Let us work towards the advancement of Jamaica

THE EDITOR, Madam:

As the highly eventful year of 2021 draws to a close, resilience and buoyancy are brought into focus. This year, 2021, for the most part, was marked by impactful lessons.

Barbados has been the highlight of the Caribbean this year. After almost 400 years under British sovereignty, this fiercely impactful yet small nation has taken the bold and confident leap in securing its full independence by abolishing The Queen as its head of state. The phenomenal, historical feat, spearheaded by Mia Mottley, prime minister of Barbados, has unquestionably inspired many nations across the Caribbean to follow suit when circumstances are conducive to do so.

The Jamaican Government is decisively resolute in ensuring that progress is achieved across all tiers. The recent initiative to allocate $250 million during the Christmas period among members of parliament to dispense support packages to the most vulnerable, particularly the elderly and infirm, is immensely laudable. In a cycle that is plagued by scepticism, this measure should certainly aid in reinvigorating hope and faith at this time.

I implore MPs to ensure that effective strategies are put in place that those in remote areas of the island and in utmost need of relief benefit from this scheme.

Despite Jamaica’s shortcomings, I believe we are immensely blessed. If we have gleaned any wisdom from the pandemic, it ought to be that life is mercurial and we must be ready to adapt and pivot with the erratic waves that are brought to our shores. I beseech Jamaicans to continue to pursue their path against all odds.

If we are to continue to build a path towards progress as a nation, we must begin to hold ourselves accountable and grasp the notion that we all inevitably contribute to the advancement, sustainability, and longevity of our nation.

TARA HENRY