Devon Evans, Gleaner Writer
The deplorable state of some post offices in St. Ann is said to be causing much discomfort among residents in areas served by these facilities, some of whom are now thinking of taking their grouses to the streets.
Listed among the worst-affected post offices are the Laughlands Post Office on the north coast in north west St. Ann and the Aboukir and St. D'Acre Post Office in south west St. Ann.
According to Deputy Mayor of St. Ann's Bay, Sidney Stewart, the lack of response to numerous requests from residents to have the condition of these post offices improved, has infuriated the residents.
Without a proper roof
Referring to the Laughlands Post Office, Mr. Stewart pointed out that the facility has been without a proper roof for more than three years, forcing members of staff to be using innovative means to secure mail.
Deputy Mayor Stewart also said the post office has no electricity, no running water, nor a proper sanitary convenience for members of staff.
He said both the residents, the various districts served by the post office and the St. Ann Parish Council have been making requests of the Postmaster General and the government over the past year for the building to be refurbished, without a response.
"This has made the people very angry and it is only because there is a new government in place, why they have not taken to the streets already," the deputy mayor said.
In the case of the Aboukir Post Office, councillor for the Alexandria Division, Gilbert McLoud, said the building leaks profusely whenever it rains. He said the staff have to use thick plastic to wrap up the letters and then tuck them into a corner to prevent them from getting wet.
At the St. D'Acre Post Office, also located in that division, Councillor McLeod said that, in addition to its poor state, the facility is without a sanitary convenience and workers have to be using the bathrooms of nearby residents whenever the need arises.
He said residents are requesting that these post offices receive urgent attention.
