PM lauds Jamaica’s economic performance, says it is the precursor to ‘true independence’
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness has sought to zero in on the country’s economic performance over the last decade, noting it as a major first step towards true independence.
Speaking at a pre-Independence Day reception at King’s House on Thursday night, Holness described economic independence as true independence.
“It is not readily accepted and understood as to the profound nature of that achievement and what it means. But it is the start of our true independence, our economic independence,” Holness said, highlighting that for years, the country had experienced high levels of debt which had effectively stifled its ability to adequately provide for the people of Jamaica.
“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,” he said. “Now, for the first time, in a long time, maybe in 50 years, we are at that point where we can program and schedule, with great certainty, our investments in infrastructure, and we can make meaningful steps towards proper compensation. If you reflect on those two things, you will see that this is a major achievement for our country.”
Admittedly, Holness noted that there are hardships, but encouraged Jamaicans to be hopeful and think positively, as he was certain that Jamaica would achieve its potential.
“I want us to be hopeful. 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 all its people proper health care 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 added.
Jamaica’s 61st anniversary of Independence reception returned after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event, which saw over 200 guests in attendance, was hosted by the Governor General and his wife on the lawn of King’s House.
