JAMAICA | PNP Again Calls for Sports Minister to Address the poor Lighting at National Stadium

KINGSTON, Jamaica. May 29, 2024: Opposition Spokesman on Labour and Sports, Shadow Minister Wavell Hinds, has reiterated his concerns regarding the inadequate lighting at the National Stadium which he echoed during the recent ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships.

Hinds had previously voiced his frustration on March 20 via his official X account, highlighting that only 14 of the 144 bulbs on the light tower by the finish line were functioning, casting much of the stadium into darkness.

Despite Sports Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange's assertion that the lighting was adequate, Hinds has renewed his call for immediate action, particularly with the impending World Cup Qualifier on June 6, where Jamaica will host the Dominican Republic.

The Opposition shadow minister is urging Independence Park Limited (IPL) and the Minister of Sports to urgently install additional lighting to meet CONCACAF’s standards.

Should they fail to complete the necessary upgrades, the match will be rescheduled from its original 6:30 p.m. start to an early afternoon kickoff, which could inconvenience supporters from Western Jamaica and others who planned to watch the match in the evening.

“This situation is regrettable and will undoubtedly inconvenience supporters from Western Jamaica and others who planned to watch the match at the scheduled 6:30 p.m. start time.

Adjusting the game to an earlier time due to inadequate lighting would be unfair to these fans and disrupt their plans. Additionally, playing the game at night will attract more brand value, enhance the spectacle, and allow more people to attend, including the fans in the Bleachers who would be sitting without cover from the elements,” said Hinds.

Hinds further emphasized his expertise on the matter, stating, “In my professional experience playing sports for over 15 years, I am confident that the current lights are not up to standard.

The lighting levels inside the stadium are simply unacceptable for an international event of this magnitude. The need for proper lighting is critical, not just for the players' performance but also for the spectators' experience.”

As the June 6 match approaches, all eyes will be on whether the necessary improvements will be made to ensure that Jamaica can host the Dominican Republic under adequate lighting conditions.

The spotlight remains on Minister Grange to ensure that the National Stadium meets international standards and provides a suitable environment for both athletes and fans.

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