Positive Social Influence of Sport Highlighted

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Alison McLean, says the Government recognizes the positive social influence of sport and is committed to its development.

“Sport strengthens the core values of dignity, fairness, honesty, integrity and courage. At the same time it promotes positive social values, such as inclusiveness, respect for teamwork, tolerance and peaceful resolution of conflict,” Ms. McLean noted.

The Permanent Secretary was speaking at a symposium on April 18, as part of activities to mark World Heritage Day, at the University of Technology (UTech), on Old Hope Road in Kingston.  The day was observed under the theme: ‘Heritage of Sport’.

Ms. McLean, who represented Minister, Hon. Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, said the Government is encouraging the participation of more persons in sport, as this will assist in making the country more competitive in the various sporting disciplines.

The event also featured a panel discussion on the influence of sport on the economy and national development.

The panel comprised sport industry professionals and stakeholders, including   Olympian, Grace Jackson; President of the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), Wavel Hinds; Senior Director in the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Florette Blackwood; and Technical Director of the Jamaica Hockey Federation, Dr. Michelle Holt.

World Heritage Day sought to raise public awareness about the world’s built monuments and heritage sites, and the efforts required to protect and conserve these assets.

Earlier in the day, Minister Grange unveiled a Gateway sign in Papine square, St. Andrew, leading to the Blue and John Crow Mountains, a World Heritage Site.