PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
SECTIONS OF Portland felt the effects of yesterday's islandwide protest against high prices, which was led by the Jamaica Labour Party.
Although many businesses, among them mini marts and corner shops, remained open, demonstrators blocked several roads in areas such as Breastworks, Castle, Orange Bay and Buff Bay.
The roadblocks were short-lived because they were quickly cleared by the police. There was one exception though. Members of a police party looked on for hours as several residents from Hope Bay formed a human roadblock.
When The Gleaner visited the area, people were seen standing in the middle of the Hope Bay main road, close to the Hope Bay Police Station. Other protesters were playing drums and dancing in the streets while others displayed placards, which read, 'Government sold us out', 'JPS must go. They are robbing us' and 'Government should consider the people'.
JLP caretaker for Western Portland, Kenneth Rowe said he was in solidarity with the demonstrators because the high cost of living is taking a toll on residents. This is probably the only way consumers, other local residents and the electors are able to voice their frustration, said Mr. Rowe.
