GG awardees urged to make Jamaica 'ideal'

WESTERN BUREAU:

Recipients of the Governor General's Achievement Award (GGAA) for Cornwall have been urged to "continue to make Jamaica the ideal place to live and work".

The charge was given during the official ceremony in St Elizabeth yesterday.

Earl Jarrett, general manager of the Jamaica National Building Society, placed the responsibility on them in his greeting at the function which was held in the community of Parottee.

"Despite the negative stories that emerge in our society on a daily basis, it is encouraging to know that there are many earnest Jamaicans who have made a significant contribution to the lives of others and to the building of social capital in our country," Jarrett said.

Not even the brief power outage at the serene Everglades Banquet Hall in Parottee could dampen the celebration of 14 extraordinary individuals - youths and adults - who were bestowed with their GGAA plaques.

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen used the opportunity to congratulate and acknowledge the dedication of the awardees who have collectively contributed to building communities in the island.

"When you receive this award it comes with great responsibility," Sir Patrick affirmed in his statement.

"This is a refreshing moment to affirm and encourage you not to give up the work that you are doing. Continue to fix what is wrong with Jamaica. Your participation indicates your commitment to community development and people empowerment, and is a tangible demonstration that you believe in Jamaica."

He urged the awardees to continue to use their indomitable spirit, sense of purpose and ability to find workable solutions to the many problems in homes, schools, and at the community and national level.

The GGAA programme was instituted in 1992 and has sought to honour and recognise individuals, several from modest economic and social circumstances, who have given back to their communities and contributed to nation building. More than 200 Jamaicans have been recognised since the inception of the prestigious award.

Governor General's Achievement Awardees for Cornwall

TRELAWNY

Paul 'Pablo' McNeil

Youth Awardees:

Pherone Griffiths

Calvin Alteman Hall

ST JAMES

Clasford Glen Woolery

Youth Awardees:

Alec Ray Tomlin

Everton Wesley Anderson

HANOVER

Reverend Dr Robert Patrick

Daley

Youth Awardees:

Merritt Lloyd O'Brian Dunwell

WESTMORELAND

Dr Trevor Anthony Hacker

Youth Awardees:

Shadee Talitha Simpson

Taniefa Beharie

ST ELIZABETH

Reverend Fr Dr Barrington

Buchanan

Youth Awardees:

Janell Wright

Roger Marvin Bent