McKenzie: Gov't improving emergency response mechanism for hurricane season

 

With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season set to begin on Sunday, June 1, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has declared that the government has been improving its emergency response mechanism. 

 

During his contribution to the sectoral debate in the House of Representatives on Wednesday afternoon, Minister Mackenzie said the government has invested heavily to improve the emergency response and communication network of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).

 

"I will not deny that there have been challenges with the operations at the ODPEM. Madam Speaker, I want to say to the country that despite the shortcomings, they continue to provide vital service to the people of Jamaica. This government has invested significantly in the work of the ODPEM, and we continue, Madam Speaker, to strengthen the organisation.

 

"Last year I spoke about the JICA project, a joint project with the Japanese government, to strengthen the communications capabilities of the organisation. That emergency radio system was tested during [Hurricane] Beryl, Madam Speaker, and I must say it works. Starlink will also be a new feature this year in the communication tools of the ODPEM," he noted.

 

With predictions for an active hurricane season, Minister McKenzie called for national unity around disaster preparedness efforts. 

 

"I urge support in speaking to the nation about preparing ourselves. You know, when we talk negative and we are critical about sensitive services that are offered by government, people become confused because they don't understand why we are saying this and somebody else is saying that. Madam Speaker, the question of disaster must never encounter political roadblock in this country, and I call for national unity. I call for national unity in preparing the country for the upcoming hurricane season," he urged.

 

Mr. McKenzie said all shelters across the island are in a state of readiness, adding that Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness is expected to address the country next week on disaster preparedness.