WESTERN BUREAU:

The rigorous enforcement of the Noise Abatement Act by the police and the prosecution of several offenders have left several stakeholders in the Negril entertainment fraternity hopping mad.

"Some 22 business operators have been hit with summonses within recent weeks for alleged breaches of the Noise Abatement Act," said businessman Clive 'Cubba' Pringle of the Negril MSME (Micro Small and Medium Enterprises). I understand that one person was also arrested."

Things reportedly came to a head on Sunday night when residents and tourists turned up at the Norman Manley Beach Park for the regular Sunday night jam session only to realise that the police had not granted permission for the staging of the event.

"Everybody just got real mad about the situation and staged a demonstration right away," said a vendor who was on location.

"All some of the tourists joined in the demonstration because they, too, wanted the session to go ahead."

While noting that the law should not be flouted, Pringle steered clear of blaming the police, claiming the root of the problem was the failure of Government to act on a recommendation from Negril Chamber of Commerce and the MSME to create an entertainment zone in the resort town.

"If we had an entertainment zone with the kind of special designation that is given for Reggae Sumfest and the Jamaica Jazz Festival, we would not be having this problem," said Pringle. "When visitors come to Jamaica, they come to have a good time, so we need to make provision for those who want to party at nights."

When Deputy Superintendent Egbert Parkins - subofficer in charge of Negril - was contacted, he said the resort town had a night noise problem and the police had an obligation to enforce the law.

"I am just doing my job," said Parkins.

"The law is the law and unless it is changed, people will have to comply. If we warn you and you don't take heed, then other actions will have to be taken."

In an effort to avoid a repeat of Sunday night's situation at the Norman Manley Beach Park, a meeting has been arranged between the Police High Command, the Negril Chamber of Commerce and the Negril MSME today to take a collective look at the situation.

"It is indeed true that we will be having this meeting on Friday," said Parkins.

"We welcome this opportunity to explain the law to those who might be unclear about it."

adrian.frater@gleanerjm.com