Speaker of the House of representatives, the Honourable Violet Neilson. - FileThe following is the speech delivered by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Violet Neilson, M.P. at the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament, last Thursday.
THE WORLD is a very difficult place now, and in our blessed country, Jamaica Land We Love, it is no different. As part of a global world, we are not insulated by the economic political, social or environmental crises that are so much a part of our daily menu.
As we attempt, therefore, to build our own little nation, we have come to recognise over the 40 years of our existence that building a nation, whether first world or third world country, is an awesome responsibility for any government.
As we go into yet another Parliamentary year, I am struck by how quickly the time is passing by. But what have we gained from our experiences during the times that we have sat here so regularly, debating the fate of a country and her people? Well today, as many times before, I am struck by the magnitude of the responsibility that we have all taken on to make decisions and institute policies on behalf of the near three million persons living on our beloved island.
This is a responsibility that I want you to take very seriously. As I have sat here, year after year, I like Martin Luther King Jnr., can say that I have a dream. I have had a dream for this Parliament, that one day both sides of the House can sit together as brothers and sisters, deliberating consciously, responsibly, energetically and caringly, but most of all in peace on behalf of those persons beyond these walls who have entrusted us with their welfare, their lives and their fortunes.
We need to go back to the realisation that we operate not as masters but as servants, serving our country with dedication, high standards, sacrifice and enthusiasm. We are required to not only lead, but also lead by example, because our contribution will be judged by not only what we speak on behalf of our country, but also what we do to make the life of each citizen better and more fulfilling.
I want, therefore, to implore every member of this gathering to not only seek to speak out to speak responsibly, motivating our people to good thoughts and better deeds.
As we grow and mature, the challenges will be many. But as Jamaicans, we have always been blessed with a will to succeed. We see this in our scholars as they excel in every success and the result of success are all around, so let us not be our worst enemy. Let us strive together to build our country into a glorious nation. Let us here be the beacons that guide those who have entrusted us to lead. Leading them to greater achievements and fulfilment, as they too seek to play a role in advancing the welfare of their beloved nation.
At this time, as we come closer to the fortieth anniversary of our independence, we need to reflect on our past experiences, how they have impacted on our goal of nation building, and how we plan to continue the process, instituting the relevant changes, as we seek to find the right path of development for ourselves and our country.
I pray God that we will be focused and that He will guide us through the right pathway.
