THE EDITOR, Sir:IN THE wake of 'Ivan', as we grieve with those who lost loved ones, with those made homeless and indeed with all who suffered, I think it is worthwhile as a nation to pause and reflect on where we were, where we now are and what could have been.
I think it is fair to say that we were indeed fortunate as we missed the full force of the hurricane but I think also that as a nation we were prepared.
On Thursday, prior to the hurricane I listened on KLAS and heard Vando Palmer of the National Works Agency and someone from the ODPEM, and immediately I began to feel a little easier. Later that day I saw on the Weather Channel a report of Jamaicans making themselves ready. I called to mind Mayor Desmond McKenzie's insistence on drain cleaning, which I think spurred mayors in other towns to take action.
All these things worked for us or the story being told today might have been very different.
I must, however, draw attention to three public utilities, telephone, water and power. To my mind Cable & Wireless was by far the most outstanding.
I speak for myself when I say that I lost neither landline nor mobile throughout the ordeal. This to my mind is service comparable to the First World.
Water, although a dark brown in colour, never went and today Tuesday, September 14 it is again clear.
The Jamaica Public Service, I am sure, is working hard to restore power but, to my mind, were not so prepared as were the other two. Some service has been restored but it would appear they are a long way off.
As a nation let us unite to render assistance to those who have suffered. Give whatever you can be it a dollar or a loaf of bread.
I am, etc.,
H.W. SHARP
Enman Avenue
Kingston 8
