The Minister of Culture, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, says she’s optimistic about finding solutions to address the ongoing conflict between the police and promoters of events.

At a meeting last Friday, Minister Grange spoke with the Minister of National Security, Dr. Horace Chang, the police, NEPA, and other stakeholders to consider amendments to the Noise Abatement Act which regulates entertainment events.

According to Minister Grange, the meeting looked at hours that would be approved, days, the extensions, entertainment zones, and other relevant matters.

Minister Chang highlighted that they have been having major challenges with entertainment activities throughout the country; adding that some places are particularly difficult, especially Negril, because of the current law that controls entertainment.

Meanwhile, Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fitz Bailey, is to discuss the proposals with the Commissioner, other members of the High Command as well as divisional commanders.

For years many event promoters, entertainers, and party-goers have lobbied for an amendment to the Noise Abatement Act.

Some promoters and industry players believe the injection of entertainment zones could solve some of the problems. While others think an extra two hours pushing weekdays to 2 am and weekends to 4 am could suffice.

Currently, under the Act, entertainment sessions must end at midnight on weekdays and at 2:00 am on weekends.