THE EDITOR, Sir:
WE WRITE in response to a letter written by Delroy Lawrence and published in your paper on July 13, 2003. Mr. Lawrence questioned the absence of the Litter Act and its impact on our environment. We wish to publicly commend Mr. Lawrence for this initiative and for realising that the protection of the environment is everyone's responsibility. The National Solid Waste Management Authority, acknowledges the fact that there is a serious litter problem in Jamaica, and is working assiduously to ensure that proper solid waste management techniques are practised by ensuring that the collection to the disposal of solid waste is done in a very effective and sustainable manner.
REPEALED
We wish to advise that the Litter Act has been repealed and replaced by the National Solid Waste Management Act, 2001. Arising from that Act was the formation of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) in April 2002. The NSWMA has been given the responsibility to effectively manage Jamaica's solid waste in an effort to safeguard public health and protect the environment. This will be achieved through public education and the necessary enforcement measures.
The National Solid Waste Management Act is more comprehensive and incorporates provisions related to litter. These regulations are at an advanced stage of development and now with the Ministry of Local Government, Community Development & Sport for final approval.
The enforcement of the new and more punitive legislation includes a ticketing system that will be used to levy a penalty of up to $10,000 on persons found littering. These fines should be paid at any Collectorate within a specified time. Failure to pay will result in the offender being taken before a Resident Magistrate.
MUNICIPAL FORCE
The municipal police force, a combination of the Environmental Wardens and the Island Special Constabulary Force, will be the principal enforcement body for the solid waste legislation. The severity of the Act will definitely be felt by offenders as soon as the relevant legislation is approved.
We are, however, aware of the need for public education. The NSWMA is preparing to launch a comprehensive programme leading to behaviour change. We look forward to the support of readers such as Mr Lawrence in assisting us in fulfilling our mandate.
Mr Lawrence may collect a copy of the Act from our offices at anytime during regular working hours. Once again, we appreciate public contribution to our efforts to improve our environment.
I am etc,
NICOLE WEST-HAYLES
nhayles@nswma.gov.jm
National Solid Waste
Management Authority
