More Sporting Facilities to be Built

Government will be making more sporting facilities and amenities available to Jamaicans this financial year, in an attempt to channel and develop positive values and attitudes in the society.
Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller, in her Budget Presentation in the House of Representatives yesterday (May 1), mentioned plans to build 27 multi-purpose courts and the construction or upgrading of five playfields.
Emphasizing the challenge to develop Jamaica’s youth into “wholesome, socially responsible and involved citizens,” Mrs. Simpson Miller said that sports could be used as an avenue for character building. “Sport is one of the most important avenues for character building, discipline and in general, the development of positive values and attitudes,” she posited.
She noted that the industry has the potential to generate employment for Jamaican athletes, whom she said, “have made us proud.”
“In this era of globalization, sport is not just fun and games; it is big business. Some of the highest paid professionals are to be found in sports and the cultural industries. In many countries, it is a major source of employment, as well as a rallying point for peace and patriotism,” Mrs. Simpson Miller pointed out.
She noted that the stadiums that have been built, including the Trelawny Multi-Purpose stadium “will serve us now and for future generations.”
“The task of providing the facilities and amenities to enable our youth to enjoy continued success on the world stage is a massive one, requiring the combined energies of the national family,” she stated.
In the meantime, the Prime Minister said that a number of national associations will benefit from additional grants to compete in major world championships and qualifying tournaments for the 2008 Olympics.
The Sports Development Foundation is also committing approximately $240 million to national associations, government agencies and projects.