The Portland Health Department has announced that a comprehensive rodent control programme will soon be shared with stakeholders in the parish, aimed at preserving the health and safety of both residents and visitors.
During a recent monthly meeting of the Portland Health Department, Medical Officer of Health, Dr Sharon Lewis, highlighted that complaints about rodent infestations have been reported in Port Antonio and various other communities throughout the parish.
Dr Lewis stated, “In 2024, the Health Department, in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation, implemented a small rodent control programme in Port Antonio, which achieved some success. But due to the continued solid waste issues, the situation has worsened.”
She elaborated, “Some citizens are indiscriminately disposing of food and other waste, and the solid waste collection and temporary storage sites or receptacles in several communities across the parish are often filled and overflowing with waste that is not being properly containerized for extended periods.”
Additionally, Dr Lewis noted, “While the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NWSMA) trucks are observed collecting solid waste regularly, the receptacles are being filled faster than they can be cleared. This situation will, therefore, need to be assessed so that appropriate measures can be taken to preserve the health and safety of the public.”
The Health Department is continuing discussions with relevant agencies to improve solid waste management throughout the parish, particularly in Port Antonio, to help minimize the breeding of rodents.
“We also had dialogue with other entities regarding the implementation of a comprehensive rodent control programme. We are currently revising the proposal for this comprehensive programme and, when it is submitted, we look forward to the support of all the relevant stakeholders, such as public agencies and departments, private entities, businesses, the Portland Municipal Corporation, Members of Parliament, citizens, and visitors of Portland, for the implementation of the program,” added Dr Lewis.
She also emphasised the anticipation of adequate budgetary support from the stakeholders: “We want our beautiful parish to be a safe place to live, work, and vacation, and for the aesthetics to be kept at a high standard.”
