( L - R ) Simpson-Miller, Hall and Golding

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller wants Jamaicans to make 2007 a year of transformation, during which all will come together to make things better for the country, while Opposition Leader Bruce Golding says this must be "the year of decision".

In her New Year's message, the Prime Minister said the work to build the nation and wage a war on poverty, crime, violence and the challenges that beset the country, should continue.

"At this time in our history, we need the commitment and energies of all the people, for national, community and personal success," she said. At the same time, the Prime Minister recognises that there may be differences in opinion.

"This year, it is all for Jamaica and Jamaica for all," she said. "Nothing must be allowed to divert us from the common cause of making the country in which we live, the best in the world. I know we are equal to the task."

Rekindle hope

In the meantime, Mr. Golding says 2007 would not be business as usual, "because business as usual means stagnation as usual. We must rekindle hope in the minds of the Jamaican people," he said.

The Opposition Leader noted that in 2007, new directions, new strategies and new leadership must be found to keep hope alive. He also wants a course to be charted to enable Jamaicans to better achieve their potential and to provide a better life for themselves.

"We can make Jamaica a much better place than it is. We can make Jamaica a land where people can feel safe and secure; where their rights are protected; where they have a government that they can trust; and, a Parliament in which they are effectively represented."

Mr. Golding has also urged Jamaicans to become involved in the affairs of their country.

Governor-General Professor Kenneth Hall is imploring that Jamaicans start the New Year with achievable resolutions.

"This year, I propose that we all light candles of understanding and unite in strengthening the foundations of our society for future development," he said.

He urged that people resolve to work harder and contribute to economic growth; build communities to be havens of peace and development for families and friends; stamp out criminal activities, which hold communities in terror, and ultimately erode the social fabric of the nation.

The Governor-General said Jamaicans should teach their children and, therefore, the next generation to be good citizens.