Despite criticism from some sectors of the society for not supporting the extension of the States of Emergency in seven parishes, the opposition is holding firm in its stance that the SOEs are not needed.

Opposition Spokesman on National Security, Peter Bunting said the SOEs have not effectively addressed the issue of murders and crime across the country.

Mr. Bunting further pointed out that the ruling Jamaica Labour Party, does not need the opposition’s support to continue the security measure.

Mr. Bunting added that there is a lack of adequate personnel to man checkpoints in the St. James, Clarendon and Corporate Area SOEs.