The Ministry of Education is deeply saddened by the tragic death of young Perry Louis, a fifteen year old T. A. Thompson student, and harbours an equal sense of sadness for the suspects involved in this senseless act.

The Ministry grieves with the T. A. Thompson and C. C. Sweeting School communities, who must now negotiate the shock and trauma that this unfortunate incident has visited upon their young lives.

It is regrettable and disheartening that some of our young people are so enmeshed in circumstances in their lives where recourse to violence and disrespect for human life seem to be their default response.

The Ministry is satisfied that every effort is being made by our dedicated administrators, teachers, and other stakeholders to invite our young people to a deep understanding of their innate dignitary value and encourages them to live within respectful considerations of all people, even in situations where disputes may arise.

The Ministry further encourages our parents to inculcate in their children, by their own example, a respect for themselves and their fellowmen.

While the school campuses may be the arena where the social challenges of our young people are manifested, it is critical that we understand that our children are first the products of their homes and community environments, and it is those vitally important stakeholders who must join the school community in bringing a greater sense of honour and self-worth to our young people.