KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has expressed solidarity and empathy with the referees involved in the ongoing 2024 season of ISSA Schoolboy Football.

The JFF’s statement follows Saturday’s strike action, which resulted in all 30 matches across the daCosta Cup and Manning Cup competitions being called off. Observer Online understands that the referees withdrew their services after several incidents in which members were allegedly attacked.

The referees have since requested a meeting with ISSA to “review the security protocols in place for the competition and to provide support for all members as we plan for the remainder of the competition.”

READ: Football Referees Association demand urgent meeting with ISSA amid security concerns

In its release, the JFF stated that referees should “feel safe when performing their duties and that their decisions on the field should be respected.”

“The referees are an integral part of football development, and they should not feel threatened in any way while performing their duties. The JFF supports the decision for them not to participate in any ISSA Schoolboy Football matches until their safety can be assured,” the statement continued.

“Any further incidents will have more consequential action,” said JFF General Secretary Dennis Chung.

The JFF also commended the Jamaica Football Referees Association for the work they have done.