Freshly erected Port Antonio Bypass sign vandalised

A sign which was erected on Tuesday with the words 'Coming soon, Port Antonio Bypass', at Dolphin Bay in Portland was damaged early Wednesday morning in what appears to be a case of vandalism.

The incident has triggered outrage among supporters of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

It is against that background that the incumbent Member of Parliament for Portland Eastern, Ann-Marie Vaz, is again calling for peace among supporters on both sides of the political divide ahead of the September 3 parliamentary election.

"I am again appealing for calm and I know that it is a very frustrating period for the electorate, but we are all Portlanders," she said.

"It makes no sense for us to resort to tribal politics. When election is over we all have to share the same space, eat at the same restaurant, and go to the same dance or party. Our children and grandchildren will play together. I am calling for all my Portland family to allow good sense to prevail.

"There have been incidents or rather allegations about party flags, fabric, and posters being ripped down. And I say to you all this kind of practice is unacceptable. I am hoping to meet with the police to have discussions and how best the situation can be handled. I want this to be an incident free election, without any act of violence or intimidation," she added.

On June 27, Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness broke ground for construction of the US$81 million Port Antonio Bypass, which is aimed at reducing traffic congestion in the resort town and creating economic opportunities for residents.

- Gareth Davis

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