Prime Minister and other officials pay tribute to Barbara Gayle

Several government officials are paying tribute to the veteran court reporter Barbara Gayle, one of such being Prime Minster Andrew Holness who said that her career was "defined by truth, justice, and transparency".

In a statement released to the media on Tuesday following news of her tragic death at home in St Catherine, Holness said "this act of violence is deeply disturbing and tragic".

"I have asked the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served swiftly in this matter," he stated.

Holness also extended condolences to Gayle's immediate family, her friends, and her colleagues at The Gleaner.

"Barbara was a stalwart of Jamaican journalism. She dedicated over four decades of her life to journalism and became one of the nation's most respected and accomplished court reporters," he said.

He noted that she covered cases spanning the Privy Council in the United Kingdom, the Jamaican Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, parish courts, and circuit courts.

"Her meticulous reporting brought attention to many historic rulings and ultimately ensured greater transparency and public awareness of Jamaica's justice system.

"Even in retirement, her passion for the profession continued, with her regular contributions to The Gleaner. Her dedication and contributions to journalism have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Jamaica's media landscape," Holness said.

Meanwhile tributes have also been flowing in from various officials and organisations:

Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Dana Morris Dixon:

"The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information strongly condemns the brutal and senseless murder of Miss Barbara Gayle, a journalist who gave so much to the profession and to our country. This act of violence against a well-respected member of the media community is deeply disturbing and tragic. On behalf of the Ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to Barbara's immediate family, her friends, and her colleagues at the Jamaica Gleaner. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew her and were touched by her work. This tragedy underscores the need for greater efforts to protect all individuals from such heinous acts of violence. We call for justice to prevail, and for the perpetrators to be swiftly brought to account."

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck:

I am deeply disappointed and saddened to learn of the death of Gleaner's Crime and Court Reporter, Barbara Gayle.

I have known Barbara for more than 40 years. She reported on many of the trial cases I did from the mid 80's into the 90's.

In recent decades, she brought many problems, concerns, and weaknesses in the court system to my attention and urged their correction.

Barbara was renowned for her impactful court reporting and dedication to the Jamaican media. She has passed away, leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity in journalism and Court reporting.

Government Senator Abka Fitz-Henley:

"Barbara Gayle was a professional who had a stellar career. She was a mentor, a friend and a good woman. She had absolutely no pretences about her. In a world of much deceit, Barbara was able to maintain her integrity, she was a pure soul, who always meant well.

"When I began my career in media at about 20 years old, Barbara taught me how to do court reporting and would often check-in. I spoke to her a few weeks ago, she rang to say she is proud of me and that's something she'd do from time to time, check in to say keep going." 

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar