Police urge public cooperation for Labour Day activities

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is seeking public cooperation in its efforts to maintain peace and security on Labour Day (May 4).

A communiqué circulated yesterday (Apr. 30) states that the High Command is “anticipating a peaceful day of activities on Labour Day and is urging public cooperation with the security forces”.

It further enlightens that Deputy Commissioner Stafford Liburd and Assistant Commissioner Joseph Liburd were among the senior officers who briefed a cross-section of the force on their roles and responsibilities during the day, particularly on functions such as traffic management and crowd control. 

Police will be present during activities at the Patsy Allers Playfield, PAM Headquarters and throughout the traditional Labour Day March.
In addition to outlining the force’s preparations for the big day, the release also highlights some practices persons could undertake to maximise their security.

It informs, “As is a customary safety and security practice, vendors at both functions are asked to sell bottled drinks in plastic cups only and to keep all glass bottles secure. Motorists are asked to comply with the directions of officers on duty during the march as well as the traffic signs posted at the various venues. Motorists are also asked to observe the speed limit on the roads and ensure that seatbelts are used.”

In St. Kitts and Nevis, Labour Day is typically held on the first Monday in May although the majority of countries worldwide celebrate it on May 1. The annual holiday aims to celebrate and recognise the economic and social achievements of a country’s workers.

In the annual morning activity, Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Denzil Douglas and his Parliamentary colleagues, along with leading officers of the St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNTLU) will lay wreaths on the graves of late SKNTLU stalwarts, including National Heroes Their Right Excellencies Sir Robert L. Bradshaw, Sir C.A. Paul Southwell and Sir Joseph N. France. Wreaths will also be laid on the graves of Sir Lee Llewellyn Moore, Clarence Fitzroy Bryant, E. St. John Payne and Fidel O’Flaherty.

The day will culminate in workers marching from the Patsy Allers Playfield through the streets of Basseterre before returning to the Playfield for a picnic.