In light of what it says is information it received about a planned march on Gordon House today, the Jamaica Constabulary Force has issued a release advising the public of the rules governing a protest.

Under the Public Order Act (Section 4), the release said, it is unlawful for public marches to take place during the night. It is also unlawful for any public march to take place in daylight unless a permit has been issued by the police.

three days before

The police further advise that any person who desires to organise any public march in daylight should apply for a permit at least three days before such intended public march. Applications for such a permit should be made to the senior officer of the Jamaica Constabulary Force in all parishes except in the Corporate Area. In the Corporate Area, applications should be made to the Commissioner of Police. The granting of permission for marches and processions is the sole prerogative of the police.

If permission is granted by the police for any public march or procession, these activities should not take place within 200 yards of any scheduled premises. Scheduled premises are Jamaica House, Gordon House, King's House, the headquarters of all ministries, the offices of the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation, and the Cabinet Offices.