Buchanan saddened over death of missing Portland girl, offers support to family

Eastern Portland Member of Parliament Isat Buchanan has condemned the death of 12-year-old Christal McLean, whose body was found in Grants Level, Rio Grande, Portland, after she was reported missing.

McLean’s body was discovered on Wednesday.

Buchanan, in a statement today, said he was "deeply saddened and outraged" by the circumstances surrounding the child's death.

"There are moments in public life when words are woefully inadequate. This is one of them," he said in a statement today.

Buchanan, who is also the Opposition spokesperson on youth and human rights, described the incident as a horrific act of violence against a child and stressed that children deserve safety, protection, and the opportunity to grow up free from fear and harm.

"Today, a family mourns. A community mourns. Portland mourns," he said, while extending condolences to Christal's family, classmates, and loved ones.

The MP also offered support to the grieving family, saying he stands ready to assist with funeral arrangements during this difficult period.

At the same time, Buchanan called for the police to move swiftly with their investigation.

"Every available resource must be brought to bear to uncover the facts, identify those responsible, and ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly," he said.

He urged Jamaicans to reflect on their collective responsibility to protect children, noting that parents, educators, community leaders, churches, law enforcement, and elected officials all have a role to play.

"The people of Portland deserve answers. More importantly, Christal deserves justice," Buchanan said.

He added that the tragedy should strengthen efforts to build communities where children are protected, violence is rejected, and every child is allowed to thrive and live without fear.

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