We continue to be very concerned by the situation in Japan, particularly, the north-eastern section of the country, in the aftermath of the natural disasters which caused so many bereavement and devastation. As the death toll increases, so does the anxiety related to the stability of the nuclear reactor core in the Dai-ichi plant. We hope that the people and...

Each year, World Water Day draws attention to the need to manage our water sources and supplies. This year's theme "Clean Water, Healthy World" speaks to the link between safe supplies of clean water, and the physical, and economic health of individuals and nations. At its foundation is the recognition that access to safe drinking water is a vital element...

Each year, Jamaica joins other countries around the world in observing the first Monday in October as World Habitat Day. The theme for this year's observation, which highlights the state of towns and cities, is Planning our Urban Future. It highlights the need for decision makers and their partners to place more emphasis on urban planning in order to meet...

The demolition of six houses in Colouden, Westmoreland yesterday, (Friday, April 17, 2009) is unfortunate. However, I am presently in dialogue with Member of Parliament, Mr. Luther Buchanan to ensure adequate resettlement of the families. This resettlement will include assistance with building materials. Since 2007 hundreds of persons living in informal settlements have been relocated to areas with proper infrastructure....

Mr. President, Members of the Governing Council of the United Nations, Members of the Secretariat, Heads of States, Excellencies, Ministers, Heads of Delegations, friends. I am honoured on behalf of the Government of Jamaica to address this 14th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and 4th Conference of the...

It is very difficult to follow in the footsteps of two outstanding sons of the Region in the persons of the Hon. Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados and Dwight Nelson, himself a giant in the trade union movement and now Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, both whom gave the first two...