FT. LAUDERDALE – Remittances to Jamaica have remained steady, according to Jamaica National’s Sales and Marketing Manager for North America, Mr. Charles Spence.
Speaking at a meeting of the Jamaica National Spotlight Series in Fort Lauderdale, last Friday (Nov. 21) Mr. Spence said that the company has not yet experienced any downward trend in the flow of remittances to the island since the US economic meltdown.
As they continue to monitor the trends through Jamaica National Overseas, Mr. Spence indicated that Jamaicans are always responding to their personal obligations as well as other commitments. In that case, regardless of the circumstances, remittances would continue to flow into the island.
According to data released, the overall flow of remittances into the country last year totaled some $1.9 billion (US) indicating the steady growth yearly.
In comparison, Ms. Hazel Maragh, Marketing Consultant of Grace Kennedy Remittance Services/Western Union (GKRS/Western Union) and Steve Higgins, Caribbean Regional Manager for MoneyGram, have both indicated to JIS that remittances also remain steady at their respective companies, despite the US economic meltdown.
While GKRS/Western Union remain the market leader in remittances, Ms. Maragh mentioned growth in the industry although there were changes in the flow. She spoke of primary and secondary movement of Jamaican in the Diaspora as contributing factors.
A series of interactive meetings are part of the Jamaica National Spotlight Series. So far, meetings have also taken place with Jamaicans in the Diaspora in US communities including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Atlanta and Orlando.
While the company continues to market its products and services, discussions are also centered on areas for personal investment and wealth creation in the Jamaican economy.
Describing Jamaicans as industrious and innovative, with strong links to their homeland, JN Regional Manager, Mrs. Carmen Bartlett told the large turnout of nationals that they represented a resource base that have always been contributing to their homeland. She expressed appreciation to the audience continuing that their active commitment was support to the country’s national development.
Presentations were also made by Ms. Maxine Hinds, Sales Support Manager for Jamaica National.
