Wright, Rhodd
Manchioneal, Portland:
A food shortage is now facing residents, of Manchioneal and neighbouring communities in east Portland, who have returned home after spending several days at emergency shelters.
The residents are now trying to pick up the pieces following Hurricane Dean, which ravaged their homes.
Although determined to rebuild on what is left of their houses, a crisis has developed as a scarcity of food is now taking its toll on the various communities.
Food shortage severe
Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) candidate for Eastern Portland, Dennis Wright, who toured some of the badly damaged communities yesterday, said the food shortage was severe.
He said priority should be given to the communities of Manchioneal, Rural Hill, Reach, Long Road, Sea Shore and Barracks, for immediate food distribution.
According to Mr. Wright, various disaster groups and welfare agencies should give attention to those communities because children and the elderly should not be denied basic food items.
However, acting secretary manager of the Portland Parish Council, Fay Neufville, said once residents are in emergency shelters, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is responsible for providing food and water to all those sheltered.
Other relief agencies
"The ministry works in collaboration with other relief agencies, including the Red Cross, Salvation Army and the Adventist Relief Agency (ADRA), to provide food, bedding and water to all shelterees," said Mrs. Neufville.
"But, once persons have left the shelter and return to their homes, it is an indication that conditions have improved on their part, and they are therefore responsible to provide food for themselves."
In the meantime, People's National Party candidate for Eastern Portland, Dr. Donald Rhodd, mentioned that consultations were held with Local Government Minister, Dean Peart, regarding the distribution of food supplies, bedding equipment, and other emergency items.
"Relief items were received by the shelter manager at the Manchioneal All-Age School, and also by other shelters throughout the constituency," said Dr. Rhodd.
