PRIME Minister Portia Simpson Miller, who yesterday marked her first year in office as head of government, last night reeled off a long list of achievements under her leadership in a televised address to the nation.

Chief among the achievements, according to the prime minister, were the advancement of human rights, now being carried out through a reform of the justice system; expansion of police crime-fighting units across the island; improvements in the health and education sectors; increased housing benefits; and the creation of more jobs and improvements to the island’s physical infrastructure.

“I greet you…with a renewed commitment to service,” the prime minister said. “This evening I come to you as your servant-leader, to give account of my stewardship,” she added.

Having invoked God’s presence at her swearing-in ceremony last year, and committing to include the church in her administration, Simpson Miller gave thanks to the Supreme One for having enabled her to face the challenges of the past year.

According to the prime minister, more attention was paid to the justice system last year than in the previous 22 years combined.

“Over the past 22 years, we spent $455 million on capital development within the justice system. Last year alone, $436 million was allocated for this purpose,” she said. In addition, she said more than a billion dollars have been allocated to the rehabilitation and construction of court houses.

On the vexed issue of crime and violence, Simpson Miller said although the country did not get to where it needed to be, progress was made. She said a lack of vital equipment was one factor that fought against the efficiency of the security forces.

She said, too, that the 5.8 per cent inflation rate under her administration was the lowest in two decades.

“Interest rates declined not once, not twice, but four times in the past year, bringing interest rates to its lowest level in over 20 years,” she said.

“…There is a steady hand, guided by God, steering this ship, a heart full of love for the people, a strong determination to work for this country’s productivity and prosperity and a willingness to listen to and learn from those who want to see Jamaica victorious,” said Simpson Miller.