Jamaica Gleaner
Published: Saturday | April 4, 2009
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MP appeals for aid in the Rio Grande Valley
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Portland:Dr Donald Rhodd, member of parliament for East Portland, is appealing for the construction of an alternative route for more than 3,000 almost-marooned residents.

Friday, a major road leading into the communities of Mill Bank, Comfort Castle, Cornwall Barracks and Moore Town collapsed in early February, leaving residents to try unconventional means of transporting themselves out of their areas.

Those residents are now fearful that the Rio Grande, which they have to cross to get out, could be dangerous for students and the elderly.

Against that background, the MP is seeking an immediate response from government.

"These are farming communities, which are the bread basket of this parish," he said.

"The road is cut off and residents now have to brave the currents, while crossing the Rio Grande, which poses serious threat to their lives. Their livelihood is now hanging in limbo."

Since the collapse of the main road at Friday in February, hundreds of students have been absent from school regularly as persistent rain has prevented them from crossing the Rio Grande.

- Gareth Davis

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