The Editor, Sir:

The collapse of gully banks throughout the Corporate Area, as a result of rains associated with Tropical Storm Gustav, and the loss of life and property, again highlight the great need for the restoration of law and order in Jamaica.

The extensive Sandy Gully scheme is now just over 50 years old. It can serve for many decades more if properly maintained. The retaining walls were not designed to be foundation for all the houses, shacks and even two-storey concrete structures that line its banks in the Corporate Area.We need to restore the designated clearance areas on both sides of the gully for access to clean and maintain this waterway, as well as to remove the excess stress on the retaining walls.

Loss of lives

If we don't act now, we will undermine the entire drainage system and continue to expose residents, both squatters and legal, to increasing loss of lives and properties.

The Government must act in the interest of the people and not worry about votes. There is enough land to relocate these persons, as they must live somewhere and most cannot afford rent.

I am, etc;

KEITH PATRICK

patrick_keith@hotmail.com

Kingston 10