Fri | Mar 29, 2024

MOFA and citizens’ rights

Published:Thursday | June 27, 2019 | 12:36 AM

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I am happy that the Minister of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Kamina Johnson Smith, has been persuaded to ‘thoroughly review’ the case of the five Jamaican fishermen vs the US Coast Guard. To quote the minister in the instant case, reported in yesterday’s Gleaner, “... we want to ensure ... the protection of the rights of our citizens”.

This case has led me to reflect on the December 2009 American Airlines (AA) flight 331, which crashed at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. I am wondering whether American Airlines ever compensated the over 100 Jamaican nationals involved before or after they (AA) went into Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Did the MOFA ever look into this matter on behalf of their citizens who, no doubt, continue to suffer the long-term effects of this very unfortunate event? Is it just too late for these affected persons against the size and might of AA?

On behalf of all citizens, thanks minister. Better late than never.

Citizen X