Education and youth minister condemns shooting of children in Clarendon
Published:Monday | August 12, 2024 | 2:25 PM
Minister of Education and Youth, Fayval Williams, has strongly condemned the brutal gun attack on Sunday night in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon, which claimed the lives of eight people, including seven-year-old Aiden Bartley, from Four Paths Primary and Infant School.
Williams expressed profound grief over the tragedy, which has sent shock waves throughout the community and Jamaica at large.
“This horrific act of violence is a devastating reminder of the challenges we face in ensuring the safety and security of our communities, especially our children,” Williams stated.
“Our hearts are shattered by the loss of young Aiden Bartley, who had his entire future ahead of him, only to have it cruelly taken away. I extend my deepest condolences to the families affected by this atrocity. No family should have to endure such unimaginable pain and sorrow.”
The youth minister also called for collective action to address the pervasive violence in Clarendon, saying "we must come together as a nation to confront this crisis and work towards a future where our children can grow up without fear.”
She said the Ministry of Education and Youth will be providing counselling and support services to the affected families and the wider school community at Four Paths Primary and Infant School.
She added that the ministry remains committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for all students and will continue to work closely with law enforcement and community leaders to protect the well-being of Jamaica's children.
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