By Spokesman Newsroom
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 16th February 2023)- “We must protect our children. They must not only be safe but feel safe. A school is our children’s second home and there is no plausible reason why such a heinous act should occur in the vicinity of any school.” So said Parliamentary Representative for Constituency Two (Central Basseterre) Marsha Henderson in an address to the nation on Thursday 16th February 2023 in wake of the recent deadly shooting which took place at the premises of the Irish Town Primary School having informed that the “school remains closed until further notice.” She shared that the Minister of Education Dr.
Geoffrey Hanley recently had an urgent meeting to discuss the safe reopening of the school. “In this regard the Minister of Education had an urgent meeting where initiatives to ensure the safe reopening of the Irish Town Primary School were addressed.
The Ministry has also agreed to provide support for the school , staff and students who will be grieving the loss of their beloved security guard. Additionally, arrangements have been made to provide additional security particular to the Central Basseterre communities in the interim.” Henderson stated that town hall meetings will be conducted.“We intend to embark on a series of town hall meetings where residents will get the opportunity to express their concerns and make recommendations as to how we can continue toward rebuilding a brighter and safer Central Basseterre.” The first-time elected government minister pledged to do all necessary so that Central Basseterre remains one of the best communities to live and work saying: “I intend to do all that is necessary to ensure that Central Basseterre continues to remain one of the best communities to live and to work.” Additionally, she called on all residents to champion peace.
“As a community, we must champion peace and prosperity for one another. Central Basseterre is a community that aims to uplift our people and we cannot be derailed from our core values . Say no to violence. Say no to crime.
We must not – LOCAL NEWS – 3 solve our issue guided by hate , animosity and anger but find responsible and meaningful ways to maintain our dignity. We are centralized. We rise to the challenge and we can and will overcome every obstacle placed in our path.
Meanwhile Dr. Hanley, in an address to the nation on Wednesday 15th February expressed that it was with a heavy heart that he addressed the nation that day.“After the close of school, a shocking senseless act of violence unfolded on the premises of the Irish Town Primary School.
This horrific crime has resulted in the death of one of our security officers. I am appalled at the callous disregard for human life and condemn all acts of violence,” he stated. The Education Minister went on to say: “Our schools are safe zones where members of the school community should feel safe.
Therefore, the Ministry of Education views this violent act as a direct attack on the education fraternity and the wider school community. I am certain that the effects from this heinous crime will reverberate throughout the school and surrounding neighbourhood and as such we pledge to do everything within our power to re-establish that sense of safety and security at the Irish Town Primary School.” He added during his remarks: “Every member of staff is viewed as being critical to the daily operations of the school and this officer was no different.
The education sector has lost a stalwart who will be remembered as punctual, kind-hearted helpful officer.” Parents and guardians were asked to take note that the Irish (cont’d on page 05Town Primary School was closed for face-to-face instructions “from today Wednesday 15th to Friday 17th February to allow our staff and students to receive compassionate care.” Furthermore, he disclosed that school updates will be given on Friday 17th February, via ZIZ and other media houses. Citizens and residents, it is imperative that the family, students and staff are given the opportunity to grieve with little to no intrusion and I ask that you respect their privacy.
The Acting Prime Minister publicly urged for “support and cooperation to the police as they work diligently to solve these crimes.” while adding that “The Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, who is currently on duty overseas wishes to convey his sincerest condolences to the family, staff and students of the Irish Town Primary School.” “…citizens and residents, we have a collective responsibility to be agents of peace so that our federation remains a country where peace abounds,” Dr.
