Proposed changes for Portmore are rooted in sound considerations
Published:Monday | February 17, 2025 | 10:01 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I write in response to the article titled ‘Portmore residents peeved at potential annexation without consent’, published on February 11, 2025. While the concerns raised by the residents interviewed are understandable, it is important to provide a broader context to this issue to ensure a balanced and informed public discourse.
First, the individuals quoted in the article reside in areas that are not historically or culturally part of Portmore. These areas are more geographically and culturally aligned with Spanish Town and the wider St Catherine region. Their inclusion in Portmore has been a matter of administrative convenience, rather than a reflection of their natural alignment with the municipality. The proposed changes seek to correct this misalignment, ensuring that governance structures better reflect the realities on the ground.
Second, the claim that residents were not consulted is inaccurate. There have been numerous public forums at both the national and local levels. At the national level, the Joint Select Committee of Parliament held sessions where members of the public were invited to make submissions. Locally, the Portmore Municipal Council also provided opportunities for residents to voice their opinions. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process.
Third, the concerns about a potential loss of services overlook the fact that Portmore residents have been subsidising these areas without reciprocal contributions. The services being provided to these communities are funded by Portmore taxpayers, creating an inequitable burden. Realigning these areas with Spanish Town and St Catherine would ensure a fairer distribution of resources and responsibilities, benefiting both Portmore and the communities in question.
Additionally, the suggestion that this move is politically motivated is unfounded. The creation or adjustment of constituencies is not within the authority of Parliament; it is the independent responsibility of the Electoral Commission of Jamaica. This ensures that the process remains impartial and focused on administrative efficiency, rather than political considerations.
Finally, while some residents may feel excluded, the process has been transparent and inclusive. Additional efforts can certainly be made to ensure wider awareness of public forums, but the existing opportunities for dialogue should not be overlooked.
In conclusion, the proposed changes are rooted in sound administrative, geographic, and cultural considerations. They aim to create a more equitable and efficient system of governance, ensuring that resources and responsibilities are fairly distributed. It is my hope that this broader context will help to foster a more informed and balanced discussion on this important issue.