In 2017, a plan was shared by then Security Minister Robert Montague, to erect a special monument to honour the memory of the Jamaica Constabulary Force members who die in the line of duty. Funds had also been identified within the ministry to build the monument estimated to cost from $11 to $13 million, and two designs were received for consideration. However, to date, that monument has not been made, a situation which has prompted further calls for it be built amid the recent killing of two officers while on duty.
“We have long been calling for a wall, a wall to be erected in honour of our colleagues who die for this country and the government has not done anything to respond to those calls,” says Chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation, Sergeant Patrae Rowe. “We believe that it is full time for the government, not only in their rhetoric to express sorrow or commitment to police but demonstrate that they are doing something physical, something monumental and give reverence for our colleagues who have died for this country.”
Sergeant Patrae Rowe says many are now observing to see what will be done in honour of the officers and those who have died before.
“We have longed called for the government to pay attention to people who give their lives for this country. In other jurisdiction, people who die in service to their country are recognised. In Jamaica, it is not the case,” adds Sergeant Rowe. “These young men died in service to Jamaica. These young men died because of the decision they made to serve this country and it is full time for the government to recognise that.”
The proposed monument was to be erected on the campus of the National Police College of Jamaica at Twickenham Park, in St. Catherine but Sergeant Rowe believes the National Heroes Park would be more fitting.
“Our colleagues who leave from humble beginnings in the name of service to country and for the love of Jamaica and died because of it is nothing short of heroic.”
More than 900 officers have died in the line of duty since the Jamaica Constabulary Force was established in 1867.
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