Speeches

SALUTATIONS Your Excellency Ram Nath Kovind President of the Republic of India Your Excellency Mrs Savita Kovind First Lady The Most Honourable Andrew Holness Prime Minister, and the Most Honourable Mrs Holness Mr Mark Golding Leader of the Opposition & Mrs Golding Members of the Cabinet and Senators Members of the Judiciary and the Legislature […]

  Honourable Custodes Abrahim Simmonds, GGPE National Coordinator IBI Ambassadors Ambassadors and Guests joining on the various on-line platforms Ladies and Gentlemen Good morning. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to our third IBI Ambassadors’ Annual General Meeting. It has been two years since we met in this fashion because of the […]

  Your Excellency President Paul Kagame Prime Minister – The Most Honourable Andrew Holness and the Most Honourable Mrs Holness Former Prime Ministers the Most Honourable P.J. Patterson & Hon Bruce Golding and Mrs Golding Members of Cabinet & Senators Your Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps Ladies and Gentlemen   Good evening.   It is […]

SALUTATIONS            Your Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister and Mrs. Holness Ministers of Government and Members of the Judiciary Your Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps Ladies & Gentlemen Good evening.   Lady Allen and I are very pleased to host this dinner for our special […]

  SALUTATIONS:   Mr Mark Golding Leader of the Opposition and Mrs  Golding Senator the Honourable Kamina Minister of Foreign Affairs Johnson Smith and Foreign Trade and Mr.  Smith Senator the Honourable Thomas Tavares Finson – President of the Senate and Mrs Tavares-Finson Honourable Marisa Dalrymple Philibert – Speaker of the House of  Representatives The […]

  I extend a warm welcome to everyone present today at King’s House, to witness the Swearing-in Ceremony for the appointment of Mr. Ian Forbes, to the Office of Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of St. Andrew. Mr. Forbes’ appointment follows that of the Honourable Patricia Dunwell, Custos for the Parish of St. Andrew, who […]

  Good morning.  Welcome to King’s House for this first Swearing-in Ceremony for 2022.  I trust everyone had a calm, restful and peaceful Holiday and I wish you a bright and productive New Year. Congratulations on your adapting to new approaches to aggressively delivering service in this altered environment and ensuring that the wheels of […]

“New Dawn, New Journey: The Directory Of Our Lives”   My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora. On this first day of 2022, we welcome a new dawn that is ripe with limitless possibilities.   Today, as we start on our new journey into the unknown, I offer you words of courage and hope.  […]

  “Peace Amid the Storms”      My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora.       Today, millions of people around the world are celebrating Christmas Day with families and friends.  This is the season of cheer, goodwill and peace.  A time to reflect on the year that is coming to a […]

Good Morning. I extend a warm welcome to everyone present here at King’s House and those viewing on-line, to witness the Swearing-in Ceremony for Mrs. Icylin Golding, as Custos Rotulorumfor the Parish of St. Catherine today.   Mrs. Golding’s appointment follows that of Rev. the Honourable Jeffrey McKenzie, who successfully directed affairs in the Parish […]

As Patron of the Royal Air Forces Association, Jamaica Branch, I am pleased to join your members on this occasion celebrating the Association’s 75th anniversary of patriotic service to our country and for the launch of the Adopt-a-Veteran and Wings Appeal fundraising initiatives. RAFA continues to execute an admirable Programme in expressing appreciation to our brave […]

Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora,  greetings on this the 59thanniversary of Jamaica’s Independence under the theme, “Come mek we celebrate online.” Over the past 59 years, Jamaica and Jamaicans have made great strides and overcome many struggles to become a sovereign nation with an admirable legislative framework and a unique culture, which […]

My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora, greetings. Today, the GGAA joins with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT) to recognize Jamaicans who are giving exceptional service in the Diaspora and in Jamaica.   The Governor-General’s Diaspora Achievement Awards was established in 2008 to recognize excellence among persons 18-35 years […]

It is both my duty and pleasure to swear-in members of our Judiciary, and in that spirit of commitment, I also warmly welcome each of you to King’s House.   The coronavirus pandemic continues to affect the court system, disrupt our respective ways of life and the way in which swearing-in ceremonies are now being conducted.  We, however, continue […]

  Welcome to King’s House for the Investiture Ceremony for the new Poet Laureate of Jamaica, Miss Olive Senior.  Miss Senior succeeds Miss Lorna Goodison who was so recognized in 2017.  Thank you for your service Miss Goodison. Miss Senior follows in the footsteps of other  recognized Poet Laureates Claude McKay, John Clare Ebenezer McFarlane, […]

Good Morning. I extend a warm welcome to everyone present in the ballroom and viewing on-line, to witness the swearing-in of Mr. Hugh Gentles to the Office of Custos of Trelawny.   Mr. Gentles’ appointment follows the resignation of the Honourable Paul Muschett, who served the Parish of Trelawny as its Custos for eleven years. […]

Theme: “Keep Hope Alive” Good morning. Our theme for the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast 2021 implies the question, “Why do we need to keep hope alive?” Hope is the strong belief and faith that our circumstances will improve and we will persevere.  Hope is being confident.  The Apostle Paul reminds us that: ‘Being confident of […]

SALUTATIONS  The Honourable Mr. Justice Bryan Sykes, Chief Justice The Honourable Mr. Justice Patrick Brooks, President of the Court of Appeal Honourable Members of the Privy Council, The Judicial Services Commission, The Judiciary, Judges designated for Appointment Karl Johnson, General Secretary of the Jamaica Baptist Union Representatives of the Bar Association Family members & guests […]

“Adversity and Opportunity”   My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora. Thank you for allowing us into your homes to greet you again this Christmas. We have come through a turbulent year that started with great hope and promises.  We anticipated that 2020 would be a Year of Transformation in our homes, personal […]

Greetings. The pleasure is mine to welcome each one of you to King’s House for the Swearing-in Ceremony for Mr. Justice Patrick Brooks as President of the Court of Appeal. Let me use this occasion firstly, to pay my respects to, and acknowledge the contribution of the Honourable Mr. Justice C Dennis Morrison, whose retirement […]

Salutations Mark Golding, MP Leader of Opposition-Designate, Mrs. Golding, other family members Reverend Garnett Roper – President, Jamaica Theological College Members of Parliament Specially invited guests Ladies and Gentlemen   Greetings. I extend a warm welcome to everyone who is here to support and to witness the formal presentation of the Instrument of Appointment to […]

Jamaica’s black, green and gold flag was unfurled at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on 21stSeptember 1962, marking the country’s entry as a member of that august body.  As we commemorate the 75thAnniversary of the United Nations we pause to reflect on the historical relationship with this noble institution and its impact on […]

Once again, it is my honour and pleasure as Patron of the Jamaica Legion to launch the annual National Poppy Appeal Campaign which takes place from October 4 to November 11, 2020. Each year the Poppy Appeal provides an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the exceptional and sacrificial service, given by the […]

This has been an unusual afternoon, but then we are in challenging times. We continue for the Swearings-in of the first four Ministers of Government for the new Administration.  These Portfolio Ministers are critical to the continued smooth running of the machinery of Government. National Security Finance and the Public Service Health & Wellness Foreign […]

Good afternoon and welcome to King’s House. This afternoon  I will  swear-in  the final set of set of  Ministers  who will serve in this  new Administration. As Ministers of State-designate you indicated your willingness to assume Portfolio responsibilities,  and to contribute to the implementation of the policy and programme objectives of the Government. Leadership, political […]

Salutations The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister Designate and The Most Honourable Mrs Holness (and Family) Floyd Morris representing the Leader of the Opposition , Dr Peter Phillips and Mrs Morris The Most Honourable Professor Sir Kenneth Hall, Former Governor-General Mr Bruce Golding, Former Prime Minister and Mrs Golding The Honourable Mr Justice Bryan […]

   My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora: Greetings!   Today we celebrate the 58th anniversary of our independence and despite the difficult context and restrictions, we have much for which to be thankful. No matter where in the world we are, our hearts still swell with pride, and a deep sense of […]

Lady Allen and I welcome you all very warmly to the grounds of King’s House this afternoon. It is a pleasure to have you again for our annual public meeting. Today we are here to celebrate the legacy of the Scouts and to: Pay respect to the Contributions of the Scout Movement which has groomed […]

My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora. For the past two weeks, our nation has been gripped by fear, panic, and uncertainty as the dreaded COVID-19 virus reached our shores.  I am using this opportunity to speak to you, not only as your Governor-General, but as a husband, father, brother, friend and concerned […]

I extend warm greetings to the clergy and members of the Boulevard Baptist Church on this the eleventh staging of the Festival of Choirs as you celebrate this significant milestone of your 50th anniversary. Your theme for this anniversary celebration “Celebrating the Journey: New Beginnings” is one recognizant that journeys do not always signify the […]

Good Evening. In 1992 when the first National Prayer Vigil took place on the grounds of King’s House Under the Distinguished Patronage of then Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke, I do not think he or the organisers could envisage that 27 years later, this service would be as relevant as that first time. I acknowledge and […]

Forty years ago, Jamaica experienced some of the most turbulent times in its modern history.  For many persons, peace was elusive and the more than 1,000 lives that were lost bore stark testimony to those frightening events.  It was out of this period of testing and trial, and the ashes of political violence that the […]

Lady Allen and I are pleased to join you on this special occasion for the people of St James. Today belongs primarily to the fifty-five faithful citizens who are about to embark on a new phase in their lives. This phase involves bringing specialized services closer to the members of your community, enabling them to […]

Greetings and welcome to this evening’s reception in honour of our  Sponsors and Stakeholders who work to make the GGPE a meaningful Initiative, achieving its objectives and impacting the target groups in a meaningful way. Thanks to the support of our Custodes and their parish Committees, the GGAA County Awards continue to unearth and recognize […]

It is my pleasure to welcome you to another I Believe Initiative Luncheon and induction of Ambassadors. At this time of the year, many people undertake a ‘Year in Review’ exercise. At the annual IBI Luncheon, I usually like to take a few minutes to reflect on the achievements and activities of the Programme. This […]

Lady Allen and I are very pleased to be with you for our Annual Youth Consultative Conference. As you know, these Conferences have become one of the highlights on the annual calendar of The Governor-General’s Social Programme. The Conference provides young people with the opportunity to share their ideas on topical issues that affect them […]

I extend warm and sincere greetings to the assembled gathering of persons who share the vision of nations united by their commitment to cooperation. The United Nations Charter, which came into force 70 years ago, is still relevant.  The Sustainable Development Goals have served to further amplify elements of the Charter and set specific targets. […]

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019 at 2;00 P.M. GRAND PALLADIUM RESORT & SPA, LUCEA, HANOVER Lady Allen and I greet you warmly, and we are very pleased to join you on this very special occasion for the people of Hanover. Today belongs primarily to the thirty-seven worthy citizens who are about to embark on a new […]

Theme: “Our Heritage … Our Legacy” It is customary and appropriate to use this occasion for remembering our National Heroes, their impact on our history, and their vision for the future.  As grateful beneficiaries of their work, we salute them again and give thanks for their contribution to our country and its ongoing development. There […]

As Grand Patron of the Jamaica Legion, it is always an honour and a privilege for me to launch the Annual Poppy Appeal. We recall at this time both the horrors of war and the courage of those who fought for freedom.  In households across the length and breadth of Jamaica, there are photographs and […]

Today is turning out to be a day of Biblical proportion. We have just arrived from Bethlehem Moravian College, an institution with a well-known Biblical name.  Now we are at another whose motto is, “A city that is set on a hill.” Therein lies the Biblical connection. The King James Version of Matthew Chapter 5 […]

Lady Allen and I welcome the opportunity to visit with you at this institution which is built on the foundations of the Church and Education. What better traditions could there be for preparing you to nurture the minds, hearts, spirits, and values of our young people? You may be interested to know that my wife […]

I join with Jamaicans from all occupations in expressing sympathy to the family of the Honourable Sameer Younis who passed yesterday, September 1, 2019. Mr. Younis will always be remembered not only for his business acumen and his professional achievements but also for his genuine concern for people, his willingness to volunteer assistance, and his […]

My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you warmly as we celebrate the 57thAnniversary of our Independence. This is a time when we reflect and give thanks for: Love Liberty Freedom and Nationhood. The theme of our Independence celebrations this year, “One Nation, One People” encapsulates the message that in spite of our differences, we must be united in […]

Lady Allen and I are pleased to welcome and host you at King’s House for this Reception in celebration of the 57th Anniversary of our Independence. During this season, as we reflect on our past, we give thanks for our freedom and nationhood for which many made sacrifices that we can be here today. The […]

Good Afternoon. According to my schedule, I should be in Kingston right now getting ready for the Annual Governor-General’s Independence Reception this evening.  However, as your Chief Scout, nothing could keep me away from being here this moment: The opening of the15th Caribbean Cuboree. I offer a special welcome to all of you gathered for […]

I take this opportunity, along with Lady Allen, to extend a warm welcome to everyone here at King’s House who has come to support and witness the swearing-in of Mr Garfield Green to the Office of Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of Manchester. Mr Green’s appointment follows that of Custos Sally Porteous who has efficiently […]

Former Prime Minister the Most Honorable Edward Philip George Seaga, ON, PC, was one of the principal architects of Jamaica’s post-Independence governmental structure.  His long list of achievements in national and political leadership, enlightened policy development, and efficient implementation, marked him as a strategic thinker and man of action. Mr. Seaga evoked strong responses from […]

Lady Allen joins me this morning in greeting each one of you and saying to our ‘Diasporans’, “Welcome Home!” We are pleased to have our citizens back where your “navel string is buried”, to use the Jamaican parlance– either figuratively or literally. Alternatively, if you prefer a more delicate anatomical reference, “Home is where the […]

Lady Allen and I are pleased to share with Mr. & Mrs. Foster, members of the Foster family, members of the FosRich Family, and this select gathering as we join in celebrating twenty-five years of growth and success. You have called upon me to speak immediately after not only a sumptuous meal but also after […]

I am joined by Lady Allen in expressing pleasure to be here for the first in the series of annual presentation ceremonies for The Governor-General’s Achievement Awards (GGAA). For the past 28 years, we have recognized deserving individuals from all walks of life across all Parishes. These Awards focus on stimulating excellence in three categories: […]

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to King’s House for this annual Dinner for the Diplomatic Corps. On each such occasion, it has always been a pleasure for me to receive the distinguished High Commissioners and Ambassadors, both those resident in Kingston and those based in other countries in the Region. Like you, […]

I welcome you to King’s House and this ceremony for the presentation of Credentials. Your Excellencies, I extend a very warm welcome to Jamaica. We assure you that your assignment to our country is a reminder of your country’s interest and a recognition of our value in international relations. We know there are practical reasons […]

Good afternoon and a special welcome to King’s House for the celebration of Commonwealth Day 2019. I will now read the Message from Her Majesty The Queen, Head of the Commonwealth: Commonwealth Day has a special significance this year as we mark the 70th anniversary of the London Declaration, when nations of the Commonwealth agreed […]

Ten (10) years ago today, I took the Oath of Office as Governor-General. It has been an interesting journey. I have met many people, made new friends, had varying experiences and learned a lot during these past years. Lady Allen and I have visited all Custodes in their respective Parishes and seen you at work. […]

Good afternoon. I saw a quote credited to Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of United States President, Frederick Delano Roosevelt, which said that ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’. This afternoon we have gathered to share in the grand opening of the S Hotel, and celebrate with a man who […]

Lady Allen and I are pleased to be back in Spanish Town where we have pleasant memories of the time working here and making lasting friendships. I consider it a privilege to be a part of the 200th anniversary celebration of the historic Phillippo Baptist Church. You do not need to be reminded of the […]

Good afternoon. I saw a quote credited to Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of United States President, Frederick Delano Roosevelt, which said that ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’. This afternoon we have gathered to share in the grand opening of the S Hotel, and celebrate with a man who […]

“Rekindling Hope” Fellow Jamaicans, at home and abroad, I greet you warmly and wish for you a bright, prosperous and Happy New Year! It does not seem like a year since we were ushering in 2018, but we cannot hold back the hands of time. Last year had its fair spread of high points and […]

My fellow Jamaicans at home and abroad, We celebrate another Christmas as a nation, and we are grateful for the reminders of the power of peace and goodwill in shaping our lives. Christmas is a time that brings together families, friends, and communities, in thanksgiving and celebration, for the gifts and blessings we have received […]

INTRODUCTION Lady Allen and I are very pleased to be with you for today’s Youth Consultative Conference. I welcome you wholeheartedly coming in from the 14 parishes. When I launched the “I Believe Initiative” in 2011 and convened the 1st Youth Consultative Conference in November of that year, little did I know that these Conferences […]

Lady joins me in thanking you for the warm welcome to The Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show 2018. From a small, promising beginning in 1952, this Annual National and International Event has become a major feature of our Independence Celebrations. Allow me to say special thanks to the Custos Rotulorum of Clarendon, the Honourable […]

Fellow Jamaicans and our friends at home and abroad, I greet you warmly as we mark the celebration of our fifty-sixth year as an independent nation. Our journey since Independence has been eventful, challenging at times, exhilarating at other times, but always enriched by the proud achievements of the past and the promise of a […]

Good afternoon Preamble I am very pleased to occupy the position of Visitor of this University as it allows me to be identified with an institution which has not only cemented its place on the landscape of the nation, but: Is producing work-ready graduates. Is the first and only university in the English-speaking Caribbean to […]

Introduction In preparing to speak to you young men, today, I wondered really what my contribution should be. What do I say to you graduands achieving this milestone and hopefully continuing the journey to another milestone. I settled on a conversation, that I know should not exceed 10 minutes, because I am aware that in […]

Greetings. It is a real pleasure, for me to be joining you in the garden parish on this beautiful summer afternoon. My only regret is that Lady, for good reason, is not with us to enjoy the splendor of nature’s bounty. Please allow me the privilege to recognize some of our special guests, including: Host […]

Good Morning everyone SALUTATIONS The Most Honourable Andrew Holness – Prime Minister Dr. Peter Phillips – Leader of the Opposition The Honourable Thomas Tavares – Finson – President of the Senate The Honourable Mr. Justice Bryan Sykes – Chief Justice-designate Members of the Cabinet The Hon. Mr. Justice Dennis Morrison – President of the Court […]

SALUTATIONS: The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister and the Most Honourable Mrs. Holness Honourable Mr. Justice Bryan Sykes, Chief Justice (Acting) and Dr. Sykes Senator the Honourable Tom Tavares Finson, President of the Senate and Mrs. Tavares Finson Your Excellencies: The Dean and Members of the Diplomatic Corps The Most Hon. Sir Kenneth Hall, […]

SALUTATIONS (TBC): Your Excellencies Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen Lady Allen joins me in welcoming each one of you to King’s House this morning. Your Excellencies, through this brief ceremony for the presentation of credentials we hope to make you feel right at home in Jamaica where we say, no problem man! We want to assure you […]

Good morning! I am pleased to begin the best month of the year by welcoming each one of you to King’s House to participate in and witness this significant event – the transition of leadership in the Judiciary, the third branch of government. Before I invite His Honor, Justice Sykes to take the Oath of […]

Good morning. As Patron of the NLPB, I extend to you my warmest greetings, and my appreciation for your attendance and participation in this year’s function. I also wish for each one of you a happy, healthy and fulfilling new year. 2018 is the 38th iteration of the NLPB service for Leaders.  I think many […]

SALUTATIONS (TBC) Dr. David Stair – Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of Hanover Michelle Pinnock – Regional Director, Ministry of Education Hyacinth Shakes-Warren – Chairperson of the School Board, Green Island High Maxine Evans – Principal, Green Island High School Members of Academic and Administrative Staff Ladies and gentlemen Students   Good afternoon! I am […]

SALUTATIONS Dr. David Stair – Custos Rotulorum for the Parish of Hanover Reverend Don Lewis – Board Chairman, Chester Castle All-Age and Infant School Tiffany Grant-Smith – Principal Teachers and other members of staff Distinguished guests Ladies and gentlemen Students Good morning to you all. Preamble Boys and girls how are you? (Wait for response) […]

Good afternoon, Lady Allen and I are very pleased to be here to celebrate with you on this occasion, the opening of your first premium grocery operation, Select Grocers. Select Grocers is the manifestation of hard work, determination, focus and a keen commitment to unleashing that entrepreneurial drive necessary to unlock the growth-potential of our […]

My fellow Jamaicans, at home and abroad, and friends of Jamaica.  Lady Allen and I join with you as we celebrate our fifty-fifth year as an independent nation. Local and world events during the past twelve months have reminded us of the need to value the traditions and legacies of our past.  We should use […]

Good afternoon, Lady Allen and I are very pleased to be with you for this special event in your programme this week.  We extend a warm welcome home to our people from the Diaspora. Let me join in the welcome to that which has already been expressed.  I can assure you that it is no […]

SALUTATIONS The Honourable Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Members of the Cabinet, Senator The Honourable Tom Tavares Finson, President of the Senate The Most Hon. P.J. Patterson – Former Prime Minister, Your Excellencies and Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Mr. Wickham McNeil – Member of Parliament Honourable Custodes and Spouses The […]

SALUTATIONS (TBC) Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Your Worship the Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Delroy Williams, Captain Christopher Hughes – Logos Hope and Team, Members of the Clergy, Other Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,   Good morning.   Introduction Lady Allen and I are delighted to be here to extend our welcome to the international […]

SALUTATIONS Members of the Clergy Mrs. Jean Lowrie-Chin – Chairperson, Digicel Foundation Ms. Krystal Tomlinson – Public relations and Engagement Manager, DIgicel Foundation (and Master of Ceremonies) Winners and Participants in the Digicel Face of Change Competition Ladies and gentlemen Young people   Good morning I hardly need to restate how much Our Governor-General The […]

Greetings!   I must, at the outset, thank my friend and prayer partner, Robert Levy for his incredible and infectious love and commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, and who has impacted my life in a profound way, as a brave disciple of the Lord.   A ‘im come aks mi to be patron fi […]

Good morning!   I am pleased to be here with you on this very special occasion in the midst of your celebration of- the 70th Anniversary of Knox College!    I applaud the Board of Management, principals, staff and students – past and present – for inspiring that limitless optimism in the present and aspiring […]

A warm Christian greeting to you.   I thank your Administration for the kind invitation to attend, and the opportunity to address, your 5th Believer’s Convention and the 167th Annual General Assembly. I am very appreciative of your warm Christian welcome.     Please allow me the opportunity to extend to your Administrator and General […]

Their Excellencies the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen and the Most Hon. Lady Allen (front row, fifth & sixth left), Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, with members of the Diplomatic Corps at the annual Diplomatic Dinner held at King’s House on February 9, 2017. Lady Allen and […]

Good Morning,   As I greet you this morning, I begin by thanking all the participants, the organizers and the national governments, Jamaican and Canadian, and other governments, past and present, for making this event possible.   We take note, ladies and gentlemen, of the international partnerships which have led us to this point. They […]

Good morning,   It is for me, as Patron of the Jamaica Society for the Blind, a real pleasure to be with you this morning and to make a few remarks before we open this building.   Firstly, let us thank God and commend the Directors and members of the Society for bringing to fruition […]

A pleasant morning,   I greet you all this morning conscious of the rich history of this National Leadership Prayer Breakfast, not only as a significant event in our national calendar, but also as an institution. We may question whether the objectives of this annual New Year event have always been consistently met. What is […]

My fellow Jamaicans:   Happy New Year! 2017 is the year when our country celebrates 55 years of nationhood. We stand today at a place, when the challenges and sacrifices of the recent years, have given us the confidence to achieve the goals of our national development plan. We have every reason to believe, that […]

My Fellow Jamaicans:   Lady Allen and I greet you very warmly today as we celebrate once more the joys of the Christmas Season. We do so, reminding ourselves of our collective need to maintain that all-encompassing duty of care.    Caring and Sharing During the Season    It is an accepted feature of the […]

It is a real pleasure to be with you here in my native/home parish of Portland, for the 24th Annual National Prayer Vigil, in this beautiful Christ Church in Port Antonio. Our vigil for Justice, Unity, Peace and Healing, has this year taken us to one of the most peaceful places in Jamaica – this […]

Good afternoon   It is my pleasure to welcome each of you to the Annual IBI Ambassadors Luncheon, the final event on our annual calendar of activities, in this the fifth year of the I Believe Initiative. Let me at the outset express special thanks to Mr. Christopher Issa, IBI Ambassador, and the management of […]

Good morning! Lady joins me in welcoming each of you to the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards (GGAA) Pinning Ceremony, which brings the curtain down on the GGAA twenty-fifth Anniversary Celebrations. This event recognizes the admirable achievements of the yearly recipients of the GGAA and welcomes them into the “Distinguished League” of an illustrious tradition of excellence. […]

I greet you this morning in deep sadness, but in a spirit of solidarity with you as the entire Jamaica College community continues to deal with tragedy.   One does not use the word lightly in a situation such as this:    • For the parents of Nicholas Francis, nothing that is said or done […]

I greet you very warmly and commend the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) for spearheading this service to mark the beginning of Heritage Week 2016. We gather here this morning to worship God – thank Him for the self-sacrificing love and labour of our Heroes, with the hope that the legacy of courage can be […]

Introduction   This morning is the realization of one aspect of a broad vision I had to partner with various stakeholders in building hope, confidence, a heightened sense of purpose, and sound values in Jamaican families, youth and education. It feels like only yesterday when the Summer of Service (SOS) aspect of the vision, which […]

Lady Allen and I thank you for your warm welcome. As you may be aware, the role of Governor-General is executed under three components: Constitutional, Ceremonial and Community. The Constitutional and Ceremonial duties command significant attention, but I always welcome the opportunity that the Community functions afford me to engage Jamaicans from all walks of […]

Ladies and gentlemen, Their Excellencies, the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen are unable to be here for the 64th staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show. The pleasure is mine as Deputy Governor-General, and also someone with very close ties to the agriculture sector to address you this afternoon.   […]

My fellow Jamaicans, at home and abroad, I greet you warmly as we mark the fifty fourth anniversary of our Independence. This is a day of celebration and reflection as we look back, but also as we look ahead and commit ourselves to the further advancement of our beloved nation.   This year we are […]

‘Inspiring Individuals, Building Stronger Communities’   Thank you for joining Lady Allen and me for the Governor-General’s Achievement Award (GGAA) for the County of Cornwall, to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the 2016 recipients.   This celebration is quite significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of this seminal award.   We commenced the […]

Good morning!   My task this morning is to welcome you all to King’s House for the launch of the New Employment Opportunities (NEO) for Youth in Jamaica project. Your presence this morning assures me that there are entities and individuals with whom I can resonate in my passion for youth development. Indeed, you help […]

Good evening!   I am very pleased to be with you this evening in the coolest and happiest parish of Jamaica. Regrettably, Lady Allen is unable to join us and has sent her regards for a wonderful function.   This annual fundraising dinner for which we are gathered makes my visit even more satisfying, knowing that […]

  BUILDING A PARTNERSHIP FOR PROSPERITY    His Excellency Sir Patrick Allen delivers the 2016 Throne Speech at the Opening of Parliament at Gordon House on April 14, 2016. Honourable Members of the Senate,  House of Representatives,  I now present my Government’s Plans and Programmes for the Financial Year 2016/2017:     Members of the Houses […]

Good evening,                                                                                              Lady Allen and I are very pleased […]

Good morning, I am very pleased to be joining you, this morning, in my capacity as Deputy Governor-General, to execute this auspicious duty of swearing-in our four judges to higher offices within our Courts. These appointments speak to the hard work these Judges have done over the years, and is the basis on which they […]

Lady Allen joins me in welcoming each of you to King’s House for this very important ceremony to swear in new Ministers of Government.  I extend a special welcome to those of you who have joined us via electronic media. This afternoon we continue the process of forming a new government after the general election, […]

Governor-General, Sir Patrick Allen (left), presents the Instrument of Appointment to Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, during Thursday’s (March 3, 2016) swearing in ceremony, at King’s House. Photo Credit: JIS A very good afternoon to you. Lady Allen joins me in extending a warm greeting and welcome to each one of you at […]

Good afternoon, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for joining Lady Allen and me for today’s luncheon. We appreciate this opportunity to show our appreciation for the work that you are doing in your respective parishes and for the impact it is having on nation building.   I extend a warm welcome […]

A pleasant morning, Kindly accept warm greetings and best wishes for a happy new year from Lady and myself, and allow me to convey Lady’s apology for absence at this morning’s function.  The role of the patron on this high morning  is firstly to thank you for supporting and attending this prayer breakfast, which propels […]

  Pleasant afternoon, Thank you for joining us here at King’s House for this important ceremony to hand-over a fleet of ambulances to St. John compliment of the Japanese Government. This occasion is a clear indication of the great relations between our two nations and underscores the fact that, People of goodwill are those who […]

His Excellency The Governor-General The Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J Good afternoon — Happy New Year, As a former teacher, principal and Board Chair, it is a pleasure for me to be sharing some thoughts with you this afternoon, in the capacity as your guest speaker. I deem this conference, focused […]

His Excellency The Governor-General The Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J Lady joins me this morning in welcoming each one of you to King’s House for this Swearing-in Ceremony. Our gathering this morning is my first official order of business for the year 2016 and it is indeed a pleasure to Swear- […]

His Excellency The Governor-General The Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J My fellow Jamaicans, Happy New Year! The dawning of a new year is always a good time to review the past and draw on the lessons learnt, to chart the way forward.  This New Year, no doubt, will come with its […]

  His Excellency The Governor-General The Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KSt.J My fellow Jamaicans, I extend warm greetings to you at this very special time of year when we gather to celebrate the holiday and fellowship with our family and friends.  My welcome is extended to those of you who have […]

  Good evening… It is my absolute pleasure to serve as patron of the National Prayer Vigil and to share with you again on this occasion when we join hands in solidarity and humility to pray. I think this occasion would allow me to join the angel’s proclamation…  This is the 23rd year that we […]

  If I were asked to identify an experience that has had the greatest impact on my life, the answer would unhesitatingly be:  Education and in particular – Christian Education. Today, I share some thoughts with you on: · The value of education. · The value of  Christian education, and,  · Why an institution like […]

  His Excellency the Governor-General deeply regrets his absence from this morning’s awards ceremony of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Heritage Essay and Poster Competitions. He has prior speaking engagements, and has therefore accorded me the very special privilege to speak on his behalf. The Message Each year I look forward to being at this […]

  It is my pleasure, this morning, to welcome each one of you here to King’s House for the swearing-in of Mrs. Justice Almarie Sinclair- Haynes, who is being appointed and sworn in to serve as a judge in the Court of Appeal.   I see, preemptively, in the papers that she is already proclaimed […]

  A pleasant morning to you all,     I am pleased to swear-in, this moring, the Honourable Donna Parchment- Brown as Political Ombudsman. You no doubt are observing the times and know what must be done; the increased political activities which presumably will end in general election, hence the need for this morning’s ceremony […]

The Hon. Donna Parchment Brown, CD. JP, Jamaica’s Political Ombudsman. “My duty as of today is to help political candidates to fulfill their individual and organizational aspirations through adherence of law and rules of engagement to which they will give their pledge.  I stand ready to be an advocate, mediator and arbitrator for safe conduct […]

  Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen, I join you this morning in this celebration of excellence. This seminal event will be used to articulate the value placed on effective school leadership and to highlight that the country needs principals such as Dr. Bailey, Mr. Reid, Mrs. Reid, Mr. Rowe, Mrs. Foster and Mrs. Chambers who […]

As we observe Heritage Week and celebrate National Heroes Day, let us tune our minds to the strength of that inner spirit which inspired the courage in our forefathers who were unwavering in their fight against oppression. Certainly, our heritage is rooted in the accounts of the valour of our founding fathers whose courage, perseverance […]

  Lady Allen and I welcome the opportunity to be with you this afternoon and are encouraged by the accomplishments of our 2015 Governor-General’s Achievement Awardees for the County of Surrey.   We celebrate these successes along with your families, friends and well-wishers.   Our awardees sheer sense of volunteerism, community involvement, and educational achievement […]

  I am pleased to be sharing in their accomplishment and the joy being experienced by the PROComm family, friends and trade associates, as you launch the newest addition to your business portfolio, PRODev.  Let me also use this opportunity to acknowledge the presence of Mrs. Maisie Lowrie, the matriarch from whom her daughter Mrs. […]

It is a pleasure for me to welcome you to this morning’s ceremony to swear in eleven judges who will serve in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.  While you were on summer break we filled a vacancy in the Court of Appeal. The Honourable Mr. Justice Dennis Morrison was appointed to act […]

Lady Allen and I are grateful that you could join us in this brief ceremony to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen, who today became the longest serving monarch in British and English History, reigning for sixty-three years, seven months and two days.     We welcome you to King’s House and to this function.   […]

Lady Allen and I are pleased to be here to celebrate with the families, friends and well-wishers of the fourteen 2015 Governor-General Achievement Awardees for Middlesex County. Your purpose and presence here can only be matched with the pride and joy we feel for our athlete’s performance in the IAAF Champions on in Beijing. Also, […]

I am pleased to see you out today with the enthralling World Championships on in Beijing, China. The stellar performance of our athletes and the indomitable run by Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in the 100 metres on Sunday and Monday is a reflection of the resilient Jamaican spirit that we foster in our various […]

  I greet you warmly and welcome you to this afternoon’s installation ceremony for the Honourable Errol Vaughan Johnson as Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St. Mary. As you are aware Mr. Johnson has acted as Custos for some time. His appointment however follows the passing of former Custos the Hon. Jeffrey McKitty who […]

  I greet you warmly and welcome the opportunity that has been afforded to us to publicly congratulate my friend and brother, Archbishop of Kingston the Most Reverend the Hon. Charles Dufour, as he marks forty-five years as an ordained Priest in the Roman Catholic Church.     Despite his many achievements and accolades acquired during […]

  The growth, reach and accomplishments of the St. Ann Homecoming and Heritage Foundation are testimony of your relevance and hard work. Over the past 11 years, you have held firm to your objective to instill pride in the young people of this parish, and the wider Jamaica, by educating them about the heritage of […]

Lady Allen and I are very pleased to celebrate with the families, friends and well-wishers of the thirteen 2015 Governor-General Achievement Awardees for the County of Cornwall. It is very refreshing to have you here this afternoon to celebrate what is right with Jamaica even though there is so much concern and grief over the […]

I am pleased to join the RJR 94 FM family in your 65th birthday anniversary celebration and I congratulate you for keeping this nation ‘tuned’ to wholesome radio programming over those years.  Your sterling contribution to the development of the radio broadcasting landscape in our country has made your brand a benchmark for broadcasting standards.  As you […]

Good afternoon! Lady Allen and I are very pleased that you are here to participate in the 6th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference. In fact, we look forward to the interaction with you who have come from the several overseas regions in a clear demonstration that wherever you may roam, Jamaica is your home, as one […]

A very good afternoon to you all! It is good to be sharing with you in this inspiring worship service designed for the graduation of Teachers who are going to be agents of positive transformation ant teachers who are unafraid of the future.  They know they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them, […]

Good Afternoon and a special welcome to King’s House for the celebration of Commonwealth Day 2015. I will now read a message from the Queen, Head of the Commonwealth: One simple lesson from history is that when people come together to talk, to exchange ideas and to develop common goals, wonderful things can happen. So […]

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Someone once said that “The accomplice to the crime of corruption is frequently our own indifference.”   No doubt everyone in this room agrees with that. Societies develop a culture based on their way of life and regrettably, that culture could also work as a barrier to […]

Good morning to everyone and welcome to King’s House for the fourth Jamaica Information Service Heritage Competition Awards Ceremony.  After what I heard was a keenly contested competition the winners will be rewarded today. This annual competition staged by the JIS is commendable for several reasons: It motivates our young people to conduct their own […]

His Excellency The Governor-General has entrusted to me the pleasant task of welcoming you to historic King’s House! Unfortunately, your Patrons Their Excellencies The Governor-General and the Most Hon.  Lady Allen, are engaged in matters which prevent them from sharing in this moment.  They asked that I convey their regrets and mine is the honour […]

As Chief Scout I am pleased to welcome each of you to the annual public meeting. Each year I look forward to receiving you at King’s House and I am always pleased to see evidence of the mentoring and the training being undertaken by the organization’s leaders reflected in the conduct of our young Scouts. […]

Lady Allen and I extend to you a very warm welcome to King’s House for this Annual Diplomatic Dinner, which has become the focal point of Jamaica’s Diplomatic Week.  We look forward each year to hosting our esteemed Diplomatic Corps. This evening’s activity is in tribute to your role in strengthening our collaboration for the […]

Although January is almost ending, it is the first time that I am seeing some of you since 2015 started and so I am pleased to extend to you all my very best wishes. My hope is that 2015 will be a very satisfying and productive year in which effective team work and partnerships will […]

This gathering in the National Arena is rightly called a Festival because we are here to celebrate the freedom of religion and belief we Jamaicans are enjoying. This is a fundamental human right enshrined in our Constitution. We do not take this lightly, especially as we know that millions of people across the world are […]

I greet you warmly and wish for each of you a very happy New Year. Let me add my own commendation to Mr. Richard Powell and the Victoria Mutual family for 30 years of unbroken support for the annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast.  They have stood firm and were not weary in well-doing! Each year […]

NOVEMBER 15, 2014 “REHABILITATION: THE WAY FORWARD” A very good evening to you all. It is good to look around this hall and see so many well-known faces, which makes me very pleased that I was able to accept Mr. Gordon’s invitation to be here with you tonight. Many of you- if not all- would […]

It is good to see all of you here this evening! You are most welcome at King’s House for Family Life Ministries’ 30th Anniversary Banquet, of which I am Patron. Accepting Dr. Davidson’s request for me to serve as Patron and for the Banquet to be hosted here was an easy decision. This is so […]

Good Morning to you all! Last year, the Hon. Anthony Hylton and his team gave me an excellent briefing on the Global Logistics Hub. This piqued my interest in exploring how youth could best be prepared not only for employment in the businesses to be generated, but also for creating related business opportunities. Add to […]

A very good afternoon to you all! This is our final GGAA County Ceremony for 2014 and I stand before you filled with pride, knowing that: We are recognizing twelve more individuals who are guided by our national song- serving our homeland with humility without the expectation of reward; We have well-thinking Jamaicans who see […]

I welcome you warmly to King’s House for this ceremony which speaks volumes about the tremendous contribution that women are making to the justice system in our country. We are met this morning for the swearing in of eight female jurists to higher position in the Judiciary. Chief Justice, I know that this does not […]

Good afternoon. The images that readily come to mind when one thinks of the Royal Air Forces Wings Appeal are usually associated with the Battle of Britain, when RAF soldiers stopped the German Luftwaffe’s bombing campaign and turned the tide of the 2nd World War. Those RAF heroes included Jamaicans and others from the then […]

Greetings in the name of our Lord! September 13, 1834: Forty three days after the abolition of slavery and the beginning of the apprenticeship system, the Gleaner had its first publication. The former slave masters at that time received a compensation of £20 million. The newly freed slaves received nothing but a nominal emancipation in […]

Good afternoon to you all! We have just heard the very shocking news of the passing of the Hon. Roger Clarke. Having already observed a moment of silence, kindly allow me to express my sincerest condolences on his passing. I also ask that you all pray for his family during this very difficult period. On […]

Remembrance for The Most Honourable Sir Howard Felix Hanlan Cooke National Heroes Day, October 2005, at the Award of Honours, Lady Cooke whispered to me – “Howard will be 90 next month – but believe me, the man is no ordinary 90.” There was no need to enquire what she meant.   For by any test […]

Good Afternoon, In 1986, His Excellency the late Sir Florizel Glasspole presented to this proud battalion its new Queen’s and Regimental Colours as a potent reminder of the values which the Officers and Men had internalized in their commitment to honourable and devoted service. In that ceremony on Thursday July 31, twenty eight years ago, […]

A very good afternoon to all of you! “There is nothing wrong with Jamaica that cannot be fixed by what is right with Jamaica.” This mantra of the “I Believe” Initiative, which is the theme for this ceremony, reflects my conviction that Jamaicans possess the innate skills and abilities which can transform our country into […]

A very Good Afternoon to you all! When I received your Principal’s letter inviting me to speak at this valedictory ceremony, the first thing that grabbed my attention is your school’s Mission: “To transform boys into ‘men of might’ by imparting values, attitudes and quality education that prepare and empower them to optimally function in […]

JUNE 12, 2014 Greetings! I am pleased that all of you have taken the time to attend this RADA Open Day. Let me first recognize Minister Roger Clarke for his very encouraging participation in the Budget Debate. Minister, all of us who have agriculture at heart must have welcomed his report on the sector’s performance […]

JUNE 12, 2014 A Very Good Morning to you all! This is my first visit to the Sydney Pagon Agricultural High School and unfortunately, it will be my last.  As our Chairman and Member of Parliament just mentioned, your school will have a new name in a few months. In another few months, this school […]

A very good evening to all of you who are helping to make history at King’s House today!  Together we are met to formalize the designation of Professor the Honourable Mervyn Morris as Jamaica’s first officially proclaimed Poet Laureate. I am pleased that the history of this Hall which has been the site of so […]

MAY 13, 2014 It’s good to be in Highgate for this event which proves that there is growth in St. Mary. This afternoon, we congratulate Mrs. Patricia Smith and the team from the First Regional who have achieved their dream of establishing a branch in Highgate. This town is growing as a commercial centre in […]

“EMBRACE THE FUTURE“ I extend greetings to every one of you and a warm welcome to everyone in particular, our overseas guests who are visiting our island paradise for the first time.  If this is your first “taste of Jamaica”, I hope that it will be enough to entice you to visit our country again.I’m […]

April 16, 2014 Good afternoon to you all. Occasions such as this not only permit us to acknowledge and express appreciation for the sterling service of the one being honoured. They also prompt each one of us to contemplate and evaluate our own stewardship and be inspired by the exemplary life of the Honouree. As […]

MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2014 I greet you warmly this morning! It is always my pleasure to welcome all of you to King’s House for this brief ceremony in which I shall swear-in five experienced professionals to act at higher levels in the Supreme and Appeals Courts. My heartiest congratulations to: The Honourable Mrs. Justice Carol […]

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014   I am pleased to be here in the sunshine community of Portmore to share in this year’s launch of the I Pledge Programme and also Reading Week.  I also look forward to interacting with the grade five students following this opening ceremony. Commendations are due to Grace Kennedy Money Services, […]

March 28, 2014 A very good morning to every one of you! As Patron of the Respect Agenda Programme, I am pleased to welcome you to King’s House for this ceremony which will formally confirm seventy five professionals as National Mentors in this Programme. I would like to commend you, National Mentors, for having pledged […]

March 27, 2014 A very Good Afternoon and warm greetings to you all! This afternoon, Lady Allen and I are pleased to be here for the installation of the Honourable Beryl Rochester as the first female Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St. Elizabeth. St. Elizabeth is very special to all of us for several […]

March 25, 2014 Most of you might know that as Governor-General I am an Honorary Member of various service Clubs. I do not get distracted by the difference in Mottos and Symbols, as there is one unifying feature which cements my attachment to each and that is, their undeniable commitment to altruistic service. Tonight as […]

March 21, 2014 Good Morning to you all. Lady Allen and I are pleased to welcome you all to King’s House.  We are even more pleased for this occasion on which we have gathered to Launch “Parenting Jamaica”. In 2011, we decided that the Family would be one of the three Pillars for our I […]

I wish to most sincerely thank the executive of the St Mary Run/ Walk Committee for their invitation for me to be patron of the inaugural staging of the run/walk/2k/14 under the theme “Highway For Health And Education“. Health and education are two of the most critical elements in the total development of our nation […]

March 21, 2014 Good Morning to you all! I am happy to be here at the School’s Inaugural Founders’ Day Ceremony.  In spite of my hectic schedule, I am delighted for the opportunity to share with you even if it is for a brief moment. This month marks Intellectual Disability Awareness month, and today, March […]

March 7, 2014 I extend heartiest congratulations to the Girls’ Brigade as you commemorate ninety years of service to our nation. Over this period, you have engaged our young girls in the quest to realize their full potential and to achieve their goals. Our young people have taken great strides towards realizing Marcus Garvey’s prediction […]

MARCH 9, 2014 Good Morning to you all! It is indeed my pleasure to be here this morning at the Annual District Retreat of the Inner Wheel Clubs here in Jamaica.  My hectic schedule does not allow me to be with you as often as I would like, but I am delighted when the opportunity […]

March 6, 2014 A very good morning to you all! Lady Allen and I warmly endorse the welcome already extended by Ambassador Coye.  Permit me, though, to recognize friends of the “I Believe” Initiative, and in a special way, James and Manuela Goren, who are visiting King’s House for the first time.  The Goren’s opened […]

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 27, 2014 Good afternoon. Lady and I are pleased that you could join us today and you to the function to honour our Custodes.  I extend a special welcome to our newly appointed Custodes and their spouses, who are joining us at our annual Custodes Luncheon for the very first time: The Honourable […]

A very afternoon to you all! Thank you so much for inviting me to speak on behalf of Shauna Fuller Clarke’s BASE Foundation.  My husband, the Governor General has asked me to convey to you his well wishes and his hope that this will be an unforgettable, successful event. I want to speak with you […]

FEBRUARY 23, 2014 Today, we conclude our celebration of Founder’s Week which commemorates the birth of Lord Robert Baden-Powell.  He wrote a book entitled “Scouting for Boys” inspired this worldwide movement. This book inspired the late Rev. J.W. Graham to bring scouting to Jamaica in 1910.  It was the same year in which Lord Robert […]

FEBRUARY 20, 2014 Ladies and Gentlemen. A very Good Afternoon to you all! Lady Allen and I warmly welcome you to King’s House for our annual Public Meeting of the Scout Association of Jamaica, an important activity to mark Founder’s Week.  We always value every opportunity to interact with the youth of our country, who […]

FEBRUARY 1, 2014 Ladies and gentlemen When I launched the I Believe Initiative in 2011 I had the vision of stirring my fellow Jamaicans into believing that we should not be limited by perception, that within ourselves we are great people possessing the God-given talent to succeed at any task. I hoped that we who […]

KING’S HOUSE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2014 AT 10:00 A.M I welcome each of you to King’s House for the launch of the University of Birmingham/Jamaica National Foundation Legacy Scholarship.  We reserve a very special welcome to Professor Edward Peck, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, with whom we met during our own visit to […]

FEBRUARY 13, 2014 A very Good Morning to you! It is indeed my pleasure to welcome all, not only on my behalf but also on Lady Allen’s behalf,  to King’s House. It is my hope that this morning’s experience will be positive and inspiring for all present, in particular the students. Although this is the […]

KING’S HOUSE THURSDAY, 6 FEBRUARY 2014 Good evening! Lady Allen and I are very pleased to welcome you to King’s House for the Annual Diplomatic Dinner.   For those of you who are here for the first time, we reserve a very special welcome to our island home.  We would like to express how appreciative we […]

FEBRUARY 3, 2014 – 3.00pm Your Excellencies Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen Lady Allen and I bid you a very warm welcome to King’s House to this brief ceremony for the presentation of the Credentials by three Heads of Missions who are resident overseas.  As we greet the Ambassador of Israel and the High Commissioner for […]

FEBRUARY 3, 2014 (Morning Ceremony) Your Excellencies Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen Lady Allen and I bid you a very warm welcome to King’s House to this brief ceremony for the presentation of the Credentials by Heads of Missions who are resident overseas.   The warmth is especially extended to those of you who have been suffering […]

JANUARY 23, 2014 A few months ago the Rev. Dr John Keane called on me to introduce me to his book “I Promise” and we had an uplifting discussion! We exchanged views on the biblical undergirding of the values and virtues reflected in Jamaica’s National Pledge, and were in complete agreement that, if: a half […]

THURSDAY JANUARY 16, 2014 I greet you warmly, as we fellowship at this the 34th annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast.  I am very thankful that I have this opportunity again to greet you.  I wish for each of you in this hall and indeed for all Jamaica, peace, joy and prosperity in our homes and […]

January 14, 2014 It is indeed my pleasure to be here this morning at the launch of Sagicor’s Sigma Corporate Run 2014.  Although the year is already two weeks old, I am using this opportunity to extend to all present, your staff and your family members, my best wishes for a year that is filled […]

MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2014 Good Morning to you all! I join with Ambassador Coye in welcoming you to King’s House and our very best wishes to you for a happy, peaceful, healthy and prosperous New Year.  We have all experienced 2013, we can use that experience to strengthen our resolve to successfully go through this […]

DECEMBER 17, 2013   Good Morning to you all! Lady Allen and I thank you for your warm welcome to the Annotto Bay Hospital.   We always enjoy when official duties take us outside of Kingston and provide us with an occasion to meet Jamaicans of all walks of life and to see first-hand about the […]

SPANISH COURT HOTEL, DECEMBER 11, 2013 A year ago, when we launched the “I Believe” Ambassadors, we had all been greatly motivated by the impact of the 2012 Youth Consultative Conferences.  The new group of Ambassadors had all played a significant role in the three conferences where you either served as presenters or facilitators.  You […]

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2013 Tonight as we gather for the 21st National Prayer Vigil, Lady Allen and I are pleased to unite with other believers here in St. Elizabeth, to once again lift up Jamaica before the Lord. It is the assurance of the power of prayer which inspires our participation in this prayer service […]

NOVEMBER 29, 2013 Ladies and Gentlemen A very good morning to you all! It is good to see such a gathering of bright, alert students, together with their parents and teachers for this special JIS Heritage Essay Competition Awards Ceremony. As you were told earlier, the JIS is celebrating its 50th Anniversary, which is what […]

NOVEMBER 28, 2013   Ladies and Gentlemen Thank you for your very warm welcome. I am very happy to share in this landmark occasion in the history of The Mico and I am indeed honoured to have been asked to be your keynote speaker. If there is one thing, apart from my faith, which inspires […]

NOVEMBER 14, 2013 Ladies and Gentlemen, In this hall we have had the pleasure and privilege of welcoming many Presidents and of celebrating the friendship between their respective country and ours. Yet that elation, that sense of having built stronger bridges of friendship and of being part of a thrust towards deeper, mutually beneficial relations, […]

THURSDAY OCTOBER 10, 2013 Good Afternoon to you all. I greet you warmly and thank you for joining us in this important ceremony for the installation of the Hon. Lincoln Thaxter as Custos Rotulorum for the parish of Portland.  As most, if not all, of you would know, this installation follows a small swearing-in ceremony […]

WHISPERING BAMBOO COVE RESORT, ST THOMAS SEPTEMBER 26, 2013   Good Afternoon to you all! Lady Allen and I are pleased to be with you at the third and final Governor-General Achievement Awards county ceremonies for 2013 here in St. Thomas to celebrate the achievement of four citizens. Our celebration is enhanced by the beautiful […]

SEPTEMBER 25, 2013 A warm greeting to each one of you and a special welcome to Jamaica to those who are visiting especially for the first time. This evening has certainly been an inspiring evening, especially after having heard Mr. Sethi speak about the spectacular achievements of CIPLA and how this company plans to make […]

KING’S HOUSE THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2013 Good morning. It is a pleasure for me to host members of the Royal Air Forces Association of Jamaica as you launch your annual Wings Appeal fund-raiser ahead of a week of activities to mark the Battle of Britain which was waged in 1940, when British and Commonwealth forces […]

KING’S HOUSE MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2013 Lady Allen joins me in extending a very warm welcome to King’s House and to thank everyone for your presence at this investiture ceremony.  Lord Prior of the Order of St. John, Professor Anthony Mellows and Mrs. Mellows, I am especially pleased to welcome you to Jamaica and to […]

Good Afternoon to you all! Here we are once again at the Denbigh…to celebrate a number of significant milestones on our journey as a nation.  This year’s Emancipendence season marks the 175th anniversary of full freedom, 51st anniversary of political Independence from slavery, and the 61st anniversary of Denbigh Agricultural Show.  Together we are celebrating […]

A very good morning to you all! It seems as if it were just a few months ago that we were gathered in worship and praise as we celebrated our Golden Jubilee!  Yet, this morning we meet in Bethel, “the House of God”, to thank Him for bringing us to this new Anniversary, the 51st […]

My Fellow Jamaicans, at home and in the Diaspora, We bring the curtains down on our 50th Anniversary celebrations and begin our 51st year at a time when our country is beckoning to us for our recommitment to rise and build! This is a call to all of us; none is exempt! Our National Anthem […]

  AUGUST 1, 2013 My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you warmly as we unite in celebrating that momentous first of August in 1838 when “Full Freedom” finally ended the oppressive slave regime in Jamaica and elsewhere in the British Empire. Amidst the various celebratory events, we must not forget the journey of our ancestors: the […]

THE SIGNING CEREMONY FOR THE PARTNERSHIP FOR JAMAICA AGREEMENT JULY 31, 2013 Ladies and Gentlemen: A very good morning to you all! A number of highly significant ceremonies in Jamaica’s history have been held right here in this Ballroom at King’s House, but none more important than this, in which the Partnership for Jamaica Agreement […]

  JULY 30, 2013 Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls:   A very good afternoon to you all! I bring you warm greetings from the Governor-General who, much as he would have loved to be with you this afternoon, has a very tight schedule which demands his presence in the Capital today. He has asked […]

  JAMAICA PEGASUS HOTEL, FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2013 A very Good Afternoon to you! I am pleased to be able to attend your closing exercise and share in this important occasion with you. The Tourism Product Development Company understands the importance of protocol and professionalism and today’s graduation signifies their utmost faith that you are […]

JUNE 24, 2013 Good Evening to you all! This is indeed a very special moment in the history of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.  You have gathered here for this joyous celebration of the investiture of Bishop Sarah Davis as the first female President of the Council of Bishops of the International African Methodist Episcopal […]

“ON A MISSION: JAMAICA- DISAPORA PARTNERSHIP FOR DEVELOPMENT” It is great to see this vibrant Diaspora group gathered here. I think Miss Valarie Steele has summed up the sentiments of the Diaspora very well with the statement that “most Jamaicans living overseas walk around with a piece of the homeland in their hearts, most Jamaicans […]

  ROTARY CLUB OF KINGSTON’S BACK2LIFE HANDING OVER CEREMONY THURSDAY, JUNE 13, 2013 A very Good Afternoon to you all! President Manley would have already conveyed my apologies at not being here earlier, but you would understand that there are times when the best laid plans are upset by other events.  Despite the obligatory agenda […]

SUNDAY JUNE 2, 2013 Greetings! I am delighted to participate in this church service to mark the start of Road Safety Awareness Month, aimed at reducing road traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities.  I commend the Jamaica Gasolene Retailers Association for your commitment to the promotion of road safety awareness over the past thirty years. True […]

“TRANSFORMING JAMAICA THROUGH INVESTING IN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT” Junior Achievement Jamaica is one of the organizations which I was very pleased to endorse under the umbrella of the “I Believe” Initiative. Their mission to empower young people to own their economic success, left no doubt in my mind that JAJ is fully in line with the […]

  In a dynamic and economically challenging era as the one we are experiencing in Jamaica, I commend and endorse the initiative of the Mutual Building Societies Foundation (MBSF), Digicel Foundation and the Business Lab, for the conception and implementation of the Young Entrepreneurs “I am the Change Programme”.  This programme departs from the traditional […]

MAY 20, 2013 My first introduction to the Caribbean Council was by way of David Jessop’s weekly columns in Jamaica’s oldest newspaper “The Gleaner”. For several years I have monitored and learned much from those columns, but soon came to appreciate the wider scope and the value of the Council’s work for, and on behalf […]

MAY 19, 2013 This afternoon Lady Allen and I attended the appreciation luncheon in honour of Councillor Mike Whitby and to thank the University of Birmingham for their support and the warmth with which they received the Jamaican Olympic Team last year.  There, I relived the moments of glory when the Black, Green and Gold […]

MAY 18, 2013 Lady Allen and I are very pleased to be sharing in this celebratory service to mark the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of the Jamaica National Building Society’s Office in the United Kingdom.  It is certainly very good to see so many Jamaicans and distinguished friends of Jamaica gathered here on this […]

Good Afternoon! Welcome to King’s House for the official launch of the “I Believe” Initiative’s “Summer of Service” competition for Upper Sixth Formers and first year University students. It might already have struck you that the acronym for this competition is SOS and though not by design, but rather by happy coincidence, this competition could […]

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: A very good afternoon to you, Your Royal Highness, and to you my Distinguished Guests. It is both a tremendous honour and a delight for Lady Allen and me to host Your Royal Highness on your second visit to Jamaica.  We are pleased that the Most Honourable Prime Minister leads […]

Good Morning to you all! It is good it is for us to be here this morning at the Northern Caribbean University to collectively offer up prayers of thanksgiving and supplication to God for the Security Forces of our country!  Located as we are this morning within the JCF’s Area 3, we especially seek God’s […]

ON THE OCCASION OF THE BOOK LAUNCH FOR PROFILE OF EXCELLENCE: STRATEGIES FOR EXTRAORDINARY ACHIEVEMENT FROM 25 YEARS OF INTERVIEWING REMARKABLE PEOPLE BY IAN BOYNE & GLENFORD SMITH Good afternoon. Lady Allen and I are pleased to welcome you all to Kings House this evening for the launch of the book Profile of Excellence: Strategies […]

“FORTIFYING THE FOUNDATIONS- FORGING INTO NEW FRONTIERS – BECAUSE I AM A CHRISTIAN” INTRODUCTION This is the first time that that I am presenting a lecture at the Jamaica Theological Seminary, so I am definitely “forging into new frontiers” today.  I am in two minds as to whether to thank the Rev. Dr. Roper for […]

WELCOME REMARKS BY HER EXCELLENCY THE MOST HONOURABLE LADY ALLEN AT THE LAUNCH OF THE SHAUNA FULLER CLARKE’S  B.A.S.E. FOUNDATION KING’S HOUSE, MARCH 20, 2013   Good Morning to you all! His Excellency The Governor-General and I are always pleased to open the doors of this beautiful and historic building to the people of Jamaica, […]

REMARKS BY GOVERNOR-GENERAL HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HON. SIR PATRICK ALLEN, ON, GCMG, CD AT THE I BELIEVE I CAN FLY: A NEW DAY IN JA SEMINAR SUNDAY MARCH 17, 2013   Good Afternoon to you. The “I Believe I Can Fly Seminars” is a project that is making our dreams a reality. We had […]

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HONOURABLE SIR PATRICK ALLEN ON, GCMG, CD FOR JIM/GLEANER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2012   In 1834 the first edition of the Gleaner newspaper was published in Jamaica.  Over the next 179 years what started out as a four-page weekly publication grew step by step, overcoming […]

READ BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HON. SIR PATRICK ALLEN, ON, GCMG, CD GOVERNOR-GENERAL   Good afternoon and a special welcome to King’s House for the celebration of Commonwealth Day 2013. I will now read a message from The Queen.   This year’s Commonwealth theme, ‘Opportunity through Enterprise’, is a celebration of our achievements, particularly […]

Good afternoon to you. It is always a distinct pleasure for Lady Allen and me to be among service-minded person.  In fact, as an honorary member of the Lions Club of Kingston, I welcome the opportunity to participate in this special annual activity for launching White Cane Month.    Last week, as I marked my 4th […]

REMARKS BY GOVERNOR-GENERAL HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST HON. SIR PATRICK ALLEN, ON, GCMG, CD AT INSTALLATION OF THE HON. JEFFREY MCKKITTY, OD, JP AS CUSTOS OF ST. MARY THURSDAY FEBRUARY 28, 2014       Good Afternoon to you all! This is a beautiful afternoon for us to share in the ceremony for the installation […]

Good Morning to you all! For me, this is indeed a very happy occasion – the groundbreaking ceremony for the much needed Operating Theatre for the Cardiac Wing of the Bustamante Hospital for Children.  Like many of you, I have long anticipated this event, but we have to accept the fact that nothing happens before […]

I welcome you to King’s House for this important event – the swearing-in of Mr. Dirk Harrison as Jamaica’s fifth Contractor-General. There is so much which is expected of this post which you, Mr. Harrison, will assume on Friday, March 1. I want to assure each one of you that the process which was carried […]

A very good morning to you all! The Jamaica Baptist Union’s 163rd Assembly is taking place at a time when Jamaica is facing serious challenges; as one songwriter says “This is a grand and awful time”. This is a time when so many are filled with doubts about the future of our country and whether […]

Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller – Prime Minister Mr. Andrew Holness – Leader of the Opposition Honourable Ministers of Government Most Hon. Professor Sir Kenneth Hall and Lady Hall Hon. Mrs. Justice Zaila McCalla – Chief Justice Hon. Mr. Justice Seymour Panton – President of the Court of Appeal Your Excellencies and members of the […]

A Happy New Year to you. God has been so good to us and he has taken us through another year. First of all, let me commend the leaders of The Power of Faith Ministries International and the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches for responding to God’s guidance for the organization of this Annual National […]

My fellow Jamaicans and Friends of Jamaica, We begin each year with the joys, burden, sorrow, or triumph of the past year still etched in our minds. That past and the way it influences us will determine how we live in the ensuing year. The questions before each of us are, how well have we […]

Good morning. It is a part of the King’s House tradition that at this time of the year the Governor-General and First Lady visit and bring cheer to patients in hospitals across Jamaica.  Lady Allen and I are pleased to be carrying on that tradition and to convey to our patients her this morning best […]

Good morning. It is a part of the King’s House tradition that at this time of the year the Governor-General and First Lady visit and bring cheer to patients in hospitals across Jamaica.  Lady Allen and I are pleased to be carrying on that tradition and to convey to the patients our hope for their […]

Good afternoon. This is the only time of year when Lady Allen can rest assured that I shall accompany her on a visit to the Bustamante Children’s Hospital. I hope you understand that when Lady visits with the children on Monday afternoons, she not only enjoys my full support, but she beautifully represents the care […]

Welcome to King’s House!  It is good that you are here to share in the awards ceremony of the Jamaica Information Service’s National Heritage Essay Competition. Firstly let me congratulate the Jamaica Information Service on the excellent way in which you have involved students in the commemoration of our golden jubilee.  You have piqued a […]

A pleasant good morning to you all and Lady Allen joins me in extending a warm welcome to King’s House.  Enjoyable and memorable experience here today. Since 1991 the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards Programme has recognised Jamaicans from humble beginnings or circumstances who, despite adversities, have excelled in various areas of endeavour and in return they […]

  Warm, Christian greetings to you all!   The letter of invitation which Bishop Dyer sent to me reminded me of the significant involvement of the Portmore Ministers’ Fraternal in the action of the municipality “to make Portmore the best place to live, worship, work and maintain families”. This proves that you have done more […]

A very good morning to you all! Last year I attended the graduation ceremony and I was immensely proud to see the number of students including women, where were part of the graduating class.  Today during my tour of Kingston as part of my Jamaica 50 Parish Tours, I am pleased to visit with you. […]

One of my activities for the celebration of Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary is a series of Parish Tours designed to allow my closer interaction with a wide cross-section of Jamaicans. This tour of Kingston, a parish which I can claim to know very well, is the last in the series. Kingstonians will no doubt say as […]

Each year Heritage Week and National Heroes Day in particular, afford us the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of our Heroes to national development.  We proudly laud their legacy and acknowledge their enduring impact on Jamaica as evidence of their invaluable contribution to their native land.  We also celebrate those individuals who continue to build […]

Fellow Jamaicans at home and abroad, I greet you on this the celebration of our Golden Jubilee-fifty years as a proud and independent nation. This is a time of special significance to those of us who experienced the pride and joy of August 6, 1962. Today we all celebrate our accomplishments and reflect on our […]

Mr. President and Members of the Senate Mr. Speaker and Members of the House I commend the Houses of Parliament for this significant joint sitting in celebration of Jamaica’s Golden Jubilee and extend warmest greetings to you, the serving representatives of our people, as well as to those who served in Parliament in previous periods […]

In the midst of our celebrations of Jamaica’s Golden Jubilee, we take time to highlight the significance of this the 178th anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery. We recall the end of that systemic oppression which vainly sought to rob our ancestors of their humanity. We cannot forget the struggles of those who fought for […]

Good afternoon. Introduction There is a Chinese proverb that says, “One generation plants the trees; another gets the shade.” This is relevant to the action which Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partners are taking.  Noranda’s decision to grant Jamaica 50 scholarships will produce trees in the form of qualified Jamaicans who will not only hold the soil […]

Good morning.   Introduction “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire” – William Butler Yeats As a past student of Moneague College, I am flooded with memories of the years when I walked the halls of this prestigious institution and a fire was lit in my own soul. […]

The Parish of St. Ann is a microcosm of Jamaica: all the major industries of the island are fully operational here; Jamaica’s history and culture are deeply engrained here; our people “Out of many one” are all evident here. St. Ann can be classified as a parish of firsts. To refresh your memory, I’ll recite […]

A warm Christian greeting to all of you. I take this opportunity to thank the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition for your gracious and generous remarks of tributes as well as the memorial plaque unveiled in Parliament to commemorate an event which is significant to so many Jamaicans – the Diamond Jubilee […]

Warm Jamaican greetings! I am happy to be back in London and even more delighted to have this opportunity to address you.  We are here, of course, to participate in the activities to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and to underlie Jamaica’s deep and long-standing relationship with this country.  This year is also a special […]

Greetings, my brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I use this opportunity firstly to thank you for your gracious invitation to Lady and me to participate and share in this celebratory convention to mark the 75th year of your ministry in Jamaica.  Truly you can say with pride […]

It is my honour to address you on the occasion of your 37th regional conference, which Jamaica is proud to host in our 50th year of independence.  I am also pleased to extend a warm welcome to each of you visiting our beautiful island, and do not hesitate to return, because I am sure you […]

Honourable Members: Almost fifty years ago, this great nation officially came into being, born out of the vision and heroic efforts of generations of illustrious forefathers and foremothers. Fittingly, the year’s activities will be highlighted by the commemoration of this historic 50thAnniversary of our political Independence. The journey from 1962 has been eventful and challenging,as […]

This evening I take great pleasure in welcoming all of you to King’s House on this very special occasion, in honour of His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales.  In Jamaica most persons know him as Prince Harry but I can assure you that he is one and the same person. We are really quite […]

Your Excellency, Prime Minister, Ladies and Gentlemen. I count it a great privilege to be standing here tonight, representing The Queen in Jamaica on her Diamond Jubilee. Her Majesty has asked me to extend her great good wishes to you all, and is sorry that she can’t be here – so you’re stuck with me… […]

It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this official ceremony to swear in Mr. Evon Saint Patrick Atkinson, QC, as Attorney-General of Jamaica. Mr. Atkinson, this appointment is an indication that the Prime Minister has reposed significant confidence in your ability to lead the Attorney General’s Chambers, given the manner in which you […]

It is a pleasure to welcome each one of you to King’s House for this ceremony to swear in the Most Honourable Mrs. Portia Simpson Miller as Prime Minister of Jamaica.    I also extend a warm welcome to those heads of government and delegations from abroad who have joined us for this historic occasion, as […]

The 14th Conference of Presidents and Governors-General of the Caribbean Community was held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Jamaica from the 21st to the 24th November 2011. The Chairman of the Conference was His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, ON, GCMG, CD, Governor-General of Jamaica. Two (2) Presidents and seven other (7) […]

Your Excellencies Ladies and Gentlemen Jamaica, the Region and indeed the world is at a critical juncture.  The problems that face nations seem to boggle the mind and there are no easy answers.  There is any number of issues that I could address today.  Some of the challenges with which we wrestle are: The continuing […]

PREAMBLE The Hon. Dr. Kenneth Baugh – Deputy Prime of Jamaica and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade The Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller – Leader of the Opposition Your Excellencies, Presidents and Governors-General of the Caribbean Community and spouses Honourable Ministers of Government Most Hon. Professor Sir Kenneth Hall – Former Governor-General of […]

Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora, good afternoon. We are here this afternoon to celebrate and recognize another significant moment in our democracy-the smooth and peaceful transition of leadership.  We are doing so in accordance with our Constitution that has served us well for the past 49 years. I therefore welcome you to […]

National Heritage Week provides an opportunity for us to reflect on the hard work, dedication and contribution which our National Heroes have made to nation-building.  At this time, it is therefore appropriate to ‘praise famous men and our fathers that begat us.” The resoluteness of our National Heroes in advancing the cause for fundamental rights […]

PREAMBLE: Your Excellency Ambassador Noel Martinez Ochoa – Dean of the Diplomatic Corps The Hon. Arnold Foote – Dean of the Consular Corps Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps Mr. Bruce Bowen – President  and Chief Executive Officer, Scotia Bank Group Mr. Robert Scott – Secretary, Consular Corps of Jamaica Delegates from overseas Distinguished […]

My fellow Jamaicans: I extend warm greetings to you as our nation celebrates forty-nine years of Independence. It is without question that August 6, 1962 represented a watershed moment in our history.  That historic date was the sum total of the contribution of our forebears to nation-building occasioned by their passionate belief that Jamaicans deserved […]

Good afternoon to you all. First let me congratulate the top achievers in the media who will shortly be given awards this afternoon. I am encouraged by this act of collegiality from the Advertising Agencies Association of Jamaica towards the members of the Media Association of Jamaica. When such influential bodies as yourselves affirm each […]

Good afternoon. Her Excellency and I are pleased to share in this luncheon provided by Custos and Mrs Fuller and their team; and your gracious presence makes this a delightful luncheon.  I appreciate the opportunity to meet with you, fellowship and reflect on the opportunities and challenges that the downtown business district encounter in its […]

“Reclaim the glory” Good afternoon. I welcome this opportunity to address the Kingston’s JP’s and Lady and I are pleased to be with you.  We appreciate the fact that you have taken time to attend this function. Since my inauguration in February 2009, Lady Allen and I have travelled across Jamaica to meet with people […]

I deeply appreciate your kind invitation to participate in this the 4th Biennial Convention aimed at strengthening the partnership between Jamaica and its Diaspora.  I take this opportunity to welcome home all participants who are here from abroad I want to commend the organizers here in Jamaica and the Diaspora for staging this conference and […]

New Financial Year This new session of Parliament opens against the backdrop of a global economic recovery that is proving to be slow, uneven and uncertain. The significant increases which we have recently been experiencing in the cost of imported oil and grain are a worrying reminder of what took place in 2008 when these […]

“The Moral Duty of Care” Preamble ·        Mr Maurice Saunders            Master of Ceremonies& Director – Legal Aid Clinic ·        Hon Dorothy Lightbourne Minister of Justice & Attorney General ·        Dr the Hon Oswald Harding      President of the Senate ·        Hon Delroy Chuck               Speaker of the House ·        Hon Mrs Zaila McCalla Chief Justice ·        Hon […]

Preamble   ·       Mr Darren Miller          President, National Secondary Schools Students’ Council ·       Dr Pauline Miller          Chairman, National Child Month Committee ·       Hon Douglas Orane Chairman & CEO Grace Kennedy Ltd ·       Mr Errol Miller             Chairman, LIME ·       Mrs Sharon Edwards   Project Manager, Council on Voluntary Social Services ·       Students ·       Members of the Media […]

Introduction Chief Justice, Most. Hon. Professor Sir Kenneth Hall, Professor Trevor Munroe, members of the National Integrity Action Forum, a pleasant good morning.  I am pleased to welcome each one of you to Kings House for this second anniversary appreciation breakfast of the National Integrity Action Forum. Since January 2009 the National Integrity Action Forum […]

Ladies and gentlemen good morning.   The Girls’ Brigade is recognised worldwide as one of the foremost institutions offering guidance and sound moral values that will guide young girls along the path to becoming young ladies.  Lady Allen and I are proud to be associated with this organisation and we are pleased with the contribution […]

Introduction   This morning I would like to speak to the membership of the Paediatric Association of Jamaica, their sponsors and guests at this poster launch event, “Be wise, supervise.” This is an apt slogan and is timely for Jamaican parents and guardians at this time.  Children need parents to protect them and keep them […]

Ladies and gentlemen good afternoon.   Introduction On March 4, 2009, just six days after my inauguration as Governor-General, I accepted an invitation from the Lions Club of Kingston to launch White Cane Month.  I had not yet settled into office and to borrow a cricketing idiom, ‘the shine was still on the ball.’ This […]

Ladies and gentlemen good afternoon. Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr stated that, “You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t even have to make your subject and your verb agree. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.” I believe that the men […]

Ladies and gentlemen good afternoon. Introduction As I watched the young men and women march, my hope for our country resurged. Despite the difficulties we presently share with the rest of the world, we must recognise that we are a nation which has been blessed with a rich heritage, abundant resources, and the prospect of […]

It is indeed a pleasure for Lady Allen and me to welcome and host you this evening, on the occasion of the thirteenth annual dinner in honour of the diplomatic corps. This event presents an opportunity not only to interact outside the usual work environment, but also for us to entertain you with the warm […]

I am pleased to be with you this evening to share in your function and deliver the Patron’s Message. Firstly, I use this opportunity to join with the JTA, Berger Paints and the education fraternity in congratulating Mr. Wesley Barrett retired Chief Education Officer, who is this year’s recipient of the JTA/Berger Roll of Honour […]

I warmly welcome each one of you to King’s House. This is the second time in as many months that we are swearing-in judges, which as it appears, makes the justice system in our country a vibrant and dynamic one. Mr. Justice Lloyd Hibbert, I congratulate you on your appointment to Act as Judge of […]

Your Excellencies, I warmly welcome all of you to King’s House this morning and extend my heartiest congratulations on having presented credentials as the emissaries of your esteemed governments, to Jamaica.  It is my pleasure, also, to welcome you to Jamaica and I am indeed particularly happy that your first mission as new Ambassadors to […]

On behalf of the people of Jamaica, I extend a warm welcome to our visitors who have travelled from near and far to attend this International Conference on “Language Policy in the Creole-speaking Caribbean”. I hope you will have a profitable experience and also enjoy your stay here.  A special welcome to my Governors-General counterpart […]

I am pleased at having been afforded this chance, as patron of this event, to join you this morning in preparing for the challenges and triumphs of the next twelve (12) months. For the past thirty one (31) years, we have been gathering with the leadership of this nation from the political, civic, religious and […]

Preamble Mr. Lyttleton Shirley – Board Chairman, South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) Mrs. Beverley Needham – CEO, Bustamante Hospital Dr. Michelle Ann Richards Dawson – Senior Medical Officer Mr. Donald Farquharson – Regional Director, SERHA Mr. Godfrey Boyd – Parish Manager, Kingston and St. Andrew Health Services Mrs. Patricia Ingram martin – Matron, BHC […]

Appreciation It is a pleasure for me to attend and bring greetings at the 6th Annual Best Practices Awards Ceremony hosted by the Jamaica Stock Exchange.  Your Distinguished Patron His Excellency The Governor-General is unavoidably absent, but he has asked me to extend his best wishes for a very successful evening.  The JSE – a […]

Your Excellency, Dr. Juan Manuel Santos Calderon, President of the Republic of Colombia Hon. Bruce Golding – Prime Minister and Mrs. Golding Hon. Dr. Kenneth Baugh – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller – Leader of the Opposition Former Prime Ministers, the Most Hon. Edward […]

RemarksIt is a pleasure to welcome each and everyone of you back to King’s House and to this luncheon. This Luncheon follows our annual meeting at which Custodes are asked to update The Governor-General on activities in their respective parishes.  We had a very productive meeting this morning and affirmed some of the things that […]

WelcomeLadies and gentlemen good morning.Her Excellency joins me in extending a warm welcome to each and every one of you to King’s House for the Governor-General’s Achievement Award’s function.  This morning’s event brings the curtain down on the 2010 awards.  The awards have been in existence for 19 years and to date, 420 persons have […]

IntroductionIt is always good to go back home.  Lady Allen and I are delighted to be here with you this afternoon to share in the celebration of yet another achievement of the Moneague College – the dedication ceremony for the new Gloria Johnson Multi-purpose Building.  I extend special greetings to the Principal, faculty and staff, […]

The real strength and pillars of this nation are the energetic, bright, dynamic, and enthusiastic young people who play an important role in nation-building.  This morning we want to hear from you, our future leaders.  Lady Allen and I welcome you, and thank you for accepting the invitation to be here to continue the conversations […]

IntroductionI am pleased to participate in this 60th anniversary of the WorldSkills International General Assembly, which also coincides with the 4th staging of the National Skills Competition.  On behalf of the people of Jamaica, I extend a warm welcome to each one of you, especially our visitors, who have travelled from near or far to […]

“I Believe in Jamaica…Our People, Our Land, Our Heritage.”   Greetings to my fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora as we celebrate Heritage Week. It is important that in our quest to build a bright future for Jamaica, we pause to reflect on the past and renew our hope in our people, our […]

Good afternoon.Today we are here to officially celebrate the achievements of 14 of our nation’s sons and daughters from the County of Surrey, who, despite their varying backgrounds and circumstances, demonstrated that they have the qualities that make them deserving of recommendation for The Governor-General’s Achievement Award (GGAA).   We honour individuals who believe in themselves […]

“REACHING FOR EXCELLENCE.” Good morning. It is great to be with you today. Lady Allen and I take the opportunity to thank you accepting the invitation to be here and to dialogue with us. You represent real opportunities for how we can build better communities and a better nation.  We are here this morning because […]

‘EXCELLENCE THROUGH SERVICE’ Good afternoon.   Introduction   It is always a pleasure to be among individuals who embody, celebrate and promote the ideal of excellence.  I therefore wish to thank the LASCO Group of Companies for their invitation to Lady Allen and me to participate in this year’s Teacher and Principal of the Year […]

I am pleased to welcome every one of you to King’s House today for the installation of Mrs. Marigold Harding as Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St. Andrew. Mrs. Harding’s appointment, which became effective on August 9, 2010, followed on the retirement of Bishop the Hon. Dr. Carmen Stewart, OJ, who served as Custos […]

“BELIEVE IN YOURSELF” Introduction We are here this afternoon to celebrate: to celebrate perseverance, excellence and the rewards of success.  Firstly, let me say that Lady Allen and I are pleased and honoured to have you here at King’s House for this function under the “I Believe” banner.  And we could not think of a […]

It’s always a pleasure to visit the parish of St. Elizabeth. Lady Allen and I have always been impressed by the warmth and hospitality of the people.   This parish is known for good farming soil and has justly earned its title as the ‘Breadbasket of Jamaica.’  Its beautiful beaches and unusual attractions make St. Elizabeth […]

Good afternoon. I relish moments like these and activities which recognize our youngsters for their academic achievements, and I wish to thank the JPS and Partners Cooperative Credit Union Limited, for their invitation to share in this function in honor of scholarship winners and their parents.  Each year, approximately 50,000 primary school students sit the […]

Ladies and Gentlemen. Good afternoon. IntroductionCongratulations to all the students who will receive Awards for achieving and maintaining high scholastic averages during the last school year.  It is certainly a job well done, and a testimony of your hard work through the year.  Your success is also an indication of the commitment and support of […]

My fellow Jamaicans at home and abroad: Our Independence Anniversary allows us another opportunity to reflect, renew and recommit ourselves to the ongoing task of nation-building. We pause on our journey, as we do each year, to celebrate, and then we continue, pursuing our objective of achieving the preferred future for our country. This 48th […]

“The power of one can impact many” Good afternoon.  Her Excellency and I are very pleased to be here with you and to share in this very important function. IntroductionAs millions of viewers watched the World Cup Football finals held for the first time on the African Continent a few weeks ago, global media took […]

IntroductionThank your Madam President for your invitation to attend and address the Annual General Meeting and Bi-annual Conference of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Jamaica.  I am quite pleased with this initiative and what it represents for us as a developing society.  I offer my sincere commendations to the founders and present leader of the […]

Introduction It is truly a pleasure and an honour for me to be here at St. Mary High School for your graduation ceremony. Some of you may be aware that I worked in this parish as a teacher and Principal for eleven years, and have sent several students to this school by way of the […]

“Volunteering: It is in giving we receive” PREAMBLEGood afternoon. INTRODUCTION It has been said that, “No duty is more urgent and spontaneous than that of returning thanks.” This afternoon, we say thanks to, and celebrate the people, organizations and partnerships that have contributed so selflessly to building better communities. But before we officially recognize the […]

  Introduction I am delighted to participate in this very important, real, yet symbolic event.  My first encounter with Nicholas Powell was in May of last year, at one of three youth consultative breakfasts held across the island.  I recall that when it was his turn to make a contribution to the discussion, he eloquently […]

It is my honour to officially welcome you to the shores of Jamaica, and specifically to its capital city Kingston. I commend you for the remarkable achievement of acquiring and commissioning this new vessel to full time ministry.  In its first year of operation, thousands of Jamaicans will benefit from this visit as they did […]

Lady Allen joins me in expressing deep regret at the passing of Professor the Hon. Rex Nettleford; educator, creative artist and founder of the internationally acclaimed National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC). Professor Nettleford was well regarded as one of Jamaica’s cultural icons, and his death yesterday (February 2) has left a significant void in Jamaica […]

St Andrew: Centre of Cultural and Social Significance- Catalyst for Change INTRODUCTION Good morning. It is good to be here with you this morning and I must thank the Custos of St. Andrew Bishop the Hon. Dr. Carmen Stewart for her invitation to Lady Allen and me to meet with you.  There are a number […]

Introduction I have the pleasure to address you this evening on the occasion of the Twelfth Annual Dinner in honour of the Diplomatic Corps.    Lady Allen and I are truly delighted to host this event for the first time.  I extend warm greetings to our non-resident Ambassadors and High Commissioners who are visiting. I am […]

READ BY BISHOP THE HON. DR. CARMEN STEWART CUSTOS ROTULORUM FOR ST. ANDREW Good morning. The Office of the Children’s Registry, which was established in January 2007, has worked assiduously to safeguard the welfare of children. It has faithfully carried out its mandate to receive record and store data on the maltreatment of Jamaican children who […]

HAPPY NEW YEAR! A warm welcome to each one of you to King’s House and the available facilities. It is good to have the pleasure of your company, and I trust you will have a good evening. This function is under the aegis of the Consular Corps of Jamaica who have done a tremendous job […]

“With God, We Will Overcome” Although the year is rapidly slipping away, it is still in order for me to say, Happy New Year. Introduction Her Excellency joins me in expressing our appreciation for the invitation to be a part of this Annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast.  In addition to that, I have also consented […]

“The Role of the Bible in Your Life” Introduction Good morning. Many of you gathered here know of my close association with the Bible Society of the West Indies.  I served as Vice Chairman of the Society and enjoyed working on the projects as well as the fellowship and interaction with the executive body and […]

Fellow Jamaicans! Happy New Year! As we begin a new year and a new decade, I shall address you from my heart, with the hope that I can connect with the heart of ALL who still believe in Jamaica. It is very evident, that our main goals this year must be survival and renewal. There […]

“Rekindling, Family, Love & Hope” My fellow Jamaicans: As we approach the end of a year of varying challenges, difficulties and triumphs, it is time once again to celebrate Christmas.  We can all agree that we are a blessed people and for that we are thankful.  We are thankful that: We were spared the fury […]

Introduction It is a pleasure for Lady Allen and me to visit with the staff and patients of the Victoria Jubilee Hospital.  This is our final stop in a series of visits to hospitals across Jamaica. Yesterday we visited with the patients and staff at the Bustamante Hospital for Children – the only specialist hospital […]

Introduction It is a pleasure for Lady Allen and me to visit with the staff and patients of the Princess Margaret Hospital on this, our second stop in a series of official visits. We consider these visits a very serious responsibility and a role that must be fulfilled earnestly.  So we sincerely appreciate your accommodating […]

Introduction I thank the Commissioner of Corrections for your kind invitation to address this fundraising dinner of the Committee for the Inmate Public Work Programme.  Lady Allen and I also welcome the opportunity to share with you in promoting the positive initiatives which are being undertaken by the Department of Correctional Services.  This and other […]

We are pleased to have you here tonight at King’s House for this State Dinner in honour of President Kikwete (\ki-‘kew-tai\) and Her Excellency Salma Kikwete.  President Kikwete, your visit is particularly significant to me as you are the first Head of State to visit Jamaica since my inauguration as Governor-General of Jamaica in February […]

“Children at risk…a Caribbean Church Response” Introduction Their Excellencies the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen and the Most Hon. Lady Allen extend apologies that they are unable to be present at this the opening session of your three-day conference.  His Excellency the Governor-General has asked me to present greetings on his behalf. I now read […]

I commend employees across the public sector whose hard work has helped Jamaica remain strong and competitive despite the challenges facing the nation at this time. According to Chinese proverb, a gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials. Jamaicans must therefore remain resolute and work our way out of the challenges. […]

Introduction It is indeed a pleasure for Lady Allen and I to welcome all of you to King’s House for the staging of the Governor-General’s Achievement Awards’ Programme Pinning Ceremony. At the outset, I wish to acknowledge former Governors-General the Most Honourable Sir Howard Cooke (who is unavoidably absent) and the Most Honourable Professor Sir […]

“I Believe:  The Hope of Tomorrow” Preamble Mr. Chairman Dr. and Mrs. Ricketts Officers and Members of the NCU California Chapter Pastors and Church Leaders of the Pacific Coast Conference Ladies & Gentlemen Good afternoon Lady Allen and I are delighted to be here with you and we thank you for the invitation to attend […]

Our parents face a tremendous task in today’s society. Many parents are faced with the challenge of raising children in single-parent homes, or acting as guardians for their wards. They also have to contend with technology, television, peers, and the general public, as there are contending views about what is socially acceptable. The role of […]

Lady Allen joins me in hosting the launch of ‘Bustamante, Notes, Quotes, Anecdotes’, and we welcome you to King’s House for this event. Sir Alexander Bustamante, one of our National Heroes and former Prime Minister, has been immortalized through various memoirs and recollections. And now, through the eyes of journalist and author, Ken Jones we will […]

INTRODUCTION Lady Allen and I welcome the invitation to attend and participate in this meeting of Church, school and community leaders in Mocho, Clarendon. Like the rest of Jamaica, you too are concerned about the level at of crime and the impact it is having on your community.  Your letter of invitation painted a beautiful […]

“The Church . . . Disciples in Transformation!” PREAMBLE Lady Allen and I are pleased to be here with you to share in this the opening night of your biennial four-day congress.  This is the 25th Anniversary of the Congress of Evangelicals in the Caribbean and it is certainly significant that you have chosen Jamaica […]

“Early Detection:  Your Best Defense in the Fight Against Breast Cancer!” Introduction Lady Allen and I welcome this opportunity to join with the management and members of the Jamaica Cancer Society in paying tribute to all those persons who have contributed to raising the awareness about breast cancer.  This October marks the 25th observance of […]

Introduction Good evening and thank you for the invitation and opportunity to address you. It is an honour for me and Lady Allen to share in this event, because it involves honouring excellence in industry. I wish to pay tribute to the Standards Council, management and staff of the Bureau of Standards for your dedication […]

“Believe in Jamaica…Embracing our Heritage” The theme of this year’s National Heritage celebration, “Believe in Jamaica. . . Embracing our Heritage” reflects and embraces our hope and faith in Jamaicans. It is appropriate, especially during this time when we are faced with difficulties all around, to identify how we can believe in Jamaica and why […]

Introduction Good afternoon. I am very pleased to be addressing this distinguished audience at the final of the County Awards functions for 2009. The Governor-General’s Achievement Awards Schemewas established in 1991: To promote excellence, and Recognise individuals across Jamaica, who have selflessly volunteered their time, talent and energy to help others and build strong communities […]

Introduction Lady Allen and I thank you for the warm welcome you have extended to us on our arrival in the parish of Trelawny.  It is a pleasure to be here to meet and greet the residents of the parish, as well as Members of Parliament, Justices of the Peace, civic leaders, business representatives, who […]

“Turn pain into purpose – Volunteer” PREAMBLE I welcome the opportunity to address the Rotary Club of Liguanea Plains and commend you for your tradition of inviting speakers from corporate Jamaica to address your members once per month.  This is a commendable way of building network and establishing new avenues of corporation in your quest […]

“Moving forward in turbulent times” Introduction Lady Allen and I are pleased to extend greetings to you all.  Special thanks to the Custos of Kingston the Very Reverend Canon the Hon. Weeville Gordon, as well as Justices of the Peace, civic leaders, business representatives and other citizens from the parish of Kingston who have come […]

Introduction Lady Allen and I are delighted to be in the parish of Hanover on this the latest stop on our journey across Jamaica. Since February we have travelled to several parishes and had meetings and conversations with: Church leaders, Leaders in business, industry and commerce; Educators, Members of the security forces, Members of civic […]

INTRODUCTION Good afternoon.  I greet you all as we gather to celebrate the outstanding achievements of fourteen individuals from the county of Cornwall who will be presented with the Governor-General’s Achievement Award. The Governor-General’s Achievement Award is counted as one of Jamaica’s most successful and prestigious awards programmes.  Over 200 persons have been acknowledged since […]

“I Believe in Jamaica” Fellow Jamaicans at home and abroad, I greet you on the commemoration of the 47th anniversary of our Independence.  As we reflect on the past and celebrate, let us remember that the true meaning of Independence must evolve from each Jamaican.  It should be determined by our collective dreams and hopes […]

Today, we pay tribute to the fortitude, determination and bravery of our ancestors.  Emancipation Day, August 1, 1838 was a defining moment in the history of Jamaica, and it affirmed the inalienable right of ex-slaves to life and liberty.  At last they had hope that they could be masters of their own destiny and contribute […]

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Lady Bustamante ‘Lady B’ as she was affectionately called by all Jamaicans. Lady Bustamante played a seminal role in nation building and provided a steady hand to help maintain unity and social cohesion at some of the most difficult times in our history.  She was a humble […]

“Delivering Quality, Serving Communities: Nurses Leading Care Innovation” Introduction Good evening.  Lady Allen and I are delighted to be here with you tonight to share in your Awards Ceremony as part of your Nurses Week celebrations.  Many, if not all of you, know of my close association with Andrews Memorial Hospital, having served on the […]

“The Impact of Trauma on the Health of Our Nation” Salutations: Mr. Derek Jones – Master of Ceremonies Dr. Rosemarie Wright-Pascoe – President of the Medical Association of Jamaica Executive Members of the MAJ and other members of the Association MAJ 2009 Awardees –  Drs Dunn, Archibald and Wright Distinguished guests Ladies and gentlemen Good […]

THEME: GROWING TREES FOR A PURPOSE Does Earth Day really matter? The question was asked recently “does earth day really matter?”  Earth Day has been observed worldwide since 1970 but nearly forty years later, the earth that God created is groaning in pain because of neglectful stewards and the affliction of deforestation, climate change, global […]

“And of the Children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel out to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.” (1 Chron 12:32) Of Zebulum, such as went forth to battle, expert in war, with all instruments of […]

Good evening and warm greetings to each of you. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.  This 1998 best-selling book by Dr Richard Carlson lists 100 little things which take over our lives and cause stress.  Dr Carlson ends the book with the terse but simple command, ‘Treasure you.”   Is it possible that these two words can […]

“Unity of Purpose … Now More Than Ever” The new session of Parliament convenes today in the throes of the most severe economic crisis the world has experienced in more than 80 years. No country in the world has been spared and we in Jamaica have been buffeted by the raging currents of this tsunami. […]

“Setting an Agenda of Hope for Jamaica” Greetings Thanks for accepting my invitation to join us here at King’s House for this luncheon.  It is probably not the best time of the day for media practitioners to attend a function, but you have responded nonetheless and I sincerely appreciate the effort.  It is just a […]

“Transforming the Jamaica Constabulary Force to A Police Service that is Responsive to Community Needs” I am truly grateful for the invitation to speak today at the Second Public Forum hosted by the Police (Civilian Oversight) Authority in May Pen.  I think these Forums offer an excellent opportunity to facilitate more dialogue between the community […]

It is a great honour for me to be with you and to share in this Prayer and Restorative Service.  I offer special greetings to the Pastoral leadership and to Jamaicans from all walks of life, who were led by the Holy Spirit to be here today.  You are in the right place at the […]

Introduction I welcome this opportunity to address the management and staff of Guardian Life at this your ninth annual awards function.  Over the years I have enjoyed a good relationship with the company and have always appreciated the quality service which you provide.  Based on my experiences, I am confident that Guardian Life has and […]

INTRODUCTION I acknowledge, with humility, the honor that has been conferred on me and I wish to express my gratitude for this recognition. I also wish to acknowledge my keen awareness of the responsibility that comes with this position and assure you of my intention to wholeheartedly discharge the duties that accompany this Office. THANKS […]

INTRODUCTION I am honoured that you have all found it possible to join us for this ceremony this afternoon. For me this is both a humbling and an uplifting experience. The Office of Governor General and its historic association with Her Majesty The Queen, has a mystique of tradition as well as the symbolism of […]