KINGSTON, Jamaica — Member of Parliament for St Thomas Eastern, Rose Marie Shaw is calling for the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) to urgently investigate the reported construction of fish ponds adjacent to the Barking Lodge Primary and Infant School following widespread complaints from residents of the community.

“The people of Barking Lodge deserve answers, and they deserve to know that developments affecting their community are being carried out lawfully, transparently and with proper regard for their health, safety and quality of life,” said Shaw in a press release on Wednesday.

Shaw said she formally wrote to NEPA requesting an immediate investigation into the development after receiving numerous reports from concerned constituents regarding the construction of an aquaculture facility in close proximity to the school, as well as allegations that public access to the adjoining beach has been obstructed and sections of the public roadway excavated.