Member of Parliament for St Andrew East Central and Opposition Spokesperson on Urban Renewal and Redevelopment, Dennis Gordon, has challenged Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness to re-examine the Government’s fiscal and infrastructure priorities in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, November 4, after the prime minister’s statement on the national relief programme, Gordon posed questions about debt policy, infrastructure funding, and the urgent need for repairs to the Sandy Gully, which is posing a threat to residents of Cassia Park and adjoining communities.

He pointed out that the Government set aside approximately $14 billion more than projected to service the debt up to August, and urged the Government to balance fiscal prudence with the pressing needs of affected citizens and infrastructure rehabilitation.

Gordon also sought clarity on the Prime Minister’s plan to accelerate development in the 50 per cent of the island not severely affected by the hurricane. He argued that timely investment in infrastructure would not only accelerate recovery but also stimulate employment and business activity across key sectors.

The Opposition Spokesperson used the opportunity to highlight what he described as an emergency situation affecting the Sandy Gully, particularly in the Cassia Park area, where residents have been pleading for action. “The people of Cassia Park are complaining bitterly about their property being compromised,” Gordon told the House.
This intervention follows a Jamaica Observer report on October 28, 2025, in which residents accused authorities of showing an “uncaring” attitude toward their safety concerns and described the gully’s deteriorating walls and collapsed embankments as a daily threat.

Gordon reiterated that the country’s recovery must be tied to long-term urban renewal, stressing that neglected drainage, ageing roads, and informal settlements continue to worsen disaster impacts. He said the Opposition would continue to advocate for equitable resource allocation, community resilience, and a people-centred rebuilding agenda.

“Post-disaster recovery isn’t just about patching holes,” he said. “It’s about rebuilding stronger, safer, and smarter communities for all Jamaicans.”