KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness is reiterating calls on Jamaicans to be careful on the roads and for children to exercise good judgment in their choice of transport to and from school.

Holness’ comment comes in light of the tragic incident involving students from Garvey Maceo high school in Clarendon resulting in serious injuries to at least 28 people including 23 students.

 “We have been running a campaign on social media and wherever I get the chance I am spreading the message about road safety. All Jamaicans must make road safety their priority as a lot of the incidents are not because of road conditions or the weather, but careless road use and a disregard for the rules of the road or respect for fellow road users,” Holness said  in a release today.

He added that, “while moral suasion is important, the government also recognises that enhanced laws have to be in place to deal with those who consistently put Jamaicans, especially our children at risk”.

Holness also said that Amendments to the Road Traffic Act are coming and will be accompanied by a national road safety campaign that involves partners such as the police, corporate Jamaica and international interests.

“We cannot continue to hear of these incidents, which not only impacts families, but are a charge on the public purse,” Holness lamented.

He also extended well wishes to the Garvey Maceo family with prayers for a speedy recovery of those injured.