OPINION Why the double standard at Dunbars, MP Greene?

In response to the recent fracas about the huffing of agricultural
lands at Dunbars, I heard the minister of agriculture implying that it
is much ado about nothing, really.

In essence, he “explained” that an agricultural station has no place in
the development of this up-and-coming area of the affluent
Northside, and that residential housing would be more suitable for
that prime location. And since the Cabinet had agreed on it, then it
matters little that some workers – and, by extension, the public –
disagree.

Ok. Then explain to me, Mr. Minister of Agriculture, why the Cabinet
has agreed to allow a farm to be established in the middle of other
residential communities – even though they do not enjoy the
distinction of being located in Rural North.

Is it because both St. George and St. Peter did not come in under the
Browne Administration’s column in the last General Election? Or is
it because the rules are different for different people?

I speak of the unsightly mess of overgrown bushes; an unfinished
and undetermined concrete structure; and a busted pond that are
enclosed by a sturdy wire fence on land that reportedly was sold or
leased to a member of the Cabinet staff.

It offends the community of Weirs, as it is the entrance to this
residential development, which, incidentally, is a “covenanted”
neighbourhood that supposedly does not permit such ventures.

Now, this bushy mess is in stark contrast to the manicured berm
literally on the other side of the road, where the grass is regularly

trimmed and (local?) palms are cultivated for the pleasure of the
residents of the National Housing development at Paynters – but not
of the older community of Paynters Paradise, where the infamous
Social Security houses stand.

This Cabinet-sanctioned farm also creates a bigger offence in its
indifference to human health. Like all other agricultural
developments, it is expected that “Farmer Brown,” whoever he
might really be, will be using pesticides and herbicides in order to
protect his investment.

But what of the residents downwind of these toxic chemicals? And
even those upwind and cross-wind, since the farm literally is next-
door neighbour to several houses?

Are these residents, post-COVID, expected to wear masks at home
during spraying season? Or will they become, like the residents of
Bendals and Pigotts, victims of all types of respiratory diseases, or
even cancer? And with our healthcare system as it is?

Most of the residents of Weirs, Paynters Paradise, Paynters West,
and National Housing are still paying the interest – not even the
principal, yet – on their homes. Can you imagine 20 to 30 years of
paying for a house situated next to a farm that has no moral or legal
right in your neighbourhood? And can you imagine the depreciation
in property values?

I want to know why Minister Chet Greene, his Cabinet colleagues,
and the officers of the Development Control Authority – who are so
good at pushing down certain people’s property – think it is quite all
right for the hardworking families in these communities to be
subjected to all that comes with this farm, while the future residents
of Dunbars – ah who dem go be? – are already guaranteed Cabinet
protection?

D.Gisele Isaac
Very Concerned Resident

This letter was published on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in the Daily
Observer.