It has been brought to my attention that while I was off the island, there were a number of broadcasts and publications in the media with respect to the consideration of undertaking a development on the Goat Islands. The concerns have been specifically related to the protection and conservation of the environment, and to ensure that if development were to...

The Jamaica Anti-Doping (JADCO) views with deep concern the utterances by various persons in the public sphere in their attempt to discredit the work of JADCO, its Commissioners, the Government of Jamaica and the success of Jamaican athletes. Like most Jamaicans, JADCO joins in congratulating our athletes for their outstanding performances at the recently concluded World Championships. Our athletes were...

My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you warmly as we unite in celebrating that momentous first of August in 1838 when “Full Freedom” finally ended the oppressive slave regime in Jamaica and elsewhere in the British Empire. Amidst the various celebratory events, we must not forget the journey of our ancestors: the degradation, hardships and suffering they endured; the resilience they...

My fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora, it gives me great joy to greet you on this special Emancipation Day! This year we celebrate the 175th anniversary of full freedom from slavery. Now more than ever we must draw on the history of our ancestors, the spirit of our ancestors and heed their call - a call captured...

Address by Senator the Hon. Sandrea Falconer at Plaque Unveiling Ceremony for UNESCO Memory of the World Register  THURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2013 at 10.00AM THE JAMAICA ARCHIVES, SPANISH TOWN  SALUTATION Spanish Town Mayor, His Worship Councillor Norman Scott Mr Sidney Bartley, Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Culture Distinguished Representatives of the Jamaica National Commission for UNESCO Officials of...

Mr. President, Please accept heartiest congratulations on your assumption of the Presidency of the Assembly during its Nineteenth Session. I am confident that under your able stewardship, the work of the Assembly will result in a fruitful and productive outcome. I also commend Ambassador Milan J.N. Meetarbhan of Mauritius for his commendable stewardship of the Assembly during its Eighteenth Session...

Rationale for the 2013 Emancipation/Independence Celebrations 1. The celebration of Independence 2013 commemorates some very important milestones in our country’s history, which have all been taken into consideration in the planning and implementation of this year’s celebrations. 2. Among these milestones are: The 275th anniversary of the Treaty between the Windward Maroons and the British that established the first community...