PM Holness and Spanish as Jamaica’s second language

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I am a Jamaican living abroad who has followed closely the political and social happenings at home for the last 40 years. I must say Prime Minister Andrew Holness has taken, and continues to take, Jamaica to a high level of global recognition. Mr Prime Minister, I thank you, and the people of Jamaica should also thank you for your vision, brilliance and patriotism. I have been following your agenda and your achievements, and I must say you are lifting Jamaica from a state of ignorance and selfish control to a state of progress and global recognition. Jamaica has always been known worldwide for its beauty, resources, friendly, skilful and brilliant people, a first-class educational system and, of course, our world renowned athletes.

Over the years, we have buried our talents by being fearful to evolve or by party politics. It is time we put away party politics and do what is best for Jamaica. I do hope the people of Jamaica will stand behind you and work with you to elevate Jamaica to its rightful place in history, as a great nation. We cannot be competitive in our country unless we have a second language, and that language is Spanish.

We have got to follow the trend, and as the prime minister mentioned in his speech in Trelawny on October 18, 2018, the Spanish have a long and favourable history with Jamaica, along with extensive investments in the hotel industry. Sometimes I listen to Jamaicans talking about "taking over our country". I would encourage them to go back to our history. There is a place in Jamaica for all of us; however, we must educate ourselves with the proper tools to be a part of the renaissance which is about to take place. Jamaicans must remember, we are a large island with hidden and untapped resources which we alone cannot develop, therefore, we must encourage foreign investments, but be cautious that Jamaicans not be excluded. We must remember, 'Out of many, one people'.

Melita Johnson