MIAMI – The beginning of a new year brings for Jamaicans, as always, a renewal of hope and a rededication to our ideals and goals. While we can look back with pride to achievements of 2007 such as the exceptional opening ceremony of the Cricket World Cup held in Trelawny, the retention of Asafa Powell’s deserved claim to the title “World’s Fastest Man”, the extraordinary accomplishment of Barrington Irving as the youngest person, ever, to circumnavigate the globe solo, and the successful leadership of the Discovery space shuttle launch by Jamaican born Mission Control Chief Glen Chin, we must not allow ourselves to think that there is time to rest upon our laurels.
Jamaica is still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Dean and subsequent heavy rainfall that has struck the island, the near 100% increase in crude oil and its attendant impact upon the cost of energy and transportation related goods and services, and the country continues the battle against organized crime. As well, the concept of family structure is under pressure as can be expected when single mothers bear the brunt of the burden of child rearing.
Thankfully, there remains the ardent and passionate interest of Jamaicans at home and abroad in the welfare of the nation and its neediest citizens. In the Diaspora, particularly, there is tremendous work being carried out in efforts to make Jamaica the country it has the potential to become. As we take the time to plan our activities for the duration of 2008, let us commit to becoming better informed about the initiatives taking place across our Diasporic communities which aim to improve the lives of Jamaicans at home and, once armed with that data, let us work more earnestly to lend assistance, wherever possible, to public and non-governmental agencies for the greater good of our beloved homeland.
As I wish for you every blessing and increased prosperity during 2008 I take this opportunity to remind you that the Government of Jamaica is committed, with every nerve and sinew, to the improved welfare of every Jamaican. In turn, I encourage you to reach out to the government, through the Consulate General of Jamaica, to offer your noteworthy expertise, resources and guidance for the betterment of us all. The plain truth is that Jamaica cannot achieve its full potential without the engagement of every interested Jamaican at home and abroad. Won’t you play your part?
God bless you, and God bless Jamaica.
C.P. Ricardo Allicock
Consul General
