Yearly Archives: 2024

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon and a warm welcome to each and every one of you. It is an honour and a privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate the prestigious Achievement Awards for Excellence, a testament to the incredible accomplishments of our diaspora. In this gathering, we are surrounded by…

Today, we gather both in person and online, to witness a momentous occasion in the rich tradition of our nation—the installation of the new Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of Clarendon. This ceremony, steeped in tradition yet vibrant with promise, marks not only a continuation of dedicated service but also the beginning of a new chapter in our history.

Firstly, I wish to express profound gratitude to the Honourable William Shagoury, who served as Custos of Clarendon with distinction and unwavering commitment from August 1, 2011, to March 7, 2024. His tenure, characterized by compassion and dedication, has significantly shaped the landscape of the Parish’s civic life. His service extended beyond the administrative duties to fostering a sense of unity and civic pride all across Clarendon. To Custos, his wife Jill and family, we owe a great debt of gratitude (please join me as we offer Custos a resounding applause).

Today, as we turn a new leaf, we are privileged to welcome Mrs. Edith Chin into her new role. Mrs. Chin, a person of considerable repute in entrepreneurship, community service, and cultural preservation, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the welfare of the people of Clarendon. Her exemplary leadership skills, honed over years of managing and supporting diverse teams, make her eminently qualified to oversee approximately 630 Justices of the Peace and inspire the over 246,000 residents of Clarendon.

The role of the Custos is critical and multifaceted. It includes the careful selection and swearing-in of Justices of the Peace, ensuring that they uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability. The Custos as custodian of the Magistrates’ Roll, plays a pivotal role in the administration of justice, and fosters the relationship between the state and the parish. This position is not merely ceremonial but is crucial in promoting the rule of law, public order, and civic pride.

As Mrs. Chin assumes this prestigious office, we encourage her to continue to be vigilant in her duties, ensuring that the values of justice, fairness, and community service are reflected in every decision. Your role as a bridge connecting the government’s goals with the unique needs of our community is vital. We trust that your tenure will be marked by resilience, clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to the principles that uphold the social fabric of the community.

Moreover, Your leadership will also be crucial in driving The Governor-General’s Programme for Excellence, which includes the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards and the I Believe Initiative. These programs aim not just to celebrate excellence but to engage and inspire our youth to embrace their potential and contribute meaningfully to our national development.

In conclusion, let us unite in support of Mrs. Chin, engaging with her leadership to foster a community that is stronger, more connected, and resilient. Congratulations, Mrs. Chin, on your new role. We look forward to your contributions to the peace and prosperity of Clarendon and, by extension, Jamaica.

I now invite you to come forward to receive the Grand Commission and the Magistrate’s Roll for the Parish of Clarendon

THE GOVERNOR GENERAL’S THRONE SPEECH Honourable Members, we give God thanks that today we can say that we are a stronger, more resilient Jamaica; having had a remarkable recovery from recent global shocks.   We place our trust in the Almighty’s assurance: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for…