The Editor, Sir:

I am deeply dismayed that the recent devastation in the resort town of Ocho Rios by heavy rains has highlighted the type of politics that exist in Jamaica.

Days after the rains, as I traversed slowly through the town of Ocho Rios due to the pile-up of debris and mud, I noticed that a number of persons who were working to clean and clear the streets were clad in their political party colour. I find this recurring trend quite disconcerting and embarrassing.

Why would a project of such nature be politicised? And, why didn't the pertinent member of parliament, whose T-shirts were being worn, or the assigned contractor for the project take the appropriate measures to deter this? Don't they know the message that is being conveyed? Or, is it premeditated?

Numerous challenges

In a time like this, when the challenges are numerous for the citizens of Ocho Rios, political party preference is not welcome.

Furthermore, what we need to be cognisant of is the fact that Ocho Rios is the ultimate destination for tourists from all over the world and what we do here impacts their impressions and their likely return.

I implore the relevant authority to have a serious look at this phenomenon. Let us put politics behind us and put people first.

It is my unyielding belief, that if contracts are to be disbursed for employment, they must be done with 'equity' with the people at the centre.

I look forward to the day when Jamaicans will start putting Jamaica first and not politics.

I am, etc.,

TREVOR LEE COLE

trevorcole24@gmail.com

Greenwich Estate

Drax Hall, St. Ann