Questionable Land Ownership Could Lead to Political Firestorm

Residents of a St. Thomas community, are continuing to voice their discontent over a contentious issue that could trigger a political firestorm. The dispute arose from the residents who claim a family of great political background within the constituency is barring passers-by from a property they say is theirs, creating an inability for them to access the beach, they once treasured. 

The Pearnel Charles family has come under harsh criticism recently after property claims were made against them.

Residents of Pera, St. Thomas allege the Charles’ family is now prohibiting them from walking across their property to access a beach they claim was once opened to the public for over 70 years.

Residents say the family not only mounted “no trespassing” and “private property” signs on the land but has barbed wire fencing built, which they believe is in an effort to prevent them from accessing the beach.

Opposition Leader and President of the People’s National Party (PNP) has joined the conversation, he was on site recently and is calling on the public defender to look into the matter as he believes the member of parliament Dr. Michelle Charles may be looking out for the best interest of her family and not the people she serves.