THE Jamaica Manufacturer’s Association (JMA) has joined in extending congratulations to Prime Minister-designate Bruce Golding and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) on the victory in last Monday’s general election.

At the same time, the organisation, headed by businessman Omar Azan, pledged its full support to the new government “as we work together to achieve sustainable growth”.

“Commendations also to all successful candidates in your bid to provide meaningful representation to our fellow Jamaicans,” the JMA said in a statement.

The organisation added that 18 years of leadership was no easy feat and acknowledged the contribution of the People’s National Party (PNP) to nation building. “As our nation embarks on another juncture under new leadership, it is our hope that both parties will collaborate to facilitate continued development,” said the JMA.

The JMA also extended its gratitude to the security forces, the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) and all volunteers who helped to ensure “the successful staging of election 2007”, which it said was a demonstration of a functional democratic process.

Meanwhile, the JMA said the JLP’s manifesto outlined various plans for the manufacturing sector which it hoped would come to fruition

“.The JMA will engage in dialogue with the new administration, at the earliest opportunity, to ensure that the interests of our manufacturers are represented,” said the association.