Celebrating Jamaica’s Independence Page 4
August 16 - 22, 2010
• A community nnewspaper serving the parishes of Manchester and St. Elizabeth
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Manchester positioning for outsourcingsector jobs W
ith Jamaica being named as the top outsourcing centre in the Caribbean by global management consultants, AT Kearney, business stakeholders in Manchester are positioning the parish to take advantage of opportunities in this sector, what with the parish's high level of skilled graduates in technology. According to a report in the London Times, which explores the growth of the outsourcing industry globally, Jamaica has polled as the Caribbean's offshoring leader, thanks to its English-speaking population, its government's generous incentives for the industry and the island's proximity to the United States. Jamaica now has more than 15,000 outsourcing employees, according to data published by AT Kearney in the annual Global Services Location Index (GSLI). The report lists India as the number one country for outsourcing, with hundreds of thousands of workers in the sector, followed by China and Malaysia. Jamaica is the only Caribbean country in the top 50, listed at number 24. Jamaica has the capacity to expand jobs in this sector by thousands but is stymied by the unavailability of adequate accommodation for this type of business. The Manchester Business Development Company (MBDC), a local organization aimed at driving business in the parish, is currently developing a directory of potential business space, which will be passed on to Jamaica Promotions Ltd. (Jampro), which is engaged in attracting new businesses to Jamaica. With the report noting that the geography of offshoring is shifting dramatically, with established central European countries falling significantly and low-cost countries in South-East Asia and the Middle East making solid gains, Jamaica is well positioned to take advantage of this trend. AT Kearney's researchers say the shifts are down to deteriorating cost advantages in some areas of the world and improved labour quality in others. Language and the ability of outsourcing countries to articulate in English also play a role in the effectiveness of the service being offered. Norbert Jorek, a partner at AT Kearney told the Times: "While cost remains a major driver in decisions about where to outsource, the quality of the labour pool is gaining importance as companies view the labour market through a global lens, driven by talent shortages at home, particularly in higher, valueadded functions. In response, governments all over the world are investing in the human capital demanded by the offshoring industry."
Jam Session: Chaotic conditions at the Ward Avenue/Caledonia Road intersection during a rainy after-
noon recently. Manchester is currently suffering from severe traffic conditions which are set to get even worse once schools reopen in September. With schools like Mile Gully High and Porus High, which are currently benefiting from the Mutual Building Societies (MBSF) Foundation Centres of Excellence programme, several hundred technologically skilled persons will be added to the local workforce over the next three years, putting the parish in a great position to benefit from the offshore industry. Commenting on Jamaica's GSLI ranking, Jamaican High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Anthony Johnson said it is important to know that the world regards the country as a leading centre for outsourcing. "It means we ought to be ensuring that we have adequate resources in place, particularly trained hands and minds that are ready to accept the opportunities as they arise, and to ensure
that we get the maximum out of it, because it is an industry that is creating millions of jobs," he said. Mr. Johnson noted that the new coalition government in the UK was looking at outsourcing as a means of keeping the British economy going as they try to get out of the recession. "Whenever the UK looks for developing country operations, they tend to regard Jamaica as a prime area. I would hope that this would mean that we would see more approaches to Jamaica and it is time for Jamaican interests to be ensuring that they are approaching UK business operators and the UK government to ensure that they can get access to the opportunities," he argued. JIS/Shereido Carter
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Exporters earn $15B in 1st Quarter T
he Jamaican export sector continues to perform well, despite economic challenges, particularly non-traditional domestic products and foods, which earned US$173.7 million (J$15 billion) during the first quarter of this year. Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA) President, Vitus Evans, said that the revenues were approximately $6 billion more than that for the corresponding period last year, based on data from the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN). Speaking at the JEA's Breakfast Forum at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on Wednesday, August 11, Mr. Evans said STATIN's figures showed that non-traditional foods and products accounted for 52 per cent of the country's national domestic exports over the period. Products exported included: sauces and condiments; animal feed; juices; dairy products and eggs; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; tobacco; limestone; and ethanol. Mr. Evans pointed out that non-traditional food exports over the quarter yielded US$30.5 million ($2.7 bil-
lion), up from US$27.9 million ($2.3 billion). He pointed to factors such as the global recession, the decline in major export markets, fierce competition and increased safety and security requirements to enter targeted and/or established markets, as among the hurdles impacting local stakeholders over the past two years. He said that the sector has the potential to earn much more, but is under threat as it struggles to maintain its market share, caused by a shortage of local inputs and high duties to import raw material. The non-traditional sector is a major contributor to employment, accounting for over 77,000 jobs. Mr. Evans said that the JEA is aware that for the sector to be competitive, it will require working with all stakeholders including JAMPRO and the International Trade Centre (ITC), to develop a National Export Strategy for Jamaica. "We believe that the strategy will help to strengthen Jamaica's export thrust. We have assessed the value chains of the 80 priority sectors, and we are working to address the chal-
lenges identified," he stated. Mr. Evans re-affirmed the JEA's commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to realize Jamaica's National Development Plan to make it the place of choice for individuals to live, work, raise families and do business. Additionally, he has also given the JEA's undertaking to advance the primary objective of the Export Strategy, which is aimed at increasing the sector's contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) from one-fifth to one-third by 2013. "The JEA is committed to working with the government and all stakeholders to achieve these objectives, as we believe that it is only through a vibrant export sector that Jamaica will emerge from its financial and social challenges," he stated.
Need Event Coverage? Give us a call! SOUTH COAST NEWS Unit 2- 10 Ward Ave. Mandeville, Manchester Tel: 305-0435 (Claro) 381-3564 (Digicel) 531-4785 (LIME) southcoastnews@yahoo.com
Editor Clive Williams Writers Howard Hendriks Shereido Carter Photographers Clive Williams Phillip Lemonte Carl Levy Jessica Williams Special thanks to the Jamaica Information Service
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
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Inflation fell in June 2010 Quarter fares in April. Because of the increase in fares, transportation accounted for 81.2 per cent of the 1.3 per cent inflation in April," Mr. Wynter told journalists and financial sector stakeholders at the central bank's quarterly press briefing in downtown, Kingston on August 12. Mr. Wynter added, however, that this was moderated over the Governor of the Bank of Jamaica (BoJ), Brian Wynter (left), outlines the monetary policy and trends for the June 2010 quarter, at the Bank's quarterly press briefing in review period by downtown Kingston, on Thursday August 12. Also participating in the briefing are lower imported Deputy Governor responsible for Research and Economic Programming and Banking commodity prices, and Market Operations, Mrtyle Halsall (centre), and Deputy Governor, Finance and appreciation in the Technology Payments Systems, Investment and Risk Management, Livingstone Morrison. exchange rate and ank of Jamaica (BoJ) Governor, weak consumer demand. In particular, the price Brian Wynter, has confirmed that the of crude oil declined by 7.4 per cent. 2.6 per cent inflation recorded for the "Concurrently, the prices of soybean, corn quarter ending June 2010, was well below and wheat fell in the context of high inventories the 4.1 per cent for the previous March and increased production," the BoJ head quarter, as well as falling behind the 3.5 per explained. cent average for the five previous June quarMeanwhile, the central bank Governor said ters. the Bank is forecasting further reduction in He said that inflation during the quarter was headline inflation, relative to the March and largely influenced by the price adjustment of June 2010 quarters, to a range of 1.5 per cent to bus fares within the Kingston Metropolitan 2.5 per cent. Area (KMA). However, he said that inflation"The inflation forecast for the September ary pressures also emanated from the impact of quarter is also lower than the average rate of drought conditions in the first four months of 3.8 per cent for the previous five September the year, which led to higher vegetable prices. quarters," he stated. "The decline in inflation occurred in spite of Mr. Wynter noted that contributing to this the significant impact of the increase in bus lower projected inflation out-turn were the
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expectations of stable capacity conditions, declining inflation expectations and stability in the foreign exchange market. As it relates to domestic inflation for the 2010/11 fiscal year, he said that it is anticipated that this will be on the lower side of the target range of 7.5 to 9.5 per cent. The projection is underpinned by continued low consumer demand and a stable exchange rate. The risks to the inflation projection are balanced; the upside risks include adverse weather conditions which could affect domestic production while the downside risks include greater than expected reductions in real incomes, he outlined. Turning to the real sector, he said that while there are signs of recovery, economic a c t i v i t y remained weak during the June quarter, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimated to have declined in the range of 0.0 per cent to
1.0 per cent. He noted that this was a marginally slower pace of contraction than the one per cent recorded in the March 2010 quarter. "Both tradeable and non-tradeable industries were estimated to have recorded slower rates of contraction," Mr. Wynter said. He also pointed out that the resumption of growth in mining and quarrying, transportation, storage, and communication were major contributors to this improvement. However, he said domestic demand remained weak due to increased unemployment and lower real income.
Traffic restrictions for Bog Walk Gorge E
ffective Monday, August 16, 2010, the National Works Agency (NWA) will be implementing major changes to the flow of traffic through the Bog Walk Gorge in St. Catherine. Starting next Monday, only south bound vehicles (those heading towards Spanish Town) will be allowed through the Gorge, between the hours of 7:00 am and 9:00 am on weekdays. Between the hours of 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm on weekdays, only north bound vehicles (those heading towards Bog Walk) will be allowed through access. Two - way traffic will be allowed at all other times.
Manager of Communication and Customer Services at the NWA, Stephen Shaw says the changes are being implemented for a period of six months, until January 2011, in order to facilitate the major pipe laying activity now being undertaken by the National Water Commission (NWC). During the period of restricted access to the Gorge, motorists are advised to use the alternative routes through Sligoville or Barry. The NWA/NWC are advising extreme caution while traversing all the corridors and suggests that posted warning signs, the instructions of flag persons and the police be observed.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Celebrating Jamaica’s Independence T
he Mandeville office of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission hosted the 48th celebration of Jamaica’s Independence on Friday, August 6, at the Mandeville Greens, in the town centre. The function began with a flagraising ceremony and featured the reading of messages from the Governor General, The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. The ceremony also included several cultural presentations and patriotic items as well as a keynote address by Rev. Robert Patmore, Pastor of the New Beulah Moravian Church, located in Mandeville. The commemoration ended with a march-past of uniformed groups including the police, fire department, girl guides and rangers. -Shereido Carter Above Right: Councillor Sally Porteous bringing the Prime Minister’s Message Right: Custos of Manchester, Hon. Dr. Gilbert Allen, represented the Governor General
Above: National Children’s Gospel Competition winner Jamielle Gilman performing a musical item Left: Members of the Mandeville Police participating in the Flagraising ceremony Right: Guest Speaker, Rev. Robert Patmore
Right: Her Worship Mayor Brenda Ramsay delivering the Leader of the Opposition’s message Below: A mom and daughter consult a copy of the programme
Above: A section of the gathering at the function Left: Young members of one of the uniformed groups participating in the ceremony Right: Officials reviewing the march-past of uniformed groups
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
Fenn Tech Expo B
usiness operators in the parish of Manchester are warming up to the need for marketing and many have been participating in various promotional events in the parish. The latest opportunity was a business fair organized by local computer company Fenn Tech, which was held at the Manchester High School recently. Businesses from a variety of sectors were on hand to show off their products and services and there were also several attractions geared at keeping the young and young at heart happy.
August 16 - 22, 2010
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Gov't gets $92M grant for social intervention T
he Government on August 13 received grant funding totaling more than $92 million from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), to be used to strengthen social intervention initiatives. Of the sum, $38.7 million (US$450,000) is for the modernisation of the School Feeding Programme, while the balance of $53.3 million (US$620,000) will go towards a technical cooperation agreement which will assist the Government in enhancing social spending and contribute to policy and institutional reforms. The components of the cooperation agreement will be carried out under a programme entitled: 'Understanding the Social Effects of the Financial Crisis'. At the signing ceremony held at the Ministry
of Finance and the Public Service's National Heroes Circle headquarters, portfolio Minister, Hon. Audley Shaw, expressed appreciation for the funding. He revealed that the support for school feeding is being provided from the Japan Special Fund through the IDB. He welcomed the support, noting that it would boost Government's efforts to expand the programme to students who do not benefit from the Programme for Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH). "The Government of Jamaica has placed considerable importance and premium on the nutritional side of our public education system and we made the decision last year to significantly expand the school feeding programme with another $1 billion," he said. Ambassador of Japan to Jamaica, Hiroshai
Yamaguchi, noted that the funding for the School Feeding Programme was indicative of his Government's commitment to supporting the young people of Jamaica. He said that the support will help improve school attendance and "bring great results to Jamaica's future leaders." Turning to the funding provided for the strengthening of the Government's capacity to provide social assistance, Minister Shaw said that the support is very timely. "It is aimed at improving the assessment of the impact of the financial crisis on vulnerable groups and this will include identifying various policy options to increase the productivity of firms in the informal sector, to assess the impact of the downturn in remittances on the economy, and to improve the effectiveness of
social spending," Mr. Shaw informed. IDB Country Representative to Jamaica, Gerard Johnson, in his remarks at the ceremony, said the programme is in line with the Government's decision to protect spending on health, education and the social safety net initiatives. "These are definitely linked into the strategy we have with the Government. It's all in the same vein, to protect the most vulnerable groups, to bring greater transparency and greater efficiency to the public sector," Mr. Johnson stated. The programme will be implemented through the IDB's Social Protection and Health Division, in partnership with the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).
Agriculture Minister on mission for more goat farms
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inister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, recently visited a number of farms in Canada to explore the possibility of using a Canadian model to set up more goat farms in Jamaica, with the aim of reducing the country's dependence on imported goat meat. On Monday, August 9, the Minister and his delegation toured several farms in Ontario and Quebec to get a first-hand look at what could be
replicated in Jamaica. The group visited Egberink Farms, a 500-head goat dairy operation owned by John and Noemi Oude Egberink; Henri Patenaude's goat farm; and the Gillette Dairy Farm, also owned by the Patenaude family which had approximately 1,200 head of cattle. The farm visits were facilitated by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAC) and the Canadian Livestock Genetics Association (CLGA). On Henri Patenaude's goat farm, his
regulates the Canadian dairy sector, setting prices and quota for milk and milk production. Giving an overview of the Canadian dairy sector, Market Development Officer for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lucille McFadden, said dairy production in Canada in 2009 generated total net farm receipts of C$5.5 billion. Dr. Tufton was on an official visit to Canada from August 3 to 11. Accompanying the Minister were High Commissioner to Canada, Her Excellency Sheila Sealy Monteith; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Donovan Stanberry; Chief Technical Director, Dr. Marc Panton; and Director of the Centre of Excellence for Advanced Technology in Agriculture (CEATA), Dr. Derrick Deslandes.
New tax waiver regime will welcome investors
Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw
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inister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw, said that the new tax waiver/incentive policy to be formulated will place emphasis on growth and will lay out the red carpet for investors committed to creating jobs for Jamaicans. "Anyone and any company, which is committed to investing, producing and creating jobs, a red carpet will be laid out for them," he said at the Wednesday August 11 post Cabinet press briefing held at Jamaica House. "It is going to be a policy that encourages investment and growth in the economy and it is going to
therefore highlight the manufacturing sector, the tourism sector, the agricultural sector and the information and communications sector. It is the productive sector of the economy that the Government will be placing much emphasis on," he stated. The Government is undertaking a review of the existing tax waiver/incentive regime with a view to coming up with a new policy and strategy by the end of December, that is in line with the developmental goals of the country. Until the implementation of the new policy, and in light of fiscal constraints, some general waiver conditions have been put in place. These interim measures include a freeze on new discretionary waivers, in keeping with commitments included in loan agreements with the multilateral lending agencies. The Minister stated that the review of the tax waiver regime was long overdue. "The truth is we needed to have a comprehensive review of our tax waiver policies because right now, everybody wants waivers and those who can't get waivers, there are all kinds of other mechanisms that has been devised including corruption at our ports, which we are dealing with, but a review of our tax waiver and incentive regime has been long overdue," he said.
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton (left), looking at some of the dairy goats belonging to goat farmer, John Oude Egberink when the Minister and his delegation visited the Egberink Goat Farms in Ontario, Canada, recently.
Boer goats are reared strictly for their meat, while on the Egberink Farms, about 300 goats are milked twice per day, with the milk going to a dairy co-operative. Mr. Oude Egberink told JIS News that he switched from cows to goats in 2007, as he and wife Noemi find goat rearing more profitable. Dr. Tufton was clearly impressed with the operations, noting that Egberink Farms was a clear demonstration of how farmers can work together and form co-operatives,
engaging in best practice technology. "We would like to replicate something like this in Jamaica, but on the scale that suits our market," said the Minister. "We have seen a private/public match to strategically sustain the dairy sector and also see why there is a need for strong professional producer organizations," he added. On a visit to the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC), Chief of Communications Services, Chantal Paul, said the 43-year-old agency
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton examines a kid being held by nine-year-old Luke Oude Egberink.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
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Dr. Tufton seeks markets/investors in Canada M
inister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, met on Thursday August 5 with Ontario's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Hon. Carol Mitchell, to discuss topics of mutual interest. The meeting, which took place at the Ontario Minister's offices in downtown Toronto, Canada, was also attended by Jamaica's Consul General to Toronto, George Ramocan, as well as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Donovan Stanberry, and Chief Technical Director in the Ministry, Dr. Marc Panton. Dr. Tufton, who was on an official visit to Canada from August 3 - 11, visited three cities - Toronto, Guelph and Ottawa and hopes to interest potential investors in Jamaica's agricultural sector as well as promote the export of Jamaican agricultural products. The Minister said he also looked at some of Canada's agricultural areas and possibly "form some alliances".
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton (left) paid a courtesy call on Ontario's Minister of Health Promotion, Jamaicanborn Margarett Best (centre), at her constituency office in Toronto, Canada. At right is Jamaica's Consul General to Toronto, George Ramocan. Dr. Tufton was on an official visit to Canada from August 3 - 11.
New appointments to Land Development and Utilisation Commission
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inister with responsibility for Information, Telecommunications and Special Projects, Daryl Vaz, says Cabinet has approved the membership of the Land Development and Utilisation Commission for three years from July 26, 2010. The Commissioners ensure that agricultural lands are properly developed and utilized.
The Commissioners are: Ms. Shirley Williams, Chairman - Chairman, National Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA), National Environmental and Planning Agency (NEPA), Business Executive Miss Denise Forrest - Environmental management consultant Miss Joy Douglas, CEO, Urban Development Corporation (UDC) Mr Peter Knight - CEO, NEPA Dr. Marc Panton - Chief Technical Director, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Mr Basil Fernandez - Managing Director, Water Resources Authority Mr Leslie Campbell - Attorney-at-law Mrs Elizabeth Stair - CEO, National Land Agency (NLA) Mr Derrick Hamilton - Hotelier
In Ottawa, Dr. Tufton met with his Federal counterpart, Canada's Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Gerry Ritz. He also visited several dairy and small ruminants farms; the Canadian Dairy Commission, which regulates the dairy industry; the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which safeguards Canada's food industry; and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA). Dr. Tufton noted that Jamaica's dairy industry lost ground because of subsidised imports, and hopes to get some technical support from Canada, not only for that sector, but also on "the traceability of foods", which is important for trading and Phyto-sanitation issues.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Bamboo’s deep, dark secret B
amboo Avenue, located between Middle Quarters and Lacovia, St. Elizabeth, is one of the most widely recognized natural attractions of Jamaica, up there with Dunn's River Falls and Fern Gull. Natural in may be, but native it certainly is not. Bamboo is actually endemic to Southeast Asia and was in fact introduced into Jamaica in 1773 by one Mr. M. Wallen, Esq., who had it planted in the Hope Botanical Gardens in Liguanea, St. Andrew. How and when bamboo found its way to St. Elizabeth is unknown, but then, the fast-growing plant can now be found in every parish. The fact that it originally served as an ornamental plant probably had some bearing on its rapid spread. Today, bamboo has become an invaluable resource and is used in a wide variety of sectors including furniture making, river rafting, jewellery making, architecture and construction. Bamboo however has a dark side. Able to grow up to 6 inches a day, the plant has proliferated uncontrollably into numerous local natural habitats, where it has been crowding out many indigenous plants, resulting in significant ecological damage. This is often caused by the branching nature of the species, which leads to shading of other vegetation, preventing sufficient sunlight from reaching them. Bamboo also has the ability to reproduce asexually, which gives it a significant advantage over other plants that depend on pollination. As a result, it has become the dominant species in many sensitive ecosystems
such as the Cockpit Country and the Blue Mountains. So the next time you pass through Bamboo Avenue, while you're marveling at the magnificence of the
spectacular canopy, spare a thought for the other species that may no longer be with us because of bamboo.
ATI10 Awesome
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
th Anniversary O
nce again, Negril came alive over the Emancipation weekend from Friday, July 30 to Monday, August 2, with the staging of Appleton Temptation Isle (ATI), which this year celebrated its 10 anniversary with a massive 10 events staged over the four-day period. Of course we had to be there to capture this historic event and here we bring you a peek of the excitement.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
The Auto Zone
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
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Billions disbursed to PATH beneficiaries last year F
or the 2009/10 financial year, a total of $2.5 billion was disbursed to the Programme of Advancement through Health and Education (PATH) beneficiaries. According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security's 2009/10 annual report which was tabled in the House of Representatives recently, the largest number of individuals
benefiting from PATH disbursements occurred in the fourth cycle (September to October 2009), when 323,898 persons received payments amounting to $484.94 million. "A total of 693 PATH students received the post secondary one-off payment (grant) of $15,000. The grants were disbursed from October 2009 to March 2010. The majority of
students who received the grants were from the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew, Clarendon and Manchester. An evaluation of the post secondary payment is being conducted to determine the demographic characteristics of the students who received the grants; the operational procedures relating to disbursement of the grants
and how the grants were used by the students," the document states. The report notes that one of the main objectives of PATH is the development of human capital. As a result, the Programme emphasises the importance of complying with the education and health conditionalities attached to the benefits. Compliance rates for both education and health beneficiaries for the period March to April, May to June and September to October 2009 averaged 85 to 90 per cent, but fell to 83 per cent in the last two payment cycles. Achievements of the programme during the 2009/10 period included the launch of a new Beneficiary Management Information System (BMIS) in October 2009, which allows the user to enter live transactions and view compliance and payment history as well as decentralisation of its operational procedures to improve the efficiency of its operations, including the processing of applications and the updating of beneficiary profiles. Grants disbursed from October 2009 to March 2010 totalled $10.395 million. Approximately 85 per cent of the 34,406 households selected for intervention were successfully re-certified and a performance audit was conducted in April 2009. The report states that strategies are being put in place to further enhance the capabilities of the programme during the 2010/11 financial year including developing and strengthening the databases of vulnerable
groups and welfare beneficiaries. This will be facilitated by the development of a national register of persons benefiting from social welfare. PATH is reaching 262,301 children and 97,699 adult beneficiaries each quarter; providing differential benefits to 196,000 recipients each quarter and providing bonus payments to 4,000 students. There soon will be a reassessment of PATH households to determine their eligibility for continued payment by the programme and the undertaking of at least 78 public education and awareness campaigns through various media channels. The promotion of economic selfsufficiency through the implementation of the 'Steps to Work' programme for poor households; increasing beneficiaries access to business support services, such as consultations provided by the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC); and assisting persons who have experienced some form of misfortune that interrupts income, are other projects to be undertaken by the agency. The PATH is a conditional cash transfer programme. It provides money to persons in poor households contingent on them making investments in their children's human capital through school attendance and the regular use of preventive health care services. PATH is a vital component of the Social Safety Net and steps are being made to constantly improve its efficiency.
New hurricane season, First copy of Child Health Passport same old problem presented to Minister Spencer Although efforts have been made to alleviate perennial flooding problems in the town of Mandeville, Ward Avenue, close to its intersec-
tion with Caledonia Road, continues to be a major challenge for motorists, as it becomes impassable whenever there is heavy rainfall.
Minister of Health, Hon. Rudyard Spencer is presented with the first copy of the new Child Health and Development Passport by Director of Family Health Services in the Ministry, Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell, during a handing over ceremony at the Ministry's offices in downtown, Kingston, on August 12. Looking on are (from left): Executive Director of the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), Winsome Johns-Gayle; Acting Community Intervention Manager at the ECC, Marsha Grant and Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sonia Copeland.
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inister of Health, Hon. Rudyard Spencer, was on August 12 presented with the first copy of the new Child Health and Development Passport, ahead of its official launch on August 18. The health passport, which will form an integral part of the country's
National Strategic Health Plan, is slated for implementation on September 1. The project is being carried out via a collaboration between the Early Childhood Commission (ECC) and the Ministry of Health and is expected to track the development of Jamaican children from birth
onwards, through the use of this document in place of the basic immunization cards. The passport will therefore contain comprehensive health records on children from birth up to age 17 years. Mr. Spencer, during the handing over ceremony at his office in downtown Kingston, congratulated the teams from the ECC and his Ministry on the successful development of the new initiative, which he said was "a tremendous job," completed in a relatively short time. According to Director of Family Health Services in the Ministry, Dr. Karen Lewis-Bell, the Child Health and Development Passport will become a requirement for all babies born on and after September 1 and will also incorporate the immunization records. Dr. Lewis-Bell noted that information to be included in the document would include medical history, nutrition guidelines, growth charts and educational and developmental tips for parents.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
JIS donates back-to-school items to Mount Olivet Boys Home the home on Saturday July 31 where they handed over the items and spent some quality time with the boys. Chief Executive Officer of the JIS, Donna MarieRowe, said that the agency was committed to assisting the home, which it adopted last December, to ensure that the boys realize their full potential. "We know how Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), Donna Marie- Rowe important it is to inspects khaki uniforms donated by Joseph's, which were handed over to the Mount Olivet Boys' Home in Manchester recently. Pointing out the features of the uniforms is invest in the lives Managing Director of Joseph's, Timothy Spencer. of our boys, to he Jamaica Information Service ensure that you grow up to be very significant (JIS), as part of its ongoing support to boys and men in our society, that they turn out the Mount Olivet Boys' Home in good and make a positive difference," she statManchester, has donated back-to-school ed. items including books and uniforms, to the Along with the educational items, the JIS 25 boys at the facility. brought along two guidance counsellors from More than 30 members of staff journeyed to the Ministry of Education to motivate the boys
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as they prepare for the new school year in September. The counsellors, Rev. Winston Nathan and Pastor Leon Walters, gave the boys tips on how to choose a career and how to deal with their problems. They also encouraged them to strive for success and to utilise their strengths in a positive way. Pastor Walters had commendations for the work that the JIS was doing at the Home. "It is the best thing that Donna Marie- Rowe, and Assistant Sales Manager of Novelty Trading could happen. With the Company Limited, Kevon Spence, peruse copies of texts, credibility that the JIS them words of support and encouragement. has in its national reach, it is the best agency "The board and all staff are happy that JIS that could have adopted the Home, and I hope stretched out its hands in partnership with us other stakeholders who see what JIS is doing, and have become a part of the Mount Olivet will join in the partnership," he expressed. family. I am thankful for the mentors, who have Meanwhile, newly appointed Director of the been phoning their mentees; the boys really Mount Olivet Boys' Home, Sonia Lowe, appreciate the help," she said. thanked the JIS team, which was making its Sponsorship for the educational items came third visit to the facility. She mentioned the from AzMart, Novelty Traders, Sangster's Book positive impact of the JIS staff, which contin- Store, whike uniforms were donated by ues to mentor the boys, and often call to offer Joseph's.
NCU grads urged to assist their communities
Former Minister of Education, Dr. Neville Gallimore (left), accepts an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, from President of Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Dr. Herbert Thompson, at the institution's graduation ceremony on August 15.
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ormer Minister of Education, Dr. Neville Gallimore has encouraged tertiary level graduates to give service to their communities, and to display integrity at their places of work. Dr. Gallimore, who served as Minister
of Education between 1986 and 1989, emphasised the need for graduates to reach out to their communities and help in their development. He was delivering the keynote address at Northern Caribbean University's (NCU) graduation ceremony, held on
August 15, at the institution's main campus, in Mandeville, Manchester. "My hope for you is that when you leave this institution with your qualifications, you will take along with you, strict honesty and integrity. Never compromise your integrity, Jamaica needs what you have, and as you depart to face the world of work, go out and work for your nation with knowledge, tenacity, compassion and love," he told the graduates. During the ceremony, Dr. Gallimore was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the university. In his message to the graduates, President of NCU, Dr. Herbert Thompson, said the occasion marked "the fulfillment of a lifelong dream - the beginning of a chosen career." He had praise for the Clarendon based alumina company, Jamalco, which was awarded the President's Medallion for service to education and the community. "Any company that has given so much to communities, and the development of education, as Jamalco has done, deserves this award," Dr. Thompson said. More than 900 students graduated from NCU this year. The institution has three campuses - Mandeville, Kingston, and Runaway Bay.
Government to phase out All-Age and Junior High schools
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inister of Education, Hon. Andrew Holness, has reiterated Government's commitment to phasing out All-Age and Junior High Schools, leaving primary schools for pre-secondary education above the early childhood level. Mr. Holness made the recommitment while addressing community members and other Government officials at the Fruitful Vale Primary School in Shrewsbury, Portland on Wednesday August 11, following a tour of the school.
Mr. Holness said that, as part of the education transformation programme, all schools being built will either be a 'full primary' or a 'full high school'. The process began in 2006 and the Minister committed himself to continuity in his 2009/10 Sectoral presentation in Parliament. According to him, based on the accountability framework now in place, it is expected that all students leaving primary school will score well enough in the Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) to qualify for placement in high schools.
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
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LASCO moving forward with Junior Stock Exchange listing plans LASCO Chairman Lascelles Chin
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on. Lascelles Chin, Executive Chairman of the LASCO affiliated companies, is commending the government on the establishment of the Jamaica Stock Exchange Junior Market (popularly called the Junior Stock Exchange). “Government created a wonderful opportunity by establishing the Junior Stock Exchange. By listing on that stock-exchange small and medium-sized companies like the LASCO affiliated companies can maximize our potential in terms of growth and sales, while tapping into a wider revenue pool for rapid expansion,” said Mr. Chin. He also announced that three reorganised LASCO affiliated companies - namely LASCO Distributors Ltd., LASCO Manufacturing Ltd. and LASCO Financial Services Ltd., each intend to be listed on the Junior Stock Exchange soon. The Chairman explained that the reorganisation of these particular LASCO companies would result in greater operational efficiency, and allow the companies to raise additional financing through equity, thereby allowing LASCO (via LASCO Manufacturing's export arm, the newly created International Division) to establish its presence in the African markets, expand its European markets, and increase its presence in North America and Latin America.
In respect of LASCO Manufacturing and LASCO Distributors, Mr. Chin added, “We are also putting all measures in place to leverage our large distribution network to further penetrate the local, regional and international markets in increased multiple categories.” The Chairman is quietly confident that new jobs will be created in these LASCO entities, as a result of the potential growth of the companies proposed to list on the Junior Stock Exchange. The three LASCO affiliated companies that are proposing to list on the Junior Stock Exchange are aiming to raise in excess of $400 million from the listing, thus allowing them to increase the number of products that continue to provide value for the Jamaican public. “All funds raised will be used for future expansion and support of the strategic plans,” Mr. Chin reiterated. The Chairman explained that, LASCO Manufacturing intends to build new manufacturing facilities, and increase the diversification of its operations to meet global demands. Each of the three LASCO affiliated companies to be listed is a small or medium sized entity. Contrary to public perception, LASCO is not one large company. Prior to the current reorganisation LASCO consisted of 8 small or medium sized entities that are affiliated because of the fact that they share a common name and because they are under the common control of the Hon. Lascelles Chin. Following the reorganisation there will be five companies inclusive of those to be listed: LASCO Distributors as a stand-alone entity; LASCO Manufacturing as an amalgamated entity consisting of two businesses, and LASCO Financial Services an amalgamated entity consisting of three LASCO entities. Each business is a strong candidate for the Junior Stock Exchange, which allows small and medium sized companies to access capital for growth at favourable terms including tax concessions, which might not otherwise be available and which allows for reinvestment.
Company Profiles Dr. Eileen Chin, Managing Director of LASCO Manufacturing Ltd. (which is an amalgamation of LASCO Foods Limited and LASCO Foods (Successors) Ltd), has reported that the company enjoyed 83% growth in sales during the last 5 years. She pointed out that 91% of the products manufactured are being channelled into the local market. Dr. Chin said financing raised on the Stock Exchange will allow LASCO Manufacturing to increase its manufacturing capabilities, with the goal of increasing both local and international sales.
Remittance Services, LASCO Financial Services and LASCO Properties. Giving an update on the performance of LASCO Financial Services Ltd., Managing Director Mrs. Jacinth Hall-Tracey, announced that LASCO Moneygram is the market leader in both outbound and inbound money transfers in Jamaica and ranks among the top two in the Caribbean. She revealed that the company is seeking to expand its operations in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, as well as in the key Diaspora markets of South Florida and the United Kingdom.
Managing Director of LASCO Distributors Ltd. Mr. Anthony Chang announced that the company is the market leader in Jamaica in Fortified Drink, Food Drink, Infant Formula and Whole Milk Powder. He said LASCO also has a strong market position in the categories of Bath Soaps, Adult Diapers, Canned Beans and Canned Vegetables, as well as Jack Mackerel. Mr. Chang expressed confidence that LASCO Distributors has all the necessary ingredients for increasing its market share, penetration and sales of its products. “We will be strengthening the product value proposition and brand awareness through enhanced marketing. We also intend to gain greater channel satisfaction through improved service delivery and relationship programmes,” stated Mr. Chang.
Availability of Shares Shares in these respective entities will be available through Initial Public Offers (IPO) to the general public on a first come, first served basis. There will however be reserved shares for members of the Jamaica Teachers Association, Nurses' Association of Jamaica, Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons, key customers and suppliers, and the staff of LASCO companies. In this respect, President of the Nurses Association of Jamaica, Edith Allwood Anderson, has endorsed the programme. “Once again LASCO has shown its particular interest and support for improving the welfare of the nurses and other public sector workers,” she declared. She said the nurses are heartened by this gesture from the LASCO affiliated companies, and that it shows a belief in Jamaica and Jamaicans.
LASCO Financial Services Ltd. is an amalgamation of the former businesses of LASCO
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Jamaican dollar revalues sharply in First Quarter T
Governor of the Bank of Jamaica (BoJ), Brian Wynter (left), outlines the monetary policy and trends for the June 2010 quarter, at the Bank's quarterly press briefing, in downtown Kingston, today August 12. Also participating in the briefing are: Deputy Governor, Research and Economic Programming and Banking and Market Operations, Mrtyle Halsall, and Deputy Governor, Finance and Technology Payment Systems, Investment and Risk Management, Livingstone Morrison.
he Jamaican dollar experienced its sharpest quarterly appreciation since the June quarter of 1996, strengthening by 4.1 per cent for the just ended quarter. "The strongest appreciation occurred in June when the exchange rate strengthened by 2.9 per cent or $2.46, influenced largely by increased investor preference for Jamaican dollar assets. The preference for Jamaican dollar assets was reflected in increased net private capital inflows, the impact of which more than offset the demand for resources to meet current transactions," Bank of Jamaica (BoJ) Governor, Brian Wynter told the August 12 quarterly press briefing at the Bank, in downtown Kingston. He explained that in order to "smooth the pace of movement in the exchange rate," the bank had purchased some US$54 million from the market during the quarter. This contributed to a Net International Reserves (NIR) level of
Dollar appreciation good for Jamaica -IMF Rep
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International enior Monetary Fund (IMF) Resident Representative in Jamaica, Dr. Gene Leon, said that the appreciation of the Jamaican dollar offers significant long- term benefits for business interests, Government and the country on the whole. Speaking at the Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA) Breakfast Forum on Wednesday August 11 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, Dr. Leon cited concerns by private sector stakeholders who point to the negative effect the appreciation will have on their business. Having devalued from $70 in 2008 to $90 up to the first quarter of 2010, the Jamaican dollar started to appreciate in April, and currently trades for about $86 to the United States (US) dollar. Dr. Leon said that some interests are "crying foul as to how much they were hurting because the exchange rate had moved down $4."
"I agree that if I was getting $90 for every US dollar, and I'm now getting $8(6). your profits are likely to be hurt, initially. Your decisions on production are likely to take a beating. But that's a production implication of a movement in the nominal exchange rate. What about imports? Imports are going to cost less. So your inputs, if you are getting them from outside, will cost less," he argued. He further pointed to the "balance sheet effect," contending that interests and entities, including the Government, who have external financial obligations to meet in foreign exchange, would require less local currency to settle commitments. "That's a plus, (because) that now helps in terms of providing a little more room for the Government to be able to do some other things. What if the banks have borrowed (from) overseas...they have to pay back. They are probably thinking this appreciation is a good thing," he
said. In addition, he said, the inflationary pressure is likely to be reduced, which will benefit workers, as their purchasing power is maintained more because prices are not moving as fast. "The bottom line of all of this is you have to take a broader view at (the) external stability driving the country's position versus the rest of the world," the IMF official stated. In this regard, Dr. Leon stressed the need for collaboration among private and public sector stakeholders and expressed the hope that the provisions of the 27-month US$2.4 billion Standby Agreement, which the Government negotiated with the IMF, can bring the various elements together in a way to address "at least in the short-term, the imbalance that you have, and lay the foundation for stronger growth going forward."
Senior International Monetary Fund (IMF) Resident Representative to Jamaica, Dr. Gene Leon, addressing the Jamaica Exporters' Association (JEA) Breakfast Forum at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on August 11.
US$1.79 billion as at the end of June. "At end-June 2010, the Bank's gross revenues amounted to US$2,52 billion, representing 19.7 weeks of projected imports of goods and services, surpassing the benchmark of 12 weeks of imports," he said. Meanwhile, he informed that marketdriven interest rates declined over the period alongside the appreciation of the local currency. The average yield on the benchmark 180-day Treasury Bill fell by 123 basis points to 9.26 per cent, while the yield on the 90-day instrument declined by 166 basis points to 8.52 per cent. "Concurrent with the lower yields, there was continued narrowing in the spreads between government of Jamaica global bonds and emerging market bonds and US Treasuries, respectively," he explained. Private money market rates also reflected this declining trend, Mr. Wynter noted.
Jobs through growth -Min. Shaw Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Audley Shaw at the Post Cabinet press conference on Wednesday, August 11 said the US$460 million Chinese funded road improvement programme is to start in two weeks and other investment projects that will create jobs will come on stream shortly. “There are certain things that we have in line that will be part of the scenario for growth. The US$460 million Chinese road improvement programme is set to start in a matter of two weeks, the Falmouth cruise ship pier is well underway, downtown Kingston is about to come alive. We already see where the Digicel has lined out and have started driving their piles in relation to that investment. There are buildings lined up also for Downtown Kingston. The Casino legislation has been passed and I now have before me one application for a casino licence by one of the major entities on the North Coast. And we expect that the major project, Harmony Cove, will be in line as a result of the casino decision by Government.�
MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
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Imagine Cup teams honoured (NCU) Team Xormis, which won the Microsoft Image Interoperability world award in Poland last month, as well as NCU's Team Educ8, which had won the national and regional titles earlier. He was speaking at a luncheon hosted by the Government in honour of both teams' outstanding achievements, held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on Wednesday, August 11. The Minister said that the teams had demonstrated that with diligence and consistency, as well as the good old Jamaican ingenuity, Jamaica has the potential to gain a competitive advantage in the development of software applicaPrime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding (left) makes a point to Minister with responsibility for Information, Telecommunications and Special tions for myriad of uses worldwide. Projects, Hon. Daryl Vaz (centre), and President of the Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Dr. Herbert Thompson (left) during a He credited the empowerment luncheon in honour of the NCU's Microsoft Imagine Cup teams at the of Jamaicans through ICT trainJamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on Wednesday, August 11. ing as the first step in that direcinister with responsibility for tion noting that, through the e-learning proInformation, Telecommunications gramme, the Government was providing stuand Special Projects, the Hon dents with equipment to access and connect to Daryl Vaz, believes Jamaica has the poten- the vast and fertile learning ground of the tial to gain a competitive edge in developing Internet, to further develop the nation's capasoftware applications for global use. bilities in that sector. Mr. Vaz made the comment while praising Education Minister, Hon. Andrew Holness, the success of Northern Caribbean University's said the achievements of the two teams were a
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Chairman of the Northern Caribbean University's (NCU) Department of Computer and Information Sciences, Kenrie Hylton, (left - podium) introduces the Microsoft Imagine Cup 2010 World Champions, Team Xormis and Regional Champions, Team Educ8.
definite plus for education in Jamaica, and were indicative of the improvements in the tertiary sector over the last few years. "We're seeing the University of the West Indies making progress in research; we're seeing the University of Technology expanding in training; and (now) we're seeing NCU developing a strong research arm in Information Technology," he explained. "It is clear that NCU is marking out its niche and, Members of the Northern Caribbean University's (NCU) folk ensemble for that, I am very pleased, perform a medley of cultural songs during during the luncheon in honour because the broadening of of the NCU's Microsoft Imagine Cup teams. the tertiary sector is very up their regional success in Poland and Team important for national development," he Xormis, who were second in the region but added. moved ahead to win the world title for Mr. Holness also challenged tertiary institu- Interoperability ahead of Brazil's Uptiva tions to translate their research into marketable Dreams IT and Chandradimuka, Indonesia. ideas, through which the country's economy Some 325,000 students from more than 100 can develop. countries around the world participated. Microsoft's representative in Jamaica, Joseph Team Xormis' entry was described as a McKinson, said that NCU's performance was matchmaker that coupled significant and pernothing short of consistent, outstanding and vasive problems with the appropriate solution exemplary. providers. The team included Dwayne "At Microsoft we are in awe of these incred- Samuels, Markel Mairs, Shawn McLean and ibly talented NCU students, as every year the Derron Brown. bar is set higher and yet the NCU team has Team Educ8 developed software for primary consistently done well and has also made school students, called the Electronic School Jamaica proud," he remarked. Computer Aid for Primary Education The Imagine Cup, billed as "the world's pre- (eSCAPE), geared at improving literacy in primier student technology competition," is now mary schools. Team Educ8 included Trevor in its eighth year. The 2010 event challenged Williams, Trecia Thompson, Warren Robinson young people to apply their "magination, their and Caray McKenzie. passion, and their creativity to bring to life technology innovations that could make a difference in the world. The competition has several categories in which students can participate. This year, NCU had two teams in the world Team finals Educ8, which was unable to duplicate
Stern urges greater use of technology by SMEs
Japan's Ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Hiroshi Yamaguchi (2nd left), has the attention of (from left) Resident Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency(JICA)/ Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV), Kineo Nishiyama; Minister of State for Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Marlene Malahoo Forte; and Permanent Secretary in the Investment Ministry, Reginald Budhan, at JICA's seminar on small and medium enterprise development held on August 11 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston.
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inister of State for Investment Industry, and Commerce, Hon. Michael Stern, is urging greater use of technology by small and medium-sized enterprises (SME).
He stated that Information Communication Technologies (ICT) play a critical role in improving internal business processes as well as interface with various stakeholders. "We need to focus on the role of
information and communication technologies in facilitating SMEs as the world moves towards e-business. In particular, those SMEs that specialise in the production of low volume, high value niche products, will be ideally positioned to benefit from the marketing and distribution advantages offered through e-commerce," he said. The State Minister, who was speaking at the Japan International Cooperation Agency's (JICA) seminar on small and medium enterprise development on August 11 at the Knutsford Court Hotel in Kingston, said that most SME operations tend to be characterised by low technology use due to a number of factors such as the cost of the required tools. "Therefore, we need not only to promote greater use of technology by our SMEs, but also look at how we can make the technology more affordable," he stated. Turning to Government assistance
to the sector, Mr. Stern said that the Ministry has been spearheading efforts to introduce financing options for SMEs, which would be less dependent on the traditional collateral, and continues to provide funding to micro credit institutions to facilitate affordable lending.
"It is within this context that we continue to facilitate the establishment of a credit bureau in Jamaica in order to furnish financial intermediaries with necessary information to assist in their assessment of the credit worthiness of SMEs," he said.
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MANCHESTER & SOUTH COAST NEWS
August 16 - 22, 2010
Heart Institute of Carib., Winchester Surgical sign MoU with UTech Sports UTech signs MoU: Professor Errol Morrison (centre seated) signs the MoU on behalf of UTech while Dr. Ernest Madu (2nd L) signs on behalf of the Heart Institute of the Caribbean and Dr. Neville Walton signs on behalf of the Winchester Surgical and Medical Institute. Looking on are Dr. Eugenie Brown-Myrie (standing L) - Dean College of Health Sciences and Dr. Colin Gyles - Acting Dean Faculty of Sciences & Sport. Professor Assok Kulkarni VP Utech also signs on behalf of the university.
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Tech's athletes, the sporting community both locally and abroad as well as the general public, stand to benefit from two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed on Thursday August 19 at the Lillian's Restaurant on the university's campus. The MoUs were signed between UTech and the Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) and the Winchester Surgical and Medical Institute (WSMI) to explore opportunities for collaboration in a variety of areas related to research, academic programmes and training. Anthony Davis, Director of Sports at UTech,
indicated that the university will benefit significantly by being able to test their athletes during the athletic season. “This will assist us by having screening tests for our athletes before they actually start training and while they are training, if anybody develop any problem then we can have them assessed and the appropriate remedy designed for them. It is just another step to ensure that we have a total support system for our student athletes,” Mr. Davis said. Professor Errol Morrison, President of UTech, articulated the benefit of the signing of the MoUs between the organizations.
“We want to ensure that not only have we established a faculty that will study the scientific underpinning of sports and sports performance, sports management, the business of sports but we want to ensure the preparation of our athletes best possible physical fitness and the mental condition as well. What this health care link will now bring through the Heart Institute of the Caribbean is the assessment of heart which is major under pinning or performance.” He also expressed his delight at the minimal invasive surgery techniques that WSMI will use in the treatment of a number of problems which in former years would required major incisions and interventions, so athletes can undergo surgery and return to training in a shorter time. “So we are serious about the total embracing envelop of sport, the performance, the study, the care and this collaboration brings it all together,” Professor Morrison said. The signing of the MoUs comes against the background of the establishment of the Caribbean School of Sport Science which UTech Sports Department
will begin classes soon, with over seventy five students enrolled, according to Dr. Colin Gyles, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Science & Sport. Already the faculty has seen an over-subscription of applications and will have a waiting list when the classes begin in September. The Hearth Institute of the Caribbean is the premier centre for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases in the Caribbean. Under the MoU, the institution will share information on research and programmes in cardiovascular medicine and sports physiology. The Winchester Surgical and Medical Institute is a one-stop health care facility - the only of its kind in the Caribbean, offering a wide range of surgical and medical services with specialization in ambulatory surgery.