MAYOR of Kingston Andrew Swaby — who last week decried the practice of people using open spaces inside and around St William Grant Park in downtown Kingston as a toilet — has now raised concern about similar occurrences around Nelson Mandela Park in Half-Way-Tree, St Andrew.

Addressing the monthly meeting of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) on Tuesday, Swaby said while he was pleased to announce the success of a clean-up initiative within Nelson Mandela Park it was unfortunate that they also had to remove human faeces from areas around the park despite there being adequate restroom facilities.

“With all that we have put in place, we are still faced with the challenge of some users urinating and defecating outside in the open. This is nasty and unsanitary. The situation is unacceptable, especially given the park’s importance and the legacy of the individual it is named after, Nelson Mandela. This park must reflect the dignity and values of the global icon it honours.

“We appeal to everyone, vendors, park users and the wider community, to respect and care for this space. Let us take collective responsibility to maintain a clean, hygienic and respectful environment, ensuring the park remains a source of pride for Kingston and St Andrew,” Swaby urged.

Last Thursday Swaby bemoaned the rat infestation inside and around the park and announced initiatives aimed at tackling improper garbage disposal that attracts the unwanted rodents.

During Tuesday’s meeting the mayor reiterated his call for members of the public to do their part in keeping the parks clean and emphasised the importance of personal responsibility particularly in respect to waste disposal and the use of public facilities.

“These small but significant actions are crucial to sustaining the cleanliness and order we aim to achieve in our public,” added Swaby as he declared the KSAMC’s commitment to create a more vibrant, safe and inclusive environment for all.

— Jason Cross