Be Careful on the Roads Says Holness
Prime Minister Andrew Holness is again calling on Jamaicans to be careful on the roads and especially children to exercise good judgment in their choice of transport to and from school. Prime Minister Holness’ comment comes in light of a tragic incident involving students from Garvey Maceo in Clarendon; resulting in serious injuries to at least 28 people including 23 students.
The Prime Minister said, “We have been running a campaign on social media and wherever I get the chance I am spreading the message about road safety. All Jamaicans must make road safety their priority as a lot of the incidents are not because of road conditions or the weather, but careless road use and a disregard for the rules of the road or respect for fellow road users.”
He added that, “While moral suasion is important, the government also recognizes that enhanced laws have to be in place to deal with those who consistently put Jamaicans, especially our children at risk. Amendments to the Road Traffic Act are coming and will be accompanied by a national road safety campaign that involves partners such as citizens, police, corporate Jamaica and international interests. We cannot continue to hear of these incidents, which not only impacts families, but are a charge on the public purse.”
The Prime Minister is calling on all stakeholders to join with the government to assist in behavior change in the way drivers use our thoroughfares and how passengers react to reckless behavior which puts them at risk.
He is also extending well wishes to the Garvey Maceo family and prays for a speedy recovery of those injured.