Good day, my fellow Jamaicans.
Today we come together in observance of Labour Day 2025 under the theme “Protect the Environment: Our Land, Our Duty, Our Future.”
We must do so as one people, with one purpose, as this is a theme that should resonate deeply with us all. We know that this island on which we live, the rivers that flow through our valleys, the mountains that rise above our cities and towns, and the seas that surround us, are not just beautiful scenery. They are our birthright, the foundation of our future, and our responsibility to protect and preserve for generations to come.
This year’s slogan, “Jamaica Nice, Protect Wi Paradise”, is a rallying cry that reminds us that our beautiful country is a gift from God, that we cannot take for granted. Labour Day is a time when we roll up our sleeves and come together as one nation in the spirit of service.
This year, that spirit requires us to dedicate our efforts to protecting our natural environment – the very air we breathe; the forests, rivers, beaches, coral reefs and other marine ecosystems; the aquifers underground that collect and store our water resources; and the unique, precious biodiversity that is truly irreplaceable.
“Jamaica Nice, Protect Wi Paradise” reminds us that our island is a national treasure and a global gem; but it is also vulnerable; it demands our diligent and watchful care. We each have a responsibility to preserve it so that it is not irretrievably lost; so that generations to come don’t look back and say that we let them down.