Port Royal Seafood Fest beckons

Minister of Industry, Commerce and Technology, Phillip Paulwell (right) and Angela Lim-Tom (left), listen as Ambassador Marjorie Taylor speaks. They were at the launch of the Port Royal Seafood festival at the Coutleigh Hotel and Suites, New Kingston last Wednesday. - Winston Sill

THE PROMISE of the freshest and the best seafood and other delicious offerings is expected to lure a number of persons to Port Royal on October 14, 2001 for the first Port Royal Seafood Festival. The festival, which was launched at the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, New Kingston, last Wednesday is the initiative of the Port Royal Fishermen's Co-operative. It is strongly supported by former MP for East Kingston and Port Royal, Ambassador Marjorie Taylor and the present MP, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Technology, Phillip Paulwell.

Cool winds blew by the patio where the gathering stood for the event and emcee, Novia McDonald-White, informed them that they were getting it as a result of rain in Port Royal.

Ambassador Taylor was very excited about the event. Phrases such as 'pork of the sea' and 'jerk chicken of the sea' attested to that. She said they were opening a laid-back fishing village for the day which will be family friendly. "We are expecting to set up a children's village" she said. This should include bounce-abouts, donkey rides and other fun things for children. The Ambassador placed great emphasis on Port Royal's rich history and legacy as well as the ambience which has become popular among foreigners and locals alike.

She also claimed that the best steamed fish and the best of every other seafood can only be had in Port Royal. The guests agreed, especially the representatives from Port Royal.

Minister Paulwell said persons can expect hospitality to the hilt. "This is a win-win project. Food is everything and you can't go wrong with food." Lime Cay, a part of his constituency, will be part of the attraction for the occasion. The festival will cost J $2.1 million and he pledged to raise all of it. Already, several corporate companies have joined as major sponsors.

Some people went to the event with the hope of being served seafood hors d'oeurves but there was no seafood in sight. However, they were assured that in order to get seafood they would have to go to the festival.

- Sonia Morgan

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