Barbara Gayle: A journalist who shaped Jamaica’s legal reporting

Andrew Holness, Prime Minister

Barbara was a stalwart of Jamaican journalism. She dedicated over four decades of her life to journalism and became one of the nation's most respected and accomplished court reporters. Her meticulous reporting brought attention to many historic rulings and ultimately ensured greater transparency and public awareness of Jamaica's justice system. Even in retirement, her passion for the profession continued, with her regular contributions to The Gleaner. Her dedication and contributions to journalism have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Jamaica's media landscape.

Dr Dana Morris Dixon, minister with responsibility for information

"This act of violence against a well-respected member of the media community is deeply disturbing and tragic. On behalf of the ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to Barbara's immediate family, her friends, and her colleagues at the Jamaica Gleaner. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew her and were touched by her work. This tragedy underscores the need for greater efforts to protect all individuals from such heinous acts of violence. We call for justice to prevail, and for the perpetrators to be swiftly brought to account."

Nekeisha Burchell, Opposition spokesperson on information

Barbara Gayle's passing represents not just a loss to her family and loved ones, but also to Jamaica's media fraternity and the nation as a whole. Her decades-long career as The Gleaner's leading court reporter set an unmatched standard for professionalism, integrity, and courage. Her work brought light to some of the most critical legal matters in our history, and she earned the respect of the courts, legal minds, and the public she served with diligence.

Dashan Hendricks, president, Press Association of Jamaica

As the nation's pre-eminent court reporter for The Gleaner, Barbara's unparalleled dedication to the court beat set a standard for beat reporting, earning her the trust and respect of judges, attorneys, prosecutors, and court staff. Throughout her illustrious career, Barbara demonstrated a commitment to justice and transparency, meticulously reporting on criminal trials, civil suits, appeals, and landmark decisions. Her integrity and professionalism earned her numerous awards, including the Press Association of Jamaica Community Service Award and the Journalist of the Year award.

Delroy Chuck, Minister of Justice

I have known Barbara for more than 40 years. She reported on many of the trial cases I did from the mid-80s into the 90s. In recent decades, she brought many problems, concerns, and weaknesses in the court system to my attention and urged their correction. Barbara was renowned for her impactful court reporting and dedication to the Jamaican media. She has passed away, leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity in journalism and court reporting.

Olivia 'Babsy' Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport

This is tragic and another of the senseless killings bedevilling our society. I hope those responsible for this heinous deed will be swiftly caught and brought to justice.