Landfill fires continue to affect communities near the Cooks Landfill. Over the weekend, toxic smog spread across nearby areas.

As a result, residents in Five Islands, Hatton, and Denfields struggled to breathe. The fires continue to smoulder without control.

Meanwhile, UPP candidate Richard Lewis raised concern about the situation. He accused the government of lacking both equipment and urgency.

According to Lewis, fires burn across the landfill due to poor waste coverage. Specifically, he said garbage is not covered with enough soil.

Therefore, the fires spread easily across the site. He also described the equipment in use as inadequate.

“You need heavy-duty equipment,” Lewis said. “It’s a mess.”

In addition, Lewis warned that the health impact is growing. He claimed asthma cases have increased among residents.

For example, some people now rely on inhalers to manage symptoms. He shared a recent encounter with a resident using an asthma pump.

Because of this, he believes authorities are not taking the issue seriously. He stressed that urgent action is needed.

Furthermore, Lewis claimed that Five Islands Primary School closed early due to smog. However, the school’s principal denied this claim.

The principal stated the school did not close because of landfill smoke. This directly contradicts Lewis’s statement.

Even so, reports suggest the problem is widespread. The affected areas include Five Islands and parts of Hatton and Denfields.

Additionally, wind shifts determine which communities face the worst conditions. This makes the situation unpredictable.

Lewis also said he submitted proposals to address the landfill issue. These include better soil coverage and heavy-duty machinery.

However, he claimed authorities have not acted on these suggestions. As a result, frustration continues to grow.

“There is no will,” Lewis said. “I don’t think they really care.”

Moreover, he criticized his ABLP counterpart over the issue. He argued landfill management falls under the Ministry of Health.

Therefore, he said accountability is necessary for those seeking office. He questioned the lack of solutions presented.

With elections approaching on April 30, the issue remains urgent. Lewis is now appealing to voters for support.

Finally, he pledged to continue advocating for residents. Regardless of the election outcome, he promised to fight for the constituency.