WESTERN BUREAU:
CITING WHAT he calls Government's inability to facilitate development in Portland, president of the parish's Chamber of Commerce, Paul Martin, says the private sector must act quickly to rescue it from its economic plight.
"Over the last 20 years we have been neglected in terms of infrastructure maintenance and development," Mr. Martin told The Gleaner this week. "Central government has played a role in holding down Portland. It has taken over most of the attractions and have them sitting idle. Reich Falls is a prime example."
The chamber president contended that, while its role is pivotal, the Government must "provide the type of environment that is conducive to economic growth."
ALLIANCES BEING LOOKED AT
He said alliances with overseas entities interested in investing in the parish, such as the National Black Chamber of Commerce in the United States, were being looked at with a view to creating sustainable linkages.
"Our tourism product has to be exploited. The parish has the greatest potential for tourism, with more natural attractions than any other area its size, anywhere in the world."
Port Antonio Mayor Rupert Kelly said that, with shortfalls in infrastructure development, Portland was running the risk of being left behind other parishes, which are seeing tremendous growth.
INFRASTRUCTURE SETBACK
"Infrastructure is one of the biggest setbacks, especially to the Rio Grande, Hope Bay and Buff Bay valleys, which are prime eco-tourism locations," Mr. Kelly said. "The National Works Agency is an embarrassment to the parish of Portland."
He added: "Our resources are under-exploited. We have 22 attractions but only eight are accessible and are being used to their full potential."
