INTERMITTENTLY, particularly at this time of year when we reflect on our heritage and pay homage to the brave individuals who have contributed to defining our nation, a discussion on the criteria for being named national hero is raised.

It’s an issue we have commented on in this space before, pointing out that several questions have emerged now that we have been politically independent for more than a half-century. First, outside of former Premier Norman Manley and former Prime Minister Sir Alexander Bustamante, has any Jamaican in the last 60 years done anything sufficiently important and significant to make them worthy of being named national hero?

There is, as far as we are aware, no limit to the number of national heroes a country can have. Therefore, if there are individuals whose achievements merit such a status, then they can be so designated.

What, then, should be the criteria for being designated a national hero? If it must be contributions that have made a profound difference to Jamaica and Jamaicans, then contributions in the political arena cannot be the only consideration.

Any field of endeavour which makes a significant difference to Jamaica and Jamaicans should be eligible — be it sports, culture, science, or education.

We have seen in the field of culture, for instance, some Jamaicans advancing the argument that Mr Robert Nesta Marley and Mrs Louise Bennett-Coverley deserve to be designated national heroes.

In the field of sports some people would make a case for outstanding cricketers Messrs George Headley and Michael Holding; others would support Messrs Arthur Wint, Herb McKenley and, naturally, Mr Usain Bolt, who not only did Jamaica proud but has a global impact and is the greatest sprinter in history.

As we have pointed out before, everything comes down to the criteria. Currently, the honour is “bestowed on any person who was born in Jamaica, or at the time of his/her death was a citizen of Jamaica, and rendered to Jamaica service of a most distinguished nature”.

There are, of course, many Jamaicans who qualify under this criterion. However, if it is that there is concern the Order may become crowded and as such risk reducing its significance and revered status, maybe the Government, aided by the Chancery of the Societies of Honour, could examine the idea of designating deserving Jamaicans the title of National Treasure.

Our history is replete with such outstanding Jamaicans who have excelled in a range of disciplines — sports, culture, religion, business, education, medicine, and science, just to name a few. Honouring them in this fashion and placing their lives on display would, we believe, serve to inspire our people, particularly the young who could benefit from more positive role models.

The designation would also signal to Jamaicans and the wider world that the Jamaican State recognises and rewards hard work, dedication and talent. Additionally, it would serve as an expression of national identity, celebrating all that is good and great about this country that continues to punch above its weight in many spheres of life.

We welcome the debate.