The Editor, Sir:

As Jamaica rebuilds with a determined spirit, we must be thankful that the impact of Hurricane Dean was not greater. My heart goes out to the people who lost all of their belongings.

Hurricanes are yearly occurrences, and we have to be prepared and to deal with the damage.

The decision-makers in various government agencies can do more to minimise the risk of heavy damage. While there is much damage in Portland, St. Thomas and Clarendon, I write on behalf of the western St. Thomas region. Too often communities in the parish have gone without essential utilities for months after a natural disaster. The tenacity and determination of the people however are alive and well.

Apart from the shortages of water, light and basic food supplies in some areas, many people's lives are back to normal. As a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) who has been active during and after the storm, I would like to commend the shelter managers, police officers from Trinityville Police Station, and the road clearing crew for a job well done.

I am, etc.,

CHARLES BROWN

charliebrown1004@hotmail.com

Western St. Thomas