Senior Citizens Saluted for Sterling Service

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., has saluted the nation’s senior citizens for their sterling contribution to nation-building.

He said that members of the older population are “the keepers of our stories and the guardians of our traditions, who guide and lead the path to a great nation”.

The Minister was delivering the main address at the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) regional awards ceremony at The Verandah in Clarendon on Thursday (October 3) under the theme ‘Healthy, Active, Productive Ageing’.

Some 15 seniors from the parishes of St. Elizabeth, Manchester, St. Catherine, Clarendon and St. Andrew were honoured for their outstanding and invaluable contribution to leadership, health and wellness, social services, community development, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and other areas.

Custodes from the parishes were on hand to present trophies and plaques in the categories of Distinguished Senior Citizen, Outstanding Senior Citizen, Excellence in Volunteerism and Corporate Service.

“Today, we reflect on your journey and we recognise the immense value you continue to bring to our society. You have weathered storms and seen this nation through its most pivotal moments and have helped build the Jamaica we know,” said Minister Charles Jr.

“We are here to do more than present some awards; we are here to honour legacies of resilience, hard work and love for this country that have been passed down from generation to generation,” he added.

The Minister noted the countless stories, in every parish, about the senior citizens who volunteer at community centres, teach young people to read and write, and pass down skills in craftsmanship and other areas.

“In most instances, the apprentices are not able to or required to pay for the training. It is provided by people giving of themselves, who see the need in their communities and have stepped forward. They quietly give their time, energy, and wisdom to ensure that the next generation is better equipped to face the future,” he pointed out.

Executive Director of the NCSC, Cassandra Morrison, said that every year, during Senior Citizens Month, the nation pauses to recognise, honour, applaud and show respect to people who are 60 years and older.

“We have seen your work; your communities, peers, family and friends have seen your work and each act has contributed positively to nation-building. Today, I am happy to join your family, friends, peers and community in saying thanks to you and present you as role models for healthy, active and productive ageing in Jamaica,” Mrs. Morrison said.

Senior Citizens Month was celebrated from September 1 to October 3.