Portland Can, must "Come From Behind"C

On occasion of Jamaica 50,Milton Samuda – JCC president, used analogy of our world-beating athletes to examine the position of Jamaica socially, economically and politically, and to put a charge before the membership of the Portland Camber of Commerce during their 1st qtrly meeting for 2012, at the Errol Flynn marina.

"We have to develop the ability, like Veronica Campbell, to win whether she's running from behind or in front."

While praising the athletes, Mr Samuda also said they were "distractions" - taking some focus away from the pressing issue of national failure in other aspects. While there are many moments of national pride, taken as a whole, the occasion of 50 years should really make us hang or heads in shame as we have not realized the enormous potential so obvious at our Independence"

In a wide-ranging address, he spoke of the paramount importance of responsibility, and that he was adamant that parish chambers must become stronger, otherwise the national movement is weaker.

PCC president DaneyAnn Thomas

He praised Portland as a  reemerging Chamber and also lauded the leadership - early in the term - of new president DaneyAnne Thomas;  "I urge and plead for you to ensure that movement is fostered"

Economically, Samuda said it would be in Govt's best interest to divest itself of certain services, in order to save critical jobs and drive economy to greater competitiveness. The Penal system and  Places of safety being just 2 examples;

Another striking theme of the address is that with certain decisions now being "made for us instead of by us, Jamaica - including Portland - is now out of time"