A ST THOMAS mother was seriously injured when she was run over by a tractor at the Mangrove Landfill, St Thomas, just after 3 p.m. yesterday.
The DAILY NATION understands that Judy Archer of Arthur Seat and a daughter had entered the landfill by illegal means to remove refuse for their own profit and she was injured by a vehicle, which was reversing at the time.
Reports indicate that the mother of seven suffered a broken leg and an injured pelvis and was being treated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital last night.
It is also understood that the National Conservation Commission employee was among several “pickers” repeatedly warned and chased away by security at the landfill for the dangerous practice.
Carl Padmore, public relations officer for the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA), which is responsible for the landfill, said the incident had left staff traumatised and that there was a brief stoppage of activity while emergency personnel carried out their duties. Padmore said the driver, who has
been employed by the SSA for about 12 years, was severely shaken.
“This is a very trying time. There was a very sombre mood at the landfill, so we will get counselling for our driver. We’re also offering the support necessary for Judy at this time. Both myself and management have been in constant contact with the family and at this stage we are just hoping for the best for Judy and, of course, for the emotional well-being of our tractor driver,” Padmore said.
In view of yesterday’s accident, Padmore reminded the public that only authorised personnel were allowed on the landfill. (YB)
