Ellis wants to revamp entertainment permits in St James

Western Bureau:

Senior Superintendent of Police Vernon Ellis, the divisional commander for St James, believes there is a compelling need to revamp how entertainment permits are granted to promoters in the parish, especially as it relates to the safety of persons attending these events.

“There are a lot of dynamics that go into what appears to be simple decisions,” explained Ellis said.

“The overall priority is public safety, keeping people alive, keeping them safe.”

Ellis is also not happy about the system now being used to address applications, which he considers both time-consuming and outdated. His preference would be to see the process modernised for greater efficiency in its execution.

“I think we should tidy up the archaic way we get these applications,” said Ellis.

“Get them electronic, and have people respond electronically (so) they could know by the touch of a button, a generic response will tell you not to go ahead with this investment at this time.”

Ellis, who was speaking at the most recent monthly meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation, was responding to suggestions that there needs to be a more equitable manner by which permits are granted to persons seeking permission to stage events.

In explaining the dynamics associated with deciding whether a permit should be granted, Ellis said the safety of the location is of paramount interest to the police as law and order and general safety must be given priority attention.

"There are locations that have good security features, such as indoor CCTV coverage, and security cameras,” said Ellis.

“At these locations, it is less likely that persons gathering there will experience unpleasantries.

“However, the police also have to consider the history of the facility, geographical location, especially its proximity to criminal hotspots.”

The police commander said the general layout of St James is a factor that cannot be overlooked in deciding where permission should be granted for the staging of events, as while the venue might have the required security features, it is in proximity to an area plagued by criminal challenges.

“The unique makeup of the city (Montego Bay), with inner city communities bordering prominent destinations, could also be a determining factor in whether approval is granted,” noted Ellis.

While some major crimes are trending down in St James, creating the belief that the parish is getting safer, Ellis said now is not the time for complacency as the recent seizure of three rifles, three handguns and a cache of ammunition in one police operation is an indication that the current lull should not be taken for granted.

However, Ellis remains convinced that regardless of the calibre of weapons in the hands of criminals, the police are sufficiently equipped to repel any threat to public safety.

“Even if you put a rocket launcher in the hands of a fool, he is still a fool,” said Ellis, in speaking to the fact that, unlike the police, criminals are not trained to handle firearms.

"You can never match the competence of a fool to that of a highly trained security force.”

According to Ellis, the police go through regular drills to prepare them to confront criminals and in addition, they are equipped with suitable vehicles and ballistics equipment.

“That is why, when there is a firefight, we normally outmaneuver these guys,” said Ellis.

"So, rest assured that even if you see weapons of superior calibre you have a skilled force that can deal with it.”

mark.titus@gleanerjm.com