Salutations
Ladies and gentlemen, this is a difficult time for all of us as a nation.
The passing of one of our great sons, the Most Honourable Edward Seaga — who has served us so well — is a time of sadness. It is a moment for reflection which calls us as a national family to come together in celebration of a life that was devoted to outstanding service, for building Jamaica and enriching its people.
Edward Phillip George Seaga was elected Prime Minister of Jamaica on October 30, 1980 — he became the fifth person to hold that position.
He has also held the posts of:
– Minister of Finance and Planning (1967-1972)
– Minister of Development and Welfare (1962-1967)
During his service to our country, he was responsible for developing a comprehensive range of financial institutions to make Jamaica’s Capital Market network a model for developing countries.
These include the:
– Jamaica Stock Exchange
– Introduction of merchant banking
– Jamaica Development Bank Jamaica Mortgage Bank
– Jamaica Unit Trust
Rural and urban planning and the environment have also been prime areas of focus for Mr Seaga. He spearheaded waterfront development in the main coastal towns and cities, rural and urban township development programmes, and the development of parks and markets.