BLACK RIVER:
THE MINISTER of National Security, Dr. Peter Phillips, is yet to respond to the call from the St. Elizabeth Parish Council for the urgent establishment of a marine police post in Black River.
Some two months ago, Councillor for the Black River Division, Kern Smalling, submitted a resolution to the Council, calling on the Security Minister to establish the facility in the parish capital.
The resolution pointed to, among other things, the frequent showing up of hard drugs on the Pedro Cays and the numerous other illegal activities on the southern coastline. Just recently the Black River police seized an AK47 sub-machine gun at Hendricks Wharf in Black River, following which one man was taken into custody.
PRIORITY LIST
But when contacted for a comment, Junior Minister for National Security Kern Spencer said the marine post for the area was one of the main items on the Ministry's priority list. He said such a facility is needed in Black River as it would help to curb illegal activities on the southern coastline.
"Fishing is not the only activity going on at sea, especially the Pedro Cays and the areas near Treasure Beach and Black River. We want to ensure that our waters are not contaminated with illegal drugs and guns," Mr. Spencer said.
The resolution which was sent to the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC) and the other parish councils, was supported by the Manchester Parish Council.
R.D.
