( Real News Antigua) If the necessary cleaning of drains and waterways had taken place, the flooding that took place in certain sections of St. Mary’s North
during the passage of Tropical Storm Philippe could have been
avoided.
So says Senator Johnathan Joseph, the United Progressive Party
caretaker.
Joseph says he is disappointed and hurt that, in an active hurricane
season, the Gaston Browne Administration did not do the required
work.
As a result, and due to the negligence of Health Minister Sir Molwyn
Joseph — who is responsible for sanitation and the environment –
the flood water breached people’s homes.
He reports that some families endured water as high as their beds,
and cars were also flooded up to the height of their seats.
Ironically, Joseph says, the amount of rain that fell in these areas
does not justify the volume of flooding that was experienced.
Accordingly, he blames it on the condition of the drains and
watercourses, and says it is gross negligence on the part of the
Browne Administration.
The Cashew Hill and Bathlodge areas apparently were worst hit by
the flooding.
Meanwhile, Joseph, like his political leader, is commending the
workers of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) for their
hard work and dedication in restoring electricity to the entire island
within three days.
He says he witnessed, firsthand, the effort put in by the men, who
braved the weather to ensure that utility services were restored.
The UPP caretaker is also commending the various communities for
coming together after the storm to mount clean-up efforts.
According to Joseph, this is the type of camaraderie he loves to see
and hopes will continue – and he admonishes the people not to let
politics divide them.
In the meantime, Joseph is expressing concern over the bridge in
Bendals, which reportedly has deteriorated even further.
He says the recent rains must have compromised the structure,
which poses a danger to residents.
