PM stresses need for public investment to ensure development

 

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has restated the importance of public investment to ensure development.

 

He was speaking Tuesday at the naming and commissioning of the vessel HMJS Marcus Garvey.

 

Prime Minister Holness said the lack of consistent and deliberate investments in critical institutions such as the Jamaica Defence Force left the country vulnerable to a wide range of threats.

 

He said over the last nine years, there has been an increase in the investment in the JDF. 

 

"I have had the distinct honour of commissioning five vessels since 2016, with HMJS Marcus Garvey being the sixth. We have also procured aircrafts, patrol vessels, armoured vehicles, radar systems, and cyber forensic labs and enhanced digital surveillance capabilities as well as expanded the fleet of vehicles of the JDF. These investments represent our government's commitment to enhancing Jamaica's peace, productivity, and prosperity. The importance of investing in our own institutions cannot be stated enough," he insisted. 

 

Mr. Holness said a lack of investment in the institutions has significant implications for the stability of the country. 

 

"A state that neglects its institutions risks not only its physical security but also the very foundation of a living and vibrant democracy. Robust institutions

are the pillars upon which a stable, prosperous society is built. They ensure the rule of law, protection of our citizens, and provide essential services that contribute to well-being. When a government fails to invest in its institutions, it creates vulnerabilities that can be exploited by internal and external forces. Weak institutions are less capable of responding to crises, whether they are natural disasters, economic downturn, or security threats," he reasoned.