ST. JOHN’S, N.L. - A seal shot dead at Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s has prompted police investigations amid rising community concern over wildlife protection. According to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, reports surfaced Monday evening detailing the incident at the marina located about ten kilometers northwest of St. John’s.
Such acts of animal cruelty have stirred public outrage, especially as this is not the first incident involving violence against wildlife. The authorities are now working to gather evidence related to this case.
Meanwhile, the community is abuzz with another pressing issue as citizens gathered outside Her Majesty’s Penitentiary, Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest jail, demanding justice and adequate care for inmates struggling with addictions and mental health issues. The protest took place on Wednesday, with around two dozen attendees chanting for change.
The focal point of the rally was 32-year-old inmate Mitchell Murphy, whose mother, Beverley Murphy, took center stage advocating for her son’s well-being. "My primary concern is to save my son," she stated emotionally, emphasizing her desperation for him to receive hospitalization rather than being confined within the prison system.
Murphy claims she has not been able to obtain clear information on her son's condition since his incarceration last September. He faces charges including theft and probation violations, driven largely by his mental health struggles, including psychosis. Beverley described the distressing transformation she observed during video court appearances, where he appeared unrecognizable and severely weight-reduced.
At the heart of the protest was the demand for systemic changes to how the criminal justice system deals with mental illness. Protesters called on the authorities to assess individuals for mental health issues prior to incarceration, ensuring they get the appropriate care they need rather than being punished for their health conditions. Tina Olivero, another advocate, echoed these sentiments and shared her personal loss due to similar circumstances, resulting from her son’s battle with addiction. "People with mental health problems and addictions need to be properly diagnosed and properly medicated," Olivero expressed, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
Beverley Murphy shared her perspective on the overwhelming support from the community. "I shouldn’t have to do this, but this is the only way I can help him," she said, grateful but frustrated by the circumstances.
The urgency of the protest reflects the historical negligence of the penitentiary’s condition, noted for its rats and staff shortages. Newfoundlanders have been advocating for the replacement of the aging structure with improved facilities providing proper medical care. Following prolonged promises from the provincial government, the construction contract for the new facility was awarded last November, but many families question how long it will take until this promise is fulfilled.
While police investigate the seal shooting, the protests at the penitentiary remain emblematic of the broader societal struggle with mental health care within correctional settings. Advocates like Beverley and Tina continue to underline the daily failure of the criminal justice system to adequately respond to the needs of individuals with mental health challenges.
For now, Newfoundland and Labrador face the pressing call to act responsibly for both its wildlife and vulnerable populations within its prisons. The intertwined narratives of protecting animals and advocating for humane treatment of inmates highlight the community’s deep commitment to justice and compassion.