Minister Chang Urges Peaceful Conflict Resolution

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, is calling on Jamaicans to utilise non-violent methods to resolve conflicts.

“The inability to resolve conflicts without violence is at a critical stage. We have seen lives lost, families ripped apart and society suffers as a result,” he said.

“I strongly urge all Jamaicans to not allow anger and rage to get the better of you. Utilise the Domestic Violence Intervention Centres (DVIC) provided for you to de-escalate tension,” he urged.

The Minister made the call as he offered condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Detective Sergeant Victor Francis, who died after he was stabbed while attempting to quell a dispute between two men in his Portmore, St. Catherine community, recently.

Dr. Chang hailed Detective Sergeant Francis for his dedication to duty.

The Minister said that the late policeman’s final act, showed that he was committed to his job as a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

“The entire national security family and indeed, the people of Jamaica, are saddened by the death of Detective Sergeant Francis, who, in carrying out duties to secure the peace, eventually lost his life,” he noted.

Minister Chang said that the policeman’s death is untimely and most unfortunate, and his brave action will not be forgotten.

The Government has established 10 DVICs at police stations islandwide.

The JCF also stages pop-up clinics to sensitise the public about domestic violence issues.

In addition to the DVICs, the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods offered by the Government such as restorative justice and mediation, are valuable tools to enable Jamaicans to settle their disagreements in a peaceful manner.