Former Prime Minister PJ Patterson, recently named by Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness as one of the key figures to assist in Jamaica’s post-Hurricane Melissa recovery, is emphasizing the need for national unity as the country begins the rebuilding process.
Speaking with The Gleaner, Patterson stressed that while the government holds primary responsibility for coordinating relief, the scale of the disaster will stretch state agencies beyond their limits. He highlighted the importance of collaboration across political lines and cautioned that rebuilding the country’s infrastructure—including utilities, light posts, and other essential services, cannot follow “business as usual.”
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Patterson also referenced past projects that successfully placed utilities underground, suggesting that such approaches could be considered as Jamaica charts its path forward. He underscored that political affiliations and religious considerations should not influence the recovery efforts, calling for a partnership-driven approach to rebuild communities efficiently and equitably.
The former prime minister’s remarks signal a commitment to fostering cooperation and inclusivity in one of the most challenging recovery periods in recent Jamaican history.
