THE EDITOR, Sir:

The Private Sector Appreciation of Jamaica is my way of recording the responses to various appeals from different segments of the society, such as the following:

Good Day, Sir:

"I'm asking Corporate Jamaica to get on-board". I hear that famous cry every day from almost everybody planning or putting forward an event proposal. If one stays true to his/her genetic make-up of honesty that was embedded in him or her, then I'm certain he or she will agree with me that the 'private sector' or private 'corporate Jamaica', as it is so often referred to, has played an irreplaceable role in our Jamaican society.

So significant has been its contribution to a wide array of this landscape, ranging from churches, voluntary foundations, civic associations, schools, hospitals, sporting clubs and facilities, communities, etc, that some aspect of survival for such facilities and institutions immensely relies on its generosity.

Recognising a few

Is it possible to measure its contribution? Or most important, how grateful are we as a nation for its contribution?

Certainly, we have seen the nationally demonstrated recognition for the services and contribution of various facets, inclusive of our freedom fighters (heroes and civil rights activists), parents, musicians, business leaders, restaurants, nurses, sports personnel, politicians, authors, scholars in the form of medals, holidays, honorary pins, ODs, OMs, OJs, etc.

But why are we not at least that appreciative of the private sector that over the years has been responsible for the donation of millions of dollars to worthy causes? Causes ranging from the purchasing of machines for the health sector (hospitals and clinics), the construction of numerous community and sporting development projects, contribution to charities, endowment to the entertainment fraternity, assistance to the education system, siding with crime remission programmes, research and development in all areas; and the list goes on.

Covering all grounds

Companies such as Red Stripe, Wray and Nephew, Digicel, Cable and Wireless are some of the standout names that come to mind. I'm proud to be part of a valued contributor (which will remain anonymous), more so to the education sector; but who whistles thank you for your effort in a cohesive and publicly recognised manner?

Why not create a weeklong celebration in respect for the private sector's assistance to the country's welfare where, every day, a particular group (for example, health and civic associations) offers its appreciation in whatever form.

I believe, for the mere fact that we are going to show appreciation wherever necessary for the development of this blessed country, we should at least ensure that we cover all grounds of gratitude, so no party feels excluded and our country, our people and our vision of continuous development, is not adversely affected.

Just a suggestion anyway!

I am, etc.,

JERMAINE SIMMS

jermainesimmsplatinumwebsite@hotmail.com

Clarendon

Via Go-Jamaica