NOT SO MERRY XMAS
Residents affected by the noxious fumes which have been emanating from the Lower Estate Quarry in St. George for some months now, had mixed feelings about the Christmas period, even as they continue to put up with the stench coming from the landfill.
Roger Craigg spokesman for the St. George North-western Community Group which has been actively seeking redress in relation to the problem which has been ongoing for some time now, indicated that residents were not quite sure how they would celebrate this Christmas, given the issues at the Quarry operated by Anderson Cherry, CEO of Project Recycle Ltd.
“At this time of year we are usually in a joyous mood. However, we the residents of the communities affected by Mr. Cherry’s landfill are somewhat unsure of what or how to celebrate this festive season this year, because of this situation which we have found ourselves in, (through) no fault of our own,” Craigg said on the behalf of the group.
“At this time, my family and I want to wish each and every one in these communities a Merry Christmas. Five months ago most of us did not know each other, yet we came together and stood as one, for which I thank you,” he issued in a statement to members of the group.
“We have also formed formidable friendships, which I believe will grow stronger going forward into the New Year, in which we will regroup as early as the first week in January, to continue our fight for our communities and (to) rid it of this nuisance, which has been contaminating our lives,” he added.
As a result of the work of the St. George North-Western Community Group, backed by St. George North Member of Parliament Gline Clarke, residents have however seen some progress to date. Following numerous calls from frustrated residents for the Quarry to be closed, given its impact on their health and a call for government to step in and take control of the situation, the Ministry of Health issued an abatement notice on December 1, which required the closure of the dump, since it was deemed a public health threat.
Since then, the Ministry of Health has noted that it is continuing to monitor operations at the Quarry, and Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George has indicated that there has been no further dumping at the site, since the abatement order was issued.
“The priority now is to contain the possible environmental health risk, as the site continues to smoulder. As a result, he said, the Ministry and the Barbados Fire Service are working with the owner/operator of the quarry (Mr. Anderson Cherry), to ensure the fire threat is contained,” Dr. George said.
The Ministry is meanwhile advising persons with respiratory illnesses, including asthma, to avoid the area. (RSM)