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In Jamaica, Backlash Over Limestone Quarry in Ecological Area Sparks Youth Online Activism
There s a new wave of environmental consciousness in jamaica
A decision by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness in favour of a limestone quarry in an ecologically sensitive area has provoked an angry backlash among environmental advocates, tourism stakeholders and several sectors of civil society.
It has also sparked an energetic social media campaign by a group of young, passionate activists: #Youth4PuertoBueno.
The local stakeholders of Puerto Bueno Mountain, St Ann, have raised concerns about the failed petition on the Office of the Prime Minister’s (OPM) website to stop mining in the Dry Harbour Mountains.
At the close of the 40-day period to garner 15,000 signatures, the petition posted by the OPM received only 5,548. Had it gained the requisite number of signatures, it would have prompted an official response from Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
According to environmental educator, biologist and spokesperson for the local Puerto Bueno Mountain stakeholders, Wendy Lee, the leading players in the fight to stop mining in the area are still puzzled about the origins of the posted petition.
Several weeks ago, a respected Jamaican scientist sought my support in condemning the provision of a lease to mine in the Puerto Bueno Mountains of St Ann. I knew very little about the matter at the time and decided to inform myself. Two days later, a doctor called me. He was annoyed. He made some comments about the prime minister’s decision to make that lease available and did not wait for a response. His statements were not flattering. That Thursday, a man who is given free rein on a radio station in the afternoons made some comments about those who made the lease possible. I suspect a first-year law student could successfully bring a defamation lawsuit against him.