Dwayne Vaz calls for urgent action to protect families displaced from Petersfield High School shelter
/ Our Today
administrator
Central Westmoreland MP Dwayne Vaz is expressing serious concern following the Government’s decision to follow through on closing the Petersfield High School shelter, which houses more than 50 families—86 individuals, including 46 children—to facilitate the reopening of school without relocating those displaced by Hurricane Melissa on Tuesday, October 28.
While welcoming the reopening of educational institutions, Vaz is calling for urgent clarity and action to ensure that the families currently housed at the shelter are not left without safe and adequate accommodation. “We fully support the reopening of schools and understand its importance to our children and the wider community. However, this cannot come at the expense of families, especially children, being displaced without certainty as to where they will go,” said Vaz.
Vaz noted that during a visit to the shelter weeks ago, Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, gave assurances that alternative arrangements would be made for families currently residing at the facility. “When the Minister visited, commitments were made that no family would be left behind. At this moment, many residents have not been informed of confirmed alternative accommodation. We must honour the promises made to these families,” Vaz added.
According to assessments shared by humanitarian partners, the residents of the shelter include minor children and other vulnerable individuals, and no court order authorising eviction has been presented. Proceeding with closure under these conditions risks exposing families to homelessness and hardship, particularly during an already difficult recovery period. “I stand firmly with the families affected. This is a moment that calls for compassion, coordination, and responsible governance. Our duty is to protect the dignity, safety, and well-being of our people, while ensuring lawful and humane transitions,” Vaz stated.
Vaz is calling for an immediate pause on the closure of the shelter until clear, confirmed, and communicated alternative housing arrangements are in place for all remaining residents. He has also urged all relevant agencies to engage in swift, coordinated action to prevent unnecessary displacement. “We are not opposing progress. We are insisting on fairness and care. These families deserve certainty, stability, and respect as we move forward,” he concluded.
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