We are aware of concerns regarding drain cleaning, particularly the buildup at the mouth of the Sandy Gully drain. While over 400 million has been spent on clearing drains and preparing for Hurricane Melissa, some areas still show sediment accumulation. The National Works Agency (N.W.A.) has cut trenches through these buildups to allow water flow. Additionally, the National Solid Waste Authority (N.S.W.A.) has reported an increase in requests for garbage and tree cutting removal. Cuttings and unsecured debris pose the greatest risk of blockages. Citizens are urged to secure cuttings and garbage on their property to prevent them from being carried into drains and gullies during the hurricane. We are committed to ensuring all agencies are properly resourced to manage these risks and ask everyone to take precautionary measures ahead of the hurricane.(Andrew Holness)