THE EDITOR, Sir:
IT IS with alarm that I note the beginning of the degradation of the Emancipation Park.
My wife and I have been enjoying the ambience of this oasis in the heart of the city and noting the quality of life that it has the potential to foster.
We noted that there was some sort of return to civility especially when the military band played there on the third Sunday of November. People stood at attention emulating those who were playing the National Anthem. Afterwards people socialised and enjoyed the sight of the fountain or used the path for strolling and so on.
We returned this Sunday only to be greeted at the entrance by a fleet of unregulated taxis parked at the entrance blocking our access and vision, a cotton candy vendor had placed his wares plumb in the centre of the main entrance to the park, a peanut vendor had taken a spot amidst the parked vehicles at the curb wall. Ice cream vendors on bikes along with the ice cream van were selling ice cream on the main road to and from the car park.
As if that were not enough, various shady looking characters just hung around outside by the fence looking as if they would like to do some sort of underhand activity. Some were begging. On the south side, a jerk chicken vendor had set up shop. My family and I had gone inside only to view the fountain and stroll around the promenade. At least seven cameramen offering to take 'instant photos' were seen. To be frank, the disorder and absence of serenity turned us off so in disgust, we decided to do without our regular stroll around the walking path, and go home. This reprieve from the crime news was starting to look like a potential crime zone.
We think that selling should only be permitted in booths provided to licensed vendors. In addition, cameramen should be limited in number and those allowed be sold permits and given identification. Furthermore, taxis should be parked out of the way in an orderly fashion with a dispatcher releasing them on a first in first out basis.
The presence of uniformed police officers ordering the flow of traffic at the main drive in entrance along with the regular security and warders would help to stave off the inevitable destruction of this gem. Just look at Mandela Park and St. William Grant park, we want to prevent that happening to the Emancipation Park.
I am etc.,
ANDREW DUNBAR
aidunbar@mail.anngel.com.jm
CSO Box 8193
Kingston
Via Go-Jamaica
