Gov’t Focused on Economic Independence

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says the Government is focused on economic independence and empowering citizens to become self-reliant.

“We want you to… stand on your own two feet, earn your own income, push your own key, make your own decisions,” he said.

“We don’t believe in dependency. We don’t want anything from anybody. We go and do it on our own, with our own resources,” he added.

Dr. Holness, who was addressing the hand over of yet another house under the Government’s New Social Housing Programme (NSHP) in Cave Valley, St. Ann on February 14, expressed pride in the progress made by the Government in fostering a spirit of initiative and resilience, while providing support for those who may struggle in the face of economic challenges.

“When we do it, we take care of our own,” he said.

He noted that the dual focus on economic independence and social responsibility is central to the Government’s vision for Jamaica’s future.

“Nobody is coming to save us. Nobody is giving us any favours; it’s a new world,” he pointed out.

Dr. Holness said that as Jamaica navigates the complexities of a changing global landscape, the Government remains dedicated to building a strong and resilient economy capable of weathering shocks.

“That is the policy and direction of the Government. We must be able to stand up and take the blows, absorb them, get back on our feet and grow,” he said, contending that the commitment to resilience and self-sufficiency will inspire confidence among citizens and investors.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister said that despite the challenges of severe weather last year, which destroyed agriculture, damaged roads and disrupted electricity, contributing to a decline in economic growth for the last two quarters, the country was not in a recession.

“If the economy declines significantly then you would expect to see a rise in unemployment. That is not happening,” he said, noting that Jamaica has managed to foster a stable job market with the lowest unemployment figures on record.

Mr. Holness pointed to the visible signs of economic activity, including the flow of trucks delivering aggregate all over the island for ongoing construction projects.

“People are investing, people are building, so the economy is growing still,” he said.