My Fellow Jamaicans, we celebrate the 58th anniversary of our nation’s Independence in the throes of a pandemic. Together, we have done well in managing the crisis, through the hard work of thousands of frontline workers and the support and cooperation of most Jamaicans. We cannot afford to become complacent now. We are still at risk. Therefore, we must continue...

My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you with love on this the 58th anniversary of our independence. Our celebrations are affected this year by Covid-19 which is causing severe hardships and pain for our people. Our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to those who are ill, we wish you a speedy recovery. On behalf of...

Mr. Speaker, I begin my presentation this year with thanksgiving. We have much for which to give God thanks. The almighty has been faithful to us in good times and in these challenging times. Let us give thanks for the strong, steady, inspirational leadership of our Prime Minister, the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, as he leads our nation in the...

Jamaica, like the rest of the world has, unfortunately, been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and its attendant socio-economic shocks. An unprecedented number of Creatives and Cultural Practitioners, and related enterprises, are now either in decline, or in dire need of assistance for recovery. As a response, my Ministry is spearheading a series of Cultural Grants targeting Jamaica’s cultural...

Our government’s decision to close our air and sea ports to incoming people traffic as of tonight is a necessary measure to help contain the spread of COVID-19. This decision has several implications, including for members of our entertainment community who are overseas. I have been in contact with several of them and some are scheduled to arrive today before...

My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you warmly as we celebrate the 57th Anniversary of our Independence. This is a time when we reflect and give thanks for: Love Liberty Freedom and Nationhood. The theme of our Independence celebrations this year, “One Nation, One People” encapsulates the message that in spite of our differences, we must be united in our mission...

My fellow Jamaicans, As we celebrate our 57th year of independence, we have much to be thankful for: ◙ The lowest unemployment rate in our history at 7.8% and youth unemployment fell by 6 percent. ◙ The annual inflation rate is low and stable at 4.2% and the consumer price index is trending downwards. ◙ Our credit ratings are positive,...

My fellow Jamaicans, As we celebrate the 57th anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence, we salute the patriots who built the national movement and laid the foundations of our nationhood. Independence time also provides us with an opportunity to celebrate our culture and the achievements of our country and our people. We should always treasure the fact that we have remained a...