Radio Jamaica : Allegations of political discrimination in Clarendon shelter

Allegations of political discrimination in Clarendon shelter

August 19, 2007

Despite calls from the two political leaders for a non-partisan approach to relief efforts this was not the case at the Mitchell Town Emergency Centre in southern Clarendon.

It is reported that four persons said to be supporters of the People's National Party (PNP) entered the centre shortly after midday with food supplies.

However, they said only persons aligned to the PNP would receive the items.

The incident was confirmed by the Shelter Manager Eulalee Thompson:

"Mr. Barnswell came down here with a group of people, they took out some water and some food stuffs and they turned to the people in the shelter and said that if they are not aligned to the PNP they are not going to get the stuff. I did not say anything I did not want any confrontation so I did not say anything," said Ms. Thompson.