Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Professor Sir Kenneth Hall, has said that the parish of St. Elizabeth continues to flourish, with significant tourism appeal, despite setbacks associated with natural disasters.
In his message, read at the St. Elizabeth Homecoming Foundation Thanksgiving Service, held at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Barbary Hall, on November 24, His Excellency said that although the parish has had many problems, its people have ensured that it remains a place for investors.
The Governor-General said it is always important for persons to have the ability to showcase their hard work.
“Celebrations, such as St. Elizabeth Homecoming, provide that opportunity, while reminding inhabitants of their past and enlightening them of what the future holds. The Homecoming celebrations also promote the cultural experiences and look to the future for several forms of development and advances as a country,” he said.
His message was read by President of the St. Elizabeth Chapter of the Lay Magistrates Association, Wilfred Nembhard.
In her message, Leader of the Opposition, Portia Simpson Miller, hailed the Homecoming activities as a platform that showcases the very best of the community, and leadership in the parish.
“I am sure that when the activities are concluded, the multiplier effects on the local economy within the parish, on positive community spirit and on national cohesion, will be clear. Of course, St. Elizabeth continues to play a most significant role in Jamaica’s quest to be ‘food independent’, and the farmers of the parish continue to receive my gratitude and prayers for the contribution that they make,” she said.
Mrs. Simpson-Miller’s message was read by Member of Parliament for Central Westmoreland, Roger Clarke.
Other activities for the Homecoming Week are: a Crime Forum, to be addressed by Commissioner of Police, Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin, on November 25, at the Black River HEART Trust/NTA Centre, beginning at 5:00 p.m., a Land Titling Forum, on November 26, at Siloah Primary School, commencing at 9:30 a.m., a Leadership in Education Forum, to be held at St. Elizabeth Technical High School, on November 28, starting at 9:30 a.m., and a Reunion, to be held at ALPART Sports Club, on December 7.