Gov’t. Committed to Development of Sports – Grange

Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sports, Olivia Grange, has reiterated the Government’s commitment to the development of sports and called on the overseas community to support the effort.
Speaking at the 27th annual benefit gala and auction of the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) held recently in New York City, Minister Grange, who was a guest of honour, said that the development of a comprehensive sports programme was critical to the advancement of Brand Jamaica as well as the development of the society.
“Let me re-affirm our commitment to the development of sports in Jamaica and among Jamaicans. Sports have the potential to unite communities and nations,” Minister Grange stated, noting that the outstanding performance of the country’s athletes at the recent summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China, has served to boost the efforts of a number of Jamaicans.
She informed that the Ministry was engaged in the creation of a National Sports Policy “that will ensure that the right issues, concerns, strategies and programmes are developed to enhance the final product.”
She praised the membership of the AFJ for its legacy of philanthropy over these past 25 years and congratulated Lennox Lewis, the former world heavyweight boxing champion, who was presented with the AFJ’s 2008 International Achievement Award for being “a true champion in and out of the (boxing) ring.” The presentation was made by Sue Cobb, President of AFJ and former United States Ambassador to Jamaica.
In accepting the award, Lewis said “it is okay to dream” and pledged to continue to serve as a role model for the youth.
The event benefits education, healthcare and economic development initiatives in Jamaica.