The newly-elected president of the Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA), Marjory Kennedy who participated, as a member, in the Shipping Association of Jamaica's 68th annual general meeting, congratulates Michael Bernard on his
re-election as president of the SAJ. Looking on is Roger Hinds, vice-president of the SAJ. The meeting took place on Friday, December 1, at the SAJ offices, 4 Fourth Avenue, Newport West. - Contributed
Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) President Michael Bernard and his entire managing committee were unanimously returned en bloc to serve a second consecutive term at the 68th annual general meeting (AGM) last Friday.
In his report to the AGM, Mr. Bernard noted that 2005/2006 saw "a qualitatively higher level of industry interaction, knowledge-sharing and membership and staff involvement in SAJ activities". He also said that this was achieved because the association is committed to creating strong and vibrant partnerships within the shipping industry through efficient teamwork and the use of proficiencies that can be accessed either internally or externally..
Specific achievements noted by Mr. Bernard include:
Swift and effective response to new requirements for skilled labour at the Port of Kingston, through selective recruitment and intensive training;
Maintenance of harmonious industrial relations at the ports;
The SAJ received the prestigious 'Employment Creation and 40 plus Award' from the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica "in recognition of its significant investment which has led to creation of sustainable employment opportunities and for employment for over 40 plus years." Mr. Bernard pointed out that at the time of getting the award in February 2006, the SAJ employed 230 stevedores, and that since then, the number has increased to 354.
The successful launch of the 'Lunch & Learn' series that brings members and partners to the Association's offices to share ideas about various issues and developments relating to the maritime sector;
Expansion of port computer services to offer additional and enhanced computer services to its clients, including successful implementation of two phases of an e-commerce facility for Kingston Wharves Limited;
Maintenance of the canine service to continue the fight against illegal drugs;
Relaunch of the upgraded and enhanced SAJ website www.jamports.com;
Renewed efforts to rezone the Newport West community into a gated industrial park;
Completion of the History of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, 1939-2005 that is to be launched in January 2007;
Strengthening of the SAJ's relationship with key partners such as the Port Authority of Jamaica and the Customs Department.
Roger Hinds will continue to serve as vice-president of the SAJ (his second consecutive term) while other members of the managing committee are: Harry Maragh (immediate past president), Grantley Stephenson, Donovan Martin, Paula Pinnock, Charles Johnston, Corah Ann Robertson-Sylvester, Kim Clarke and Joseph Lowe.
During the SAJ's 68th AGM, General Manager Trevor Riley showed members the 'first-off-the-press' copy of the History of the Shipping Association of Jamaica which will soon be on sale.
