Opposition wants findings of dead crocodiles probe made public

Opposition Spokesperson on Environment and Ecological Heritage, Senator Sophia Frazer Binns, says the results of the investigation into the deaths of adult crocodiles at the Greater Portmore Sewage Ponds in St Catherine should be made public.

“It is important that the findings be shared so we can understand exactly what caused this and how it can be prevented in the future,” Frazer Binns said in a media release in which she called for an urgent investigation into the incident.

However, Minister with responsibility for the environment, Matthew Samuda, had already announced that he has commissioned an urgent multi-agency investigation into the matter.

Samuda said the Government was committed to uncovering the cause and implementing immediate corrective measures.

In her statement on Friday, Frazer Binns said “This incident raises serious questions about the management of the area, and I am calling for a thorough investigation, not only to determine what went wrong but to establish whether there was any breakdown in mechanical or other systems and processes.”

She also reminded the public that the American Crocodile is a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, and harming or killing them is a criminal offence.

“I urge residents and stakeholders to report incidents involving crocodiles directly to NEPA [National Environment and Planning Agency] or the relevant authorities. These animals are part of our ecological heritage and must be treated with respect and care.”

Frazer Binns emphasised that "in the face of climate change and rapid development, proper stewardship of Jamaica’s environment and wildlife is not optional; it is essential."

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