More Speeches

Today as we observe teachers' day it is a signal honour for me to present a most deserving and fitting tribute to the architects of our nation. I applaud the efforts of the Jamaica Teachers' Association who are the pioneers of Education Week. Over the years, the association has been relentless in pursuing initiatives that protect the interests and welfare...

Members of the Senate will recall that on February 13 last, I made a statement advising the Senate that an action had been filed in the Supreme Court by the Leader of the Opposition. In this action, he sought various Declarations and Orders aimed at preventing any debate taking place here or in the House of Representatives in respect of...

I will provide responses and clarification for a set of questions/issues raised by Opposition Spokespersons. ALCOA InvestmentThe Opposition Spokesman on Finance posed six questions about the proposed investment. I must confess surprise at some of the questions, as several of the answers are already in the public domain. Nonetheless I will respond. Environmental Impact AssessmentThe contract for carrying out the...

I will provide responses and clarification for a set of questions/issues raised by Opposition Spokespersons. ALCOA InvestmentThe Opposition Spokesman on Finance posed six questions about the proposed investment. I must confess surprise at some of the questions, as several of the answers are already in the public domain. Nonetheless I will respond. Environmental Impact AssessmentThe contract for carrying out the...

I consider it a real privilege to once again make my contribution to the Annual Budget Presentation to this Honourable House as Prime Minister for the thirteenth consecutive time - the lucky baker's dozen. Despite the exacting demands of this high office that have caused me many times to call on all my reserves of patience, tolerance and fortitude and...

I consider it a real privilege to once again make my contribution to the Annual Budget Presentation to this Honourable House as Prime Minister for the thirteenth consecutive time - the lucky baker's dozen. Despite the exacting demands of this high office that have caused me many times to call on all my reserves of patience, tolerance and fortitude and...

Honourable Members: You meet today at the start of a legislative year which presents both significant challenges and exciting opportunities. The Government senses within our society a new spirit of partnership and a sense of urgency in addressing issues of fundamental importance to our nation. We are determined to build on that spirit. The programme of the administration for 2004-2005...

Ever since the arrival of former President Aristide, he and representatives of the Government have been in dialogue. For a variety of reasons, the Government of Jamaica, with the consent of former President Aristide, has been engaged in efforts to establish a choice of alternatives, should it become necessary or desirable for him and his family to be temporarily located...

Ever since the arrival of former President Aristide, he and representatives of the Government have been in dialogue. For a variety of reasons, the Government of Jamaica, with the consent of former President Aristide, has been engaged in efforts to establish a choice of alternatives, should it become necessary or desirable for him and his family to be temporarily located...

The Caribbean Community has demonstrated considerable diplomatic capacity in formulating the CARICOM Initiative in respect of the ongoing Haitian political crisis. CARICOM has achieved as well a remarkable sense of unity in its response to the aftermath of former President Aristide's sudden departure from office on the 29th of February. These have earned marked respect from sections of the International...

The Caribbean Community has demonstrated considerable diplomatic capacity in formulating the CARICOM Initiative in respect of the ongoing Haitian political crisis. CARICOM has achieved as well a remarkable sense of unity in its response to the aftermath of former President Aristide's sudden departure from office on the 29th of February. These have earned marked respect from sections of the International...

In view of the ongoing developments in our sister state of Haiti, I want to use this opportunity to update Parliament on the present situation, and on Jamaica's and CARICOM's role in attempting to bring about a lasting solution to the crisis. We have sought to do so in keeping with our cherished democratic norms and principles. Background Parliament is...