BUT raises alarm over shootings near schools

A surge in gun violence near schools has prompted urgent concern from the Barbados Union of Teachers, after two recent shootings forced disruptions at pre-primary schools and heightened fears for student safety.

Tuesday morning’s gun attack outside the Eden Lodge Nursery School follows a similar incident weeks earlier near the Sayes Court Nursery in Christ Church, where gunshots forced staff to secure the compound, and parents rushed to collect their children.

The union’s response comes amid mounting concerns among residents and parents following these incidents, with calls for stronger action to protect children and restore a sense of safety in communities. 

BUT President Rudy Lovell said the union is “gravely concerned” about what appears to be a growing pattern.

“Alarmingly, shootings near at least two educational institutions have already forced the premature closure of these schools, disrupting the learning environment and placing both students and staff at unnecessary risk,” he said, stressing that even if schools are not the intended targets, the danger cannot be dismissed.

“Even if those responsible for these acts do not intend to harm members of the school community, the reality is that bullets are indiscriminate. They cannot be controlled once discharged and pose a serious threat to anyone in their path.”

Lovell warned that the safety of students and teachers must not be compromised by what he described as reckless behaviour, noting that schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning.

“The safety and well-being of our children and educators must never be compromised,” Lovell added.

The union is now calling for an end to the violence, urging those involved to consider the wider impact on communities:

“Our schools must remain safe places where teaching and learning can occur without fear or interruption.”

The unionist also called on community leaders and the wider public to speak out, warning against any sense that such incidents are becoming normal.

“Barbados cannot afford to normalise violence, especially when it encroaches on the spaces dedicated to shaping our nation’s future.”

(SM)