PM plans to tackle JAs beach erosion

A project team has been set up to examine appropriate solutions to tackle the beach erosion problems now threatening sections of the Negril coastline.



The project team set up by Prime Minister Bruce Golding is to be headed by state minister Daryl Vaz.



The project is to be anchored by the National Environment and Planning Agency and will include representatives from various agencies in Negril including the Chamber of Commerce and the Negril Chapter of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association.



A release from the Office of the Prime Minister said the decision to set up the project team was taken during a meeting with tourism officials, member of parliament for western Westmoreland Dr. Wykeham McNeil and the prime minister last week.



Mr. Vaz is expected to meet with members in an effort to look at the recommendations being made on how to stem the erosion problem and to help identify the funds.



Meanwhile, managing director of Smith Warner International, David Smith says the Negril beach has been eroding over the last two to three years.



He says there are numerous causes, including water quality, excessive development, over -fishing and the death of coral reef communities.