President of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, Michael Bernard (centre), presents a copy of the book 'The History of the SAJ: 1939-2005', to Professor Denise Eldemire-Shearer. Looking on is author of the book, Senator Anthony Johnson. - Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

"The history of Jamaica's shipping industry is closely related to the history of Jamaica's democracy," declared former Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke as he officially launched the book, The History of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, 1939-2005, at The Devonshire, Devon House, last Friday.

In his keynote address, Sir Howard congratulated the SAJ for the publication that "documents our history and achievements as a people and as a nation". He recommended that the Joint Industrial Council of Port Bustamante be adopted by other industries to promote harmonious industrial relations islandwide.

Another high point of the launch was when the book's author, Senator Anthony Johnson, introduced the gathering to Dudley Doyley, the first Jamaican to be trained to operate the port's gantry crane and who quickly became one of the world's best. Though now retired, Doyley still assists the SAJ in its training programme.

In his welcome address, Michael Bernard, president of the SAJ, said, "The launch of this book could not have come at a better time. It invites us to consider how, many years ago when the industry was being shaped, our industry leaders looked to a future when we would become the top trans-shipment port in the region."

The SAJ president noted that the book reveals how the Port of Kingston became the region's finest, adding, "We must now ensure that our next steps are coordinated to achieve the objective of making Kingston the pre-eminent hub port of the Central America and Caribbean region."

Copies of The History of the SAJ were presented to past presidents and general managers of the association and the trade unions representing portworkers, among others.

The major sponsor of the function was Seaboard Freight & Shipping Jamaica Limited and it was chaired by Trevor Riley, general manager of the SAJ.

The History of the Shipping Association of Jamaica, 1939-2005 is now on sale at the offices of the SAJ, 4 Fourth Avenue, Newport West; telephone 923-3491-2.