Negril’s Unmet Needs Demand Priority Over Airport Proposal, Says Ian Hayles

Negril, Jamaica. October 31, 2024: Ian Hayles, Opposition Spokesperson on Water and MP Candidate for Western Westmoreland, has voiced strong opposition to the government’s recent push for a new international airport in Negril, asserting that the proposal disregards critical, unmet infrastructure needs that would benefit both residents and tourists.

“The residents of Negril have been waiting years for essential services like reliable water access, road improvements, and upgrades to our town’s infrastructure. Instead, we see government energy channeled towards an airport project. What Negril truly needs is water security for our hotels, both small and large, and for the 35% of residential customers who still lack a reliable water supply through the National Water Commission (NWC),” said Hayles.

He further emphasized the need to ease traffic congestion around Lucea, a frequent bottleneck that causes significant delays for both citizens and visitors. “What the government should be focusing on is a bypass road for Lucea to reduce traffic congestion, helping travelers enter and exit more smoothly without the undue delays we currently face,” he added.

Hayles also pointed to the longstanding neglect of Negril’s West End, where a facelift is urgently needed to revamp the area and improve the community’s appeal to tourists and locals alike. Reflecting on the practicality of airport proposals, he noted that Air Jamaica and other airlines previously operated flights into Negril’s aerodrome, yet it proved financially unfeasible and unsustainable over time.

“The government owes Negril’s residents the basics first. It is disheartening to see millions allocated to a speculative airport project instead of delivering on fundamental promises to our community. Negril deserves sustainable, people-centered development that prioritizes infrastructure and reliable services,” Hayles concluded.

The Opposition is calling on the government to reassess its priorities in Negril, advocating for solutions that will provide immediate and lasting benefits for residents and visitors.