Committee questions role of cops in entertainment permits

Members of the Joint Select Committee reviewing the Green Paper on the National Policy for Culture, Entertainment and the Creative Economy 2025–2035 are calling into question the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) role in deciding whether entertainment events can proceed, amid concerns about inconsistent decisions and limited explanations for rejected applications.

The issue arose on Wednesday as the committee examined the JCF’s recommendations for regulating entertainment zones and managing events, with members raising concerns about how permits are granted, why some are refused and whether organisers have a fair opportunity to challenge decisions.

The discussion also prompted Culture Minister Olivia Grange to reveal that a permit for an anniversary event honouring a well-known Jamaican football personality had been withdrawn about an hour before it was due to begin, despite preparations already being in place.