Alfred Dawes worried about the outbreak of diseases from Foreign Relief Workers

Newly elected Member of Parliament, Dr. Alfred Dawes, representing Saint Catherine South Eastern, has joined Opposition Members in criticizing the Government’s handling of the Hurricane Melissa disaster relief effort.

Dr. Dawes, a medical doctor by profession, raised concerns about the potential outbreak of diseases that could emerge from foreign relief workers currently assisting in the disaster response. He pointed to the cholera outbreak in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake as a cautionary example, suggesting that Jamaica must remain vigilant in protecting public health even amid a national crisis.

However, one must ask — is this the right time to raise such an issue?
The reality is that Jamaica was ill-prepared to handle the magnitude of Hurricane Melissa, and without international assistance, the country would be left in destitution. Foreign volunteers have been instrumental in providing food, water, medical aid, and logistical support to thousands of displaced residents.

Critics have also noted that while the Opposition has been vocal at press conferences, there has been little evidence of direct on-the-ground assistance from its members in the hardest-hit communities. As one observer put it, “It’s easy to hold a press briefing — but where are the boots on the ground?”