FIGHT FOR CLEAN WATER IN HANOVER

In 2006, the National Environment and Planning Agency granted a permit to Delapenha’s Funeral Home to conduct burials in the Shettlewood/Ramble area of Hanover. The residents were angry because they feared formaldehyde contamination of the nearby springs that provided water to over 300 residents. Knowing his effectiveness and passion to help people, some members of the Ramble Community Development Committee (CDC) asked D.K. to help them to get the decision overturned. D.K.’s fire to fight for what was right for people kicked in. He coordinated countless meetings, led by the CDC, with residents and government officials to get the concerns heard and the matter moving. They lobbied to get an EIA (environmental impact assessment) done and then engaged other experts to give opinions when residents questioned the validity of the EIA. All this was done while the PNP (People’s National Party) was in government. As citizens saw his commitment and style of leadership on a matter close to their heart, they clamoured for him to become their next MP (member of Parliament). Despite the PNP losing the elections of 2007, Eastern Hanover was won by D.K. Duncan and he became the MP. He and the residents continued to lobby for the cemetery to be located elsewhere.

Even in the face of violent intimidation experienced by community leaders, who agitated and made sure no burials were done during this stalemate, D.K. and the residents did not flinch. In the end, the water supply was protected. The funeral home had to find a new location. D.K. led with heart and guts and was always ready to stand up for what was right.