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exercises were also disproportionate to what the circumstances
required.
8.131
We recognise the need for firmness but wanton destruction
and damage were quite unnecessary.
Response of the Government – Benefits and Compensation
8.132.
The present Permanent Secretary MoLSS, Mrs. Colette Roberts-
Risden, was Director of Social Security in May 2010. She was intimately involved
in the establishment of a system and the mechanics to respond to the claims and
complaints of residents.
8.133.
When Mrs. Roberts-Risden gave oral evidence on 3 July 2015, she
said that, immediately after 24 May, the Prime Minister convened a meeting at
his office. The then Permanent Secretary, Mr. Alvin McIntosh, officials of the
MoLSS and personnel from the Social Development Commission were in
attendance.
8.134.
The Prime Minister gave instructions that the MoLSS should carry
out an assessment of the damage suffered by persons in West Kingston as a
result of the internal security operation of 24 May.
8.135.
On 31 May 2010, Mr. McIntosh, brought together in a meeting,
officials from the Social Development Commission (SDC), the Poor Relief
Department and the MoLSS. Arising from this meeting, an inter-agency team led
by Mrs. Roberts-Risden was established to develop an appropriate methodology
and procedure for undertaking the assessment. It was decided that such
methodology and procedure would include –
• designing a questionnaire;
• creating teams of social inquiry officers;
properly equipping the officers;