PNP Raises Concerns at the Destruction of the Mangroves at Fort Rocky
Kingston, Jamaica. March 7, 2025: Opposition Spokesperson on Environment and Ecological Heritage, Senator Sophia Frazer Binns, has raised concerns about the unregulated development and destruction of mangroves at Fort Rocky. This is compounded by the fact that no permission was granted by the relevant authorities.
This latest destruction is particularly disturbing as it was carried out by agents of a Ministry of Government and the Jamaica National Heritage Trust.
“The destruction of mangroves and haphazard development in such a historically and environmentally sensitive area is unacceptable,” Senator Frazer Binns stated. “This kind of action on the part of a Ministry of government demonstrates either ignorance of or indifference to our planning and environmental laws, neither of which is acceptable as such actions put our environment and ecological heritage at risk.”
Mangroves play a critical role in protecting Jamaica’s coastline, reducing erosion, and supporting marine biodiversity. Their removal weakens the country’s resilience to climate change and threatens fragile ecosystems. Without proper planning and consultation, development can cause irreversible harm, undermining both environmental sustainability and long-term economic benefits.
Senator Frazer Binns is calling for greater synergy among government ministries and agencies. She continues that
“We need a structured framework where agencies work together to achieve sustainable development and protect our heritage. There must also be stronger public education so that everyone, including legislators and all citizens, understands the importance of protecting the environment.”
She emphasised that the Opposition PNP supports development in all sectors but it must be done responsibly with due consideration to our environment and ecological heritage.
Senator Frazer-Binns commends the swift action taken by the NEPA and KSAMC in serving enforcement notices.
