KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister of Jamaica Bruce Golding, has underscored Jamaica’s capacity for greatness and creativity despite its size.
“It has been 46 years since we gained Independence, forty-six years since we proudly took our place among the nations of the world. We are a small nation when compared to the rest of the world, but in so many ways, in so many areas of endeavour, we have caused the world to sit up and take notice. Our culture, music, scholars, sportsmen and sportswomen, have earned us international recognition and admiration. Right now, we are looking forward to the Jamaican flag flying high, as our athletes prepare themselves for the Olympics in Beijing, China” the Prime Minister stated in his 2008 Independence Day message.
The message was read by the Mayor of May Pen, Councillor Milton Brown, at the town’s Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony, held on the grounds of the May Pen Court House in Clarendon, on Wednesday (August 6).
Against the background of the country’s accomplishments, Mr. Golding charged individuals to commit themselves to maintaining the nation’s wellbeing. This, he said, was necessary, in light of the significant transformation which has occurred globally over the past several years, which has seen many countries predisposed toward fierce competition in the global marketplace.
“Economics, not politics, is what now defines international relations,” he stressed, noting that the challenges which Jamaica experienced over the past year, were potent reminders of this harsh reality. Nevertheless, Mr. Golding, urged individuals to maintain a spirit of resilience, as the country strives to preserve the accomplishments achieved through the sweat, blood, and tears of the nation’s ancestors.
“The world has never before seen such sharp increases in the prices of basic commodities. The effect on Jamaica, especially the poor, has been severe, yet we have managed to weather the storm. There are hopeful signs that the worst may have passed, and we look to the future with hope, for the dream of Independence is still alive. So as we celebrate our Independence, let us recommit ourselves to. that dream,” Mr. Golding said.
“Let us remind ourselves of the hope given to us by our founding fathers Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley, when they spoke to us on Independence Day, 1962. We have much farther to go, but we have been well prepared and we know the way,” the Prime Minister asserted.
