People’s National Party (PNP) caretaker for Portland Eastern, Isat Buchanan, has described the current state of the Marine Police Station in Port Antonio, Portland, as “disgraceful” and is calling for the urgent disbursement of funds to repair the facility.
A video posted on Buchanan’s Facebook page showed leaks in various sections of the roof at the police station during a recent shower of rain.
He highlighted that the facility, which is a critical hub for law enforcement in the parish, has been plagued by water damage from persistent leaks, deteriorating walls and damaged flooring.
“The current state of this station is disgraceful and reflects poorly on the government’s priorities. We must act now to ensure officers can effectively serve and protect the people of Portland,” Buchanan said in a video broadcast.
“The leaking roof and crumbling infrastructure have created hazardous conditions for police officers and the community they serve,” Buchanan said while noting that these issues not only compromise the health and safety of officers but also hinder the effective delivery of services to the people of Portland.
“I’m demanding immediate resource allocation to restore the Portland Marine Police Station to a functional and safe standard. Our police officers deserve a safe, secure environment to work in,” he added.
Buchanan said that the issue is symptomatic of a broader problem of neglected infrastructure in eastern Portland.
Against that background, he also called for a comprehensive review of spending within the Ministry of National Security.
Buchanan also questioned what he described as “the silence and inaction of the sitting Member of Parliament for Eastern Portland, [Ann-Marie Vaz].
“We deserve answers. Where is the MP? Why has this situation been allowed to deteriorate to such a critical state?” he asked.
Buchanan said the situation is unacceptable and is evidence of the “ leadership vacuum” in the area.
– Tanesha Mundle
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