Dear Editor,

The recent exposure of false claims regarding public access to Blue Lagoon in Portland should concern every Jamaican who cares about truth, national development, and the country’s international reputation.

For years, irresponsible social media activists and self-appointed advocates have circulated claims that Jamaicans were being denied access to the world-famous attraction. Yet a recently published video — apparently made by someone sympathetic to the arguments raised by beach advocates — clearly showed ordinary Jamaicans freely enjoying the lagoon.

Before that video, the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), which manages the attraction, had told us that access remains free to the public and that no official charges have been imposed.

This episode raises a troubling question: What motivates individuals to spread misinformation about national assets? Whether driven by ignorance, personal or political agendas, the desire for publicity, or attempts to inflame public sentiment, the consequences are the same. False narratives undermine public trust, damage Jamaica’s image, and create unnecessary division among citizens.

Blue Lagoon is not merely a local attraction; it is one of Jamaica’s most recognised tourism treasures. Every misleading claim that suggests Jamaicans are barred from enjoying it has the potential to discourage visitors, tarnish Jamaica’s reputation, and harm the livelihoods of those who depend on tourism. In a country where thousands of families rely directly or indirectly on the tourism industry, such reckless behaviour is deeply irresponsible.

Equally concerning is the damage these actions inflict on the credibility of those who engage in them. Jamaica faces many legitimate challenges that deserve public attention and vigorous advocacy. There are genuine concerns regarding environmental protection, public services, governance, infrastructure, crime, and, in some instances, access to recreational spaces. However, when individuals repeatedly promote claims that are later proven false, they weaken their own standing and make it more difficult for the public to take seriously the valid issues they may raise in the future.

Credibility is an advocate’s most valuable asset. Once it is squandered through exaggeration, distortion, or outright falsehoods, it becomes increasingly difficult to persuade citizens, policymakers, or the media when legitimate concerns arise. Those who genuinely wish to advance the public interest should recognise that truth is not an obstacle to activism; it is its foundation.

Jamaicans have every right to question authority, scrutinise decisions, and demand accountability. However, those rights carry a corresponding responsibility to ensure that allegations are supported by facts. Public discourse is degraded when misinformation is knowingly spread to generate outrage, attract attention, or advance personal and interests.

As a nation, we cannot afford to allow falsehoods to define discussions about our heritage, our tourism product, or our future. Those who care about Jamaica should be the first to defend the truth, not distort it.

David Norman

Kingston 8