Portsmouth Mayor Kerry Breedy-Prince has issued a firm condemnation of gun violence while assuring residents and visitors of enhanced security measures for the upcoming ‘Possie Town Mas’ carnival celebrations. The mayor’s statement comes in direct response to escalating community concerns following a recent shooting incident in the Lagoon area last week.
Addressing public anxieties head-on, Mayor Breedy-Prince acknowledged the legitimate fears surrounding the spike in firearm-related incidents but emphasized that criminal behavior would not be allowed to define the community’s identity. “Violence has no place in our community, and it would never define who we are as a people,” she declared, reinforcing Portsmouth’s historical reputation as a town built on cultural pride, unity, and peaceful coexistence.
The municipal government has implemented a comprehensive security strategy through coordinated efforts with multiple stakeholders. This collaborative approach involves the Dominica Police Force, community leadership representatives, and event organizing committees working in unison to bolster safety protocols. These measures are specifically designed to create a protected environment where participants can engage in carnival activities without apprehension.
Mayor Breedy-Prince passionately described the essence of Possie Town Mas as a celebration of life, musical tradition, and communal solidarity. She explicitly rejected the notion that fear should suppress cultural expression or erase longstanding traditions. The festivities are scheduled to commence at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 17, with officials encouraging full public participation in what promises to be a vibrantly secure cultural experience.