ISLINGTON, St Mary — Party promoters within this community are breathing a sigh of relief now that the police have lifted a more-than-month-long ban on their events.

“At least I can mek some money for Christmas,” a round robin promoter who lives in the area and identified herself as Shawna told the Jamaica Observer.

Her comment captured the sentiments of many in Islington. The ban had been in effect for areas including Martin, Esher, Robin’s Bay, and Rosend.

During a community meeting last Friday, commanding officer for the parish, Deputy Superintendent Anthony Wallace, announced the lifting of the ban but made it clear it would be reinstated if needed.

“I understand your frustration at this time, as I know most persons in the community benefit from this. So we are lifting the ban in hoping that everything goes back to normal between you, the residents, and our hard-working police officers,” said Wallace.

The ban was part of a curfew imposed on September 11 after residents staged a protest and allegedly threatened to fire bomb the police station. The protest was a reaction to a police shooting that left Rushane “Spooky” Lovelace dead. Cops said it was a shoot-out but residents have questioned that account.

Last Friday, Wallace gave an assurance that investigations into the shooting would continue.

“We will continue to support the families and community while working closely with Indecom (Independent Commission of Investigations) and to ensure smooth and swift investigation,” he assured.

“We agreed to continue working together and collaborate as we aim to maintain a strong relationship between the citizens and the police,” Wallace added.

— Ingrid Henry