THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE CLARENDON Chamber of Commerce extends congratulations and well wishes to the shareholders, management and staff of JAMALCO on their initiative to expand the production capacity at the Halse Hall refinery. This will result in an increase of the production from 1.25 million to 2.65 million metric tons per year.
We welcome this initiative as we are aware of the positive economic and social impact this should have on the parish of Clarendon and on Jamaica in general. The construction phase is projected to be carried out over a two-year period and is expected to employ approximately 2,500 construction workers at peak. Our businesses should also benefit from the additional services that will be required during this period. Also after the construction, the increase in the physical refinery demands should result in the company requiring a greater level of resources from the business community.
DONATED
The Chamber is also very pleased to know that JAMALCO has donated the facilities at Breadnut Valley including machinery, buildings and infrastructure to be used as a training institute to be operated by Heart NTA. We believe this is a valuable investment in the development of the skill level of the Jamaican workforce. It is believed that the institute will evaluate, train and certify to international standard persons in skill trades such as welders, pipe-fitters and electricians.
We are appealing to all well-thinking Jamaicans with emphasis on the people of Clarendon to unite with JAMALCO in making this expansion a success.
The Clarendon Chamber of Commerce plans to meet with some government agencies, civil groups, community groups, and the Security Forces to discuss the importance of our collective approach toward the success of this venture.
We are, etc.,
Clarendon Chamber
of Commerce
ALDO BROWN
1st vice president
