Dear Sir,

I was overjoyed to hear of the plan to rid our pristine waters of deserted and abandoned boats. I now anxiously await a plan to deal with houses that have been abandoned, fallen into disrepair and are now in a state of dereliction.

In my neighbourhood of St Monica’s Road, there are for such houses. Sadly, in the area of North Hamilton, this situation is all too common. Some may say the owners should be held accountable for their situation, but guaranteed they don’t like the situation any more than I do and can’t do any better.

Not having these properties as a viable accommodation exacerbates the homelessness situation. The grand reality is that it’s insulting to those of our hard-working citizens who desperately need housing.

Every square foot of this island must be protected from this wanton neglect. Our land is precious — but expensive — and must be preserved, appreciated and nurtured.

JULIA ROSALIE DEARS

Pembroke