Deputy mayor leads Portmore parish referendum call after Gov’t change to timeline
SEVERAL RESIDENTS in Portmore, led by Deputy Mayor Alric Campbell, are calling for a referendum in the upcoming local government election to determine whether the municipality should become Jamaica’s 15th parish or maintain its city municipality status.
The demand for a direct say in the fate of Portmore has intensified following Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s recent announcement that the parish designation would be put on hold until after the local government election.
Campbell emphasised the importance of residents having a voice in the decision-making process, stating, “Now that the prime minister has changed his mind about tabling legislation to make Portmore Jamaica’s 15th parish, the opportunity for the people to have a say now presents itself.”
The call for a referendum, according to Campbell, is rooted in the belief that it would provide a clear and democratic representation of the desires of the Portmore populace. He expressed confidence in the Electoral Office of Jamaica’s capability to structure the question on the ballot effectively.
And while the municipality has sought additional time for community consultations, Campbell argued: “A secret ballot in the form of a referendum would be the most effective way to gauge the true intentions of the Portmore residents and would eliminate the need for community consultations and the Government’s imposition.”
POLITICAL ADVANTAGE
He dismissed Holness’s reasoning for designating parish status on Portmore, asserting that the Government should not impose decisions on the community against their expressed will.
Holness last Wednesday, during the launch of the Portmore Resilience Park, stated that the Government’s decision to give Portmore parish status was not driven by gaining political advantage, but by the necessity for proper administration in a rapidly growing municipality.
Portmore resident Anthony Grant voiced support for a referendum, stating, “Since there is so much controversy, I think the people who have to live in Portmore should be allowed to decide,” he told The Gleaner.
Cheryl Jones, another Portmore resident, echoed this sentiment, expressing favour for a vote to avoid political manipulation.
“It would not be a bad idea to put the question to the people in a vote; at least the results would be the wishes of the people and would be void of political manipulation by either side,” she remarked.
In addressing a narrative in the public space, Campbell clarified that the Portmore City Municipality is supportive of establishing a climate-smart park. He dispelled any misconceptions, stating, “This project is the most efficient as it relates to the approval process, within a week after receiving the plans, they were approved by the municipality,” the deputy mayor disclosed.
He added: “We accept that it is an identity for the general population of Portmore, and we welcome it, playing a role not only as cheerleaders, but as regulators.”