Grange Saddened by Fatal Accident on Football Field

SDF to Investigate & Make Recommendations to Prevent Recurrence

The Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Honourable Olivia Grange, MP has expressed sadness and concern at news that a nine year old child had died after being hit by a falling goal post at Sts Peter and Paul Preparatory School in St. Andrew yesterday.

Reacting to the news, Minister Grange said:

“This is very sad news and my heart goes out to the family.  I want them to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers.

“This is the second such incident to occur since the start of the year and I am very concerned. 

“I have asked the Sports Development Foundation to do an investigation and to recommend new standards for the design, construction and installation of goal posts in Jamaica. The SDF has expertise in sports infrastructure development and will be able to recommend standards that address our safety concerns relating to sports infrastructure and equipment.

“We will share the findings and recommendations with schools, clubs and community centres so that these tragic incidents do not recur."

In an immediate response to the Minister’s request, the Chairman of SDF, Mr. David Mais, said a technical team, involving SDF staff, the Institute of Sports and the Social Development Commission would meet next week to prepare an action plan to address the Minister’s concerns.

Issued By: The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture