Dept. of Local Govt. Commits $3 Million to Restore Garvey’s Birthplace

The Department of Local Government has committed $3 million towards the restoration of the birthplace of National Hero, The Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey, in St. Ann.
Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government, Hon. Robert Montague, made the announcement on August 21 at the installation banquet for the Rotary Club of Ocho Rios, held at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort.
“The Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) has estimated that it will cost $3 million to restore the birthplace of Marcus Garvey, and the Department of Local Government is placing publicly on record that we will put up that money,” the State Minister said.
Extending an invitation for groups and organisations to partner with the Department of Local Government in its efforts, he urged citizens of St. Ann to play their part and work with the Department, so that plans for the parish could be accomplished.
“There is an issue of ownership of the premises (Garvey’s birthplace) and we would like that issue to be resolved. If the people of St. Ann can resolve that issue, the Department of Local Government will put up that money to make that birthplace into a thing of beauty, a mark of respect that the world is waiting on Jamaica to do,” Mr. Montague said.
He commended the Rotary Club of Ocho Rios and the wider Rotary organisation for the work they have been doing in the parish of St. Ann and Jamaica at large, to enhance the lives and livelihood of the citizens.
“You must be lauded for remaining vibrant, relevant and committed to the spirit of voluntarism and selfless service over these 42 years. As a service club organisation, you have been worthy flag bearers of the Rotary banner, and its core message, namely, service above self,” the State Minister said.
Holding steadfast to the belief that strong partnerships can produce amazing results, he encouraged the Rotary Club of Ocho Rios to work collaboratively with the Department of Local Government in selfless service to build a better Jamaica.
“We have accomplished much working independently, but how much more powerful our impact will be when we partner together to change Jamaica, one child, one man or woman and one community at a time,” he said.
He congratulated the Rotary Club of Ocho Rios on its many achievements and wished them God’s blessings in their future projects.