The St James Police are warning citizens that a protest planned by a disgruntled, former hotel worker, in Montego Bay for today (July 4), does not have a permit, and as such, is deemed an illegal activity.

Hotel bartender, Matthew Rodney, was dismissed from his job at the S Hotel in Montego Bay, and he posted a video on social media, alleging racism and unfair treatment by hotel management.

Mr Rodney is organizing, what he calls, a peaceful march in the resort town, and has called on other hotel workers to support the cause.

The protest is scheduled to begin at 7 AM.

Acting Head of the St James Police Division, Superintendent Carlos Russell, said he has been made aware of the planned protest.

He noted that any citizen who wishes to stage a demonstration, must apply for a permit and that to date, no one has made an application, regarding today’s event.

He is reminding citizens, that it is an offence to stage a march or protest without first getting the requisite permit from the police.

Meantime, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said the issue involving Mr Rodney and the hotel is a domestic one and should be handled at the local level.

He said the Ministry will not be intervening.