Commissioner of Police in Anguilla, Mr. Keithly Benjamin, has clarified a rumour that persons are required to obtain a permit to serenade for Christmas.

“This is false and misleading,” Commissioner Benjamin stated in a press release. “No one is required to obtain a permit to serenade consistent with the traditional form of serenading. The customary showing up in one’s yard and singing Christmas carols is not restricted by criminal law.”
Mr. Benjamin however pointed out:

Commissioner Benjamin

“Anyone using amplified sounds to serenade is required to obtain a permit to use amplified sounds. It has been brought to my attention that the requirement of a permit would have dampened the Christmas spirit over the years. That is regrettable but it may not have been the only reason for dampening the Christmas spirit. Our country has changed… and it has become difficult to distinguish between legitimate serenaders and serenaders with an oblique motive.

“Although the traditional form of serenading is encouraged, householders are reminded that they ought to be conscious and observant about who the serenaders are. I emphasise that in the absence of amplified sounds, no permit is required to serenade.”

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