Hi Rhod
I listen to your programme, in Barbados, virtually every night and, twice in five years I have emailed you, the first time as regarding inaccuracies in the reporting, by your correspondent in Jamaica. The first was regarding the tragic fire, in which five Barbadians died and, this is the second...
The case of Shanique Myrie is not complex, in essence, three Jamaicans were removed from Barbados, for sending 1400 CDs for a concert ahead of them. On questioning there were import irregularities and problems, when questioned seperately, regarding the address they were supposed to be staying at and, even the person that was due to collect them from the airport. This case was reported in the Jamaica Observer and, the next day, the same paper carried the story of Shanique Myrie, who alleges she was rectally and vaginally cavity searched, by a single immigration officer, at the Grantley Adams International Airport.
Firstly, immigration officers are not allowed to cavity search
Secondly, only customs officers can facilitate a body search, which must be carried out at the Queen Elizbeth Hospital in Bridgetown, under medical supervision
Thirdly, no complaint was made for 3 days in Jamaica and, the allegation first appeared in the newspaper
In my experience, most airports in the US handle Jamaican flights differently and, more persons are deported from the US to Jamaica than to any other country in the region, this does highlight a problem, however, the correct channels for a complaint would be through the Jamaican High Commission, in Trinidad, which handles regional issues outside Jamaica, yet this young lady chose the press to air her complaint.
Subsequently this has gone to ministerial level and, yes, some comments have been made by regional head of state, however, Barbados continues to be the country of choice for significant levels of economic migrants from the region with over 7000 overstays a year and the Immigration and Customs departments have undegone significant Public Sector Reform and is visibly fairer and more professional than ever and, the Grantley Adams International Airport figures high in the satisfaction ratings with passenger organisations and independent travellers alike.
As a "non-national" living in Barbados (English), I can say that this is very unlikely to be a true story, especially as Shanique is unwilling to return to Barbados, in order to pursue her claim or attempt to identify her "abuser". I know there are two sides to a story, however, the vitriole that has been directed at Barbados from Jamaica has continued despite the entire lack of any proof at all.
Ralph York
Hi Ralph, Thank yo so much, and I hope you caught my attempt to balance things up. Indeed I was unaware of the Barbados customs side of the story. I hope I could put a few people straight, thanks to you. Well worth the cautionary note and we are grateful. I love Barbados and we stayed several times at the sweet little hotel next to The Cliff. I fear it's condos now.
With best wishes,
Rhod
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