Hosts of carnival watch parties must apply for amusement licences by tomorrow - KSAMC

The local government authority for Kingston and St Andrew has warned promoters of watch parties and other events planned for the upcoming Carnival celebrations that they must apply for their amusement licence by April 11.

The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) says these promoters must also ensure that they provide the requisite supporting documents.

The supporting documents include proof of insurance, a certificate from the fire brigade, site layouts and a no-objection letter from the Kingston and St Andrew Health Department if food will be served.

Further, Mayor of Kingston and chairman of the KSAMC Andrew Swaby says “proper arrangements” for waste disposal must be in place or promoters “run the risk of their permits not being approved”.

Despite this, Swaby said the KSAMC remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a successful and well-organised Carnival.

The Mayor, who was speaking on Tuesday at the monthly meeting of the local authority, said the KSAMC, through its Carnival secretariat, has so far held two meetings with Carnival Jamaica.

He said discussions focussed on the necessary approvals for road marches and j’ouvert events.

“It was agreed that the j’ouvert promoters must engage water trucks to wash away paint as the parade progresses,” he said.

The KSAMC has already received applications for permits from Xodus, Yard Mas and GenXS bands, Swaby disclosed.

He said these applications are currently being reviewed by the city engineer, the KSAMC’s disaster management unit and revenue unit to ensure compliance.

- Livern Barrett

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