Jamaicans urged to reflect on post-Independence achievements
Published:Saturday | July 29, 2023 | 12:06 AMSashana Small/ Staff Reporter
A country’s true independence begins when it achieves economic self-reliance. That was the assertion from Prime Minister Andrew Holness as he lauded the economic growth he said Jamaica has been experiencing.
Speaking at the Governor General’s Independence reception on Thursday night, Holness, while noting that there have been challenges, underlined the importance of Jamaica highlighting its achievements as it prepares to observe 61 years of independence.
“For decades, we have struggled with high debt, for decades we were not able to make investments in our infrastructure, for decades we struggled to start the process of proper compensation. Now, for the first time in a long time, maybe in 50 years, we are at that point where we can programme and schedule with great certainty our investments in infrastructure and we can make meaningful steps towards proper compensation,” he said.
Jamaica’s economy is estimated to have grown by 5.1 per cent between January and December last year. In the first quarter, from January to March this year, it grew by 4.3 per cent. This is according to data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica.
“If you reflect on those two things, you will see that this is a major achievement for all. Hardships there are…yes, but the Jamaican economy is doing well, and we have recovered from the worst health crisis in 100 years, and we are recovering better than we were before the crisis,” he said.
Holness urged Jamaicans to be optimistic as the Government works to ensure all citizens benefit from the country’s economic growth.
“I want us to think positively, I want us to keep faith that Jamaica will fulfil its true potential of being a country that can provide prosperity for its citizens, that Jamaica will be a country that will be able to provide justice for all its people. That Jamaica will be a country that will be able to provide full education for its people, proper healthcare for all its people, and we will be able to do this because we have now started on the pathway of good economic management of our country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen encouraged citizens to view the independence period as a time to reflect.
“This occasion not only marks the progress we have made but also reminds us of the challenges and the uncertainties that lie ahead. During this celebration, we take time to reflect on our national achievements, give thanks to our cultural heritage and legacy and appreciate the international relationships we enjoy,” he said.
Anthony Hylton,opposition spokesman on industry, who represented Opposition Leader Mark Golding, said the time called for celebration.
“Tonight is neither the place nor the time to evaluate our progress over those years, but represents an opportunity to observe and to celebrate, he said.”Celebration is always good for us as a people as it promotes unity of purpose and enhances our patriotic sentiments. Jamaicans need a spirit of patriotism to foster our development as a nation which has significantly impacted global affairs in 61 short years.”