Time to chart a new beginning
THE ISLAND'S leaders have urged Jamaicans, in their Independence Day messages, to draw inspiration from the nation's past to tackle current difficulties and challenges.
In his message Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke said Jamaicans should use the occasion of Independence to chart a new beginning of sacrifices, supported by good vision and hard work.
"We must make a commitment within ourselves to make a difference in our little corners for the common good of all, and allow the ripple effect that this can have to permeate our society," he said.
However Sir Howard acknowledged that there would be difficulties. "There have been threats to our economic growth," he said adding that "As the impact of globalisation continues to remove more barriers around the world and the movement of skills and capital among countries become easier, the competitive challenges posed for countries such as Jamaica become greater."
The Governor-General also advised Jamaicans to assume collective responsibility to address the problems of HIV/AIDS and poverty. At the same time he said there must be sound leadership at all levels.
Prime Minister P.J. Patterson has said that as Jamaica celebrates its 42nd year of Independence, efficient ways of coping with the global demands of the 21-century should be considered.
In his Independence message, Mr. Patterson said current indicators point to an up-turn in the economy as well as social well-being, but he noted that crime and violence have become "the borderless monster roaming the entire planet and jeopardising the peace and prosperity of our country."
In addition, he said young people were not as active as they should be in the planning of Jamaica's political, social and economic future.
Nevertheless, the Prime Minister said he was encouraged by the co-operation, support and dedication of several persons who have collaborated and assisted the Government to ensure that Jamaica remains a land to love and cherish.
He challenged "all who now hold leadership positions in our nation, to reach out more creatively and aggressively to these young citizens since it is in their hands we must leave our beloved country. We must prepare them to assume this responsibility."
In his message, Opposition Leader Edward Seaga said while there has been some gains over the last 42 years, the country has registered far fewer achievements than it should have. "There are many countries with only half of the blessings we have that would have taken full advantage if they were in our position," he said, but "sadly, we have not, and we are the worse for it."
Mr. Seaga noted that among the reasons for Jamaica's failures were political policies and 'equally bad' political decisions. He said the country was not on a clear and straight path which may destroy the motivation of those who could initiate growth given the existing high taxes, high prices and high interest rates.
