VOX POP: Should the Government have allowed Jamaican cruise ship workers to land?

The Government’s refusal to allow 43 Jamaican ship workers aboard the Marella Discovery 2 to land amid restrictions on all incoming passengers has sparked a heated debate.

The Gleaner asked some shoppers at Tropical Plaza in Kingston if they believed the Government should have allowed the cruise ship workers to enter.

“For me, I think it is good to not let them in, because you have Jamaicans from all over who want to come home now, so when you let in the persons on the ship, then other people are going to want to get let in as well. I know some other countries are letting in their citizens, but I think it is a good thing, just because of the backlash that he would get from other Jamaicans overseas.”

– Dwight Coley

“From a citizen’s point view, I think it is our Government’s responsibility for each and every citizen, so to say you are not accepting the 43 Jamaicans – not just some people who are seeking asylum but they are Jamaicans – they are a part of the family, so them should let them in.”

– Radclife Palmer

“I think they should have considered and allowed them to be taken on the island and be quarantined. They are Jamaican citizens and we should be looking out for our Jamaican people. A lot of countries are bringing their people home. The Canadian government sent for all Canadians in Jamaica.”

– Don McFarlene

“From the first time I heard it, it kind of worries me in a way, because I thought about it, and I said it’s our people and I think it is hard out there. I think they should have prepared somewhere to quarantine them and get them. It is like the Government leave its children at the mercy of the world. Just let them come and give them a piece of mind.”

– Majorie

“He (Prime Minister Holness) was right when he did now allow them in. We have to protect the persons that we have here now. It is a tough decision, obviously, but I think he is looking at what is in the best interest of all. I believe if he was prepared to quarantine them, he would have, but it was something that sprung up on us, so maybe he did not have the space at that moment. I think he took the best course of action.”

– Daidrey Miller

“I agree with the closing of the borders, both by air and sea, as it limits the chances of the spread. I am sorry to the workers, as I understand they would love to come home, but we will welcome them at a later and safer time.”

– Kerese Miller

“I have no problem with the Government keeping the cruise ship workers out. It is the best way right now, because if they exempt them, everybody else overseas who wanted to come home is going to feel a way. Plus, we’re not even equipped to deal with the cases on our hand right now, much less more. I think they are safer where they are.”

– Vianca Brown