Governor General Sir Patrick Allen called on Scouts to continue to effect positive change in Jamaica. This was stated in his message at the culminating activity for the Scout Association of Jamaica in their Founder’s Day Celebrations which was held at the Holiness Apostolic Church in Yallahs, St. Thomas on Sunday February 26.
In his address to the congregation, Sir Patrick stated that “our young people form the backbone of our nation, and with the right, support, encouragement and guidance they can change the future of our society”.
Sir Patrick Allen also sounded a similar tone on Thursday February 23, at the Scouts Public Meeting held at King’s House. In addressing approximately 200 Scouts and Unit Leaders, he said that “many influential Jamaicans including former Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke who were Scouts in their youth, benefited from the discipline and education gained as a result of their involvement in the movement”.
He added that “these individuals had their characters molded by the Scout Movement and they have used the discipline, values and social etiquette to which they were exposed for the betterment of society”. He said Cub Scouts and Boys Scouts should therefore “stay the course and remain loyal and always support the Scout Movement.” The Governor-General, who is also Chief Scout, said that scouting is part of what is right with Jamaica and efforts should therefore be made to recruit more members into the movement.
As the Scout Association celebrates 102 years in Jamaica, Sir Patrick Allen expressed appreciation for those persons who have faithfully served the Association. He said the impact of their contribution confronts Jamaicans whenever they interact with someone whose life has been touched by scouting.
During Founder’s Week forty-four Scouts and Unit Leaders were presented with Warrants and Certificates in recognition of their achievements. A special presentation was made to Mr. Julian Templar, an Executive of National Safety Limited, for his contribution to scouting in Jamaica. As a Boys Scout, Mr. Templar opened the door of the car transporting Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, when she attended Jamaica’s Independence celebrations at the National Stadium in 1962.