Monarch mourning period won’t stop party conference – PNP
Published:Friday | September 9, 2022 | 12:12 AM
The People’s National Party’s (PNP) 84th annual conference slated for September 16 to18 will still take place despite the period of mourning from September 8 to 19 declared by the Government to observe the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
PNP General Secretary Dayton Campbell told The Gleaner that plans are too advanced to change.
“We will pause during our conference to acknowledge her death. We are not insensitive to what has happened, but we do have a conference that has already been planned, funds have already been extended, and we will go ahead,” Campbell said late Thursday.
“I’m sure that they’re still going ahead with things in the UK and elsewhere in the Commonwealth,” he added.
In a press statement issued Thursday, the Government advised that, during the period of mourning, it is the customary that no celebratory activities take place.
Additionally, a specific day of mourning is to be observed on September 18. On that day, only authorised activities related to the day will be approved, and all social events should be postponed.
But the PNP’s three-day conference will culminate on September 18 with the public session at the National Arena that is expected to draw thousands of Comrades.
The party’s president, Mark Golding, will make his first address as president in that setting, because coronavirus regulations had restricted mass gatherings.
“We are excited about the conference period, and it will go on,” Campbell reiterated.
During the period of mourning, all flags on public buildings should be flown at half-mast. Additionally, bells at churches in parish capitals tolled for an hour on Thursday.
A condolence book has been established at King’s House for dignitaries. Separate condolence books will also be in the offices of the custodes in all parishes, for members of the public to sign.
On Saturday, September 10, all flags should be fully hoisted between 8 a.m and 1 p.m. to mark the proclamation of the new monarch. The Jamaica Defence Force will deliver a 21-gun salute at 11 a.m.
The Government advised that further announcements regarding the holding of the national memorial service and other official parish services will be made.