Kingston, 8 May 2019 -  The Honourable Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport announced today that the lane that was reserved for Shantae Skyers in the 80-metre race at the 2019 Institute of Sports Primary Schools Track and Field Championship will not be filled by any other athlete as mark of respect to the slain Red Hills Primary School pupil.

Miss Grange made the announcement at the National Indoor Sports Centre as she officially launched the 39^th edition of the Meet. 

 “Instead we will place a red rose and a picture of Shantae at the starting block. 

“Shantae Skyers who was slated to face the starters in the Class Three Girls 80-metre dash, was mercilessly abused and slaughtered. It is really sad and doleful that we will never again get the opportunity to see this young dynamo sprint towards the finish line. 

“She was a promising young sprinter. But more than that, she was a child with immense potential.   

“My friends, we have to redouble our efforts to protect our children, and other vulnerable groups in the society – including the disabled and the elderly. 

“Our theme for Labour Day this year - CHILD SAFETY … It’s YOU, It’s ME, it’s ALL A WE, sums up the approach we must all take. Each and every one of us must accept that responsibility.    

The Meet, which is free to the public, starts tomorrow (May 9) at the National Stadium.