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HIGH COMMISSION FOR JAMAICA

PORT OF SPAIN

June 2016

I N S I D E :

Role of the Jamaican High Commission

The High Commission for Jamaica in Trinidad and Tobago is accredited to some sixteen countries across the Caribbean region and is committed to:

Deepening bilateral relations and cooperation in countries under our jurisdiction;

Protecting the interest of Jamaican nationals; Providing consular services to Jamaicans and persons visiting Jamaica; Engaging the Jamaican Diaspora; Monitoring and reporting on political and socio-economic developments; Identifying opportunities for increased trade and investment; and Promoting Jamaican creative industries such as art, film, fashion, cuisine,

music, and theatre.

Role of the High Commission ……………1

Meet the New Foreign Minister ………….2

Bilateral Relations: …………………....3-10 Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago Consular Corner………………….......11-14

Diaspora Engagement ………………15-20

Meeting with UWI Students……………..21

Regional Meetings and Activities

21st ACS Ministerial Council……..22-23

27th Meeting of CARICOM Heads…..24

4th Meeting of the Caribbean ……….25

Development Roundtable 26

th Session of the Caribbean ……...26

Development & Cooperation Committee (CDCC) & the Economic Commission for Latin America & the Caribbean (ECLAC) 19

th COFCOR…………………………27

VII ACS Summit ……………………...28

Cultural Activities …………………….29-34

International Spotlight on Jamaica …… 35

Expo Jamaica 2016……………………...36 Tribute to H.E. Paul Robotham…….…...37

Tribute to Professor Norman ……….38-39 Girvan Staff Corner …………………………..40-43

Jamaica Yellow Fever Advisory ………..44

General Information ……………………..45

Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago established diplomatic relations in 1963. Both

countries have worked together in the context of CARICOM as founding members,

in various regional and multilateral fora and at the bilateral level.

In recent times, work has been conducted through bilateral consultations between

both countries, with a view to the continuous enhancement of relations.

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On Tuesday, 8th

March 2016, International Women’s Day,

Senator Kamina Johnson Smith assumed duties as

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

Senator Johnson Smith is the first woman in the history of

Jamaica to hold this portfolio and the first Foreign Minister

to be born after Jamaica’s Independence in 1962.

Academic Background

Bachelor of Arts in French and International Relations,

University of the West Indies

Bachelor of Laws Degree, University of the West Indies

Master of Laws in Commercial Law, London School of

Economics and Political Science

Certificate in Legal and Diplomatic French, Guadeloupe

Certificate in Negotiation, Harvard Law School

Hobbies

Sports, Yoga, Reading and Dance.

Meet the New Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

Senator the Honourable Kamina

Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign

Affairs and Foreign Trade

Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, meets with

High Commissioner David Prendergast during his visit to Kingston on 11th

March 2016.

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Senator the Honorable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Jamaica, meets briefly with Senator the Honorable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago, at the Piarco International Airport on 11

th May 2016.

EXCERPT FROM STATEMENT BY SENATOR THE HONORABLE KAMINA JOHNSON SMITH, MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND FOREIGN TRADE, JAMAICA ON

"TREATMENT OF JAMAICAN NATIONALS TRAVELLING TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO” Mr. President, Let me now address recent developments surrounding the treatment of Jamaican nationals travelling to Trinidad and Tobago within the framework of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). We note that 326 Jamaicans were refused entry to Trinidad and Tobago during 2015. In the first quarter of this year (Jan – March 2016), 113 Jamaicans were denied entry to that country. Several of them complained, via public media, of mistreatment both at the Immigration point as well as during their stay overnight at the Piarco International Airport while awaiting a return flight to Jamaica on the following day. Jamaica has sought to deal with the issue at both the bilateral and regional levels... In a letter dated 27

th April, Minister Moses advised me of certain steps to be taken by his Administration, by the

latest July 2016, to improve the situation at the Piarco International Airport. These include: (i) the convening in June 2016 of a customer service training workshop for airport staff, including immigration officials and other frontline employees, such as security and other airport personnel who interact on a daily basis with passengers, including those who are denied entry and detained overnight while awaiting return; and (ii) retro-fitting of a dedicated facility at the airport where persons, including Jamaicans, can be appropriately

accommodated overnight while awaiting return flights to their countries of origin. Minister Moses also indicated that there are on-going improvements of the facilities at the Piarco International Airport for in-transit passengers in general.

The response by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is viewed as an initial positive step towards dealing with the issue of free movement, which has dominated Jamaica’s bilateral relations with that country over the last few years. Minister Moses has assured me of his continued personal involvement in addressing the issues and

commitment to treat with any further problems that may arise…

Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago

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Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago

The Most Hon. Andrew Holness and the Hon. Keith Rowley, Prime Ministers of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago respectively, held a bilateral meeting in Havana, Cuba on 4th June 2016. Issues discussed included immigration, petroleum pricing and other matters relating to CARICOM.

High Commissioner David Prendergast addresses immigration matters between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago on C-TV News, 15

th April 2016.

High Commissioner David Prendergast prepares to address immigration matters between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago with Journalist Mr. Vashan Brown of Television Jamaica- TVJ, 22

nd April 2016.

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Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago~ Sport

On 4th April 2016 H.E. David Prendergast paid a courtesy

call on the Hon. Darryl Smith, Minister of Sport and

Youth Affairs, to discuss forging a better relationship

between the two countries in the field of sport.

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Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago~

Campaign Finance Reform Strengthen Relations

Jamaican experts participated in and made valuable contributions to the Forum on Campaign

Finance Reform, convened by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago at the

Hyatt Regency Hotel, Port of Spain, during the period 18th-19th May 2016.

Professor the Hon. Errol Miller, O.J., C.D., former Chairman of the Electoral Commission of

Jamaica and Ms. Pauline Welsh, Director, Legal Affairs, Research & Development of the

Electoral Commission of Jamaica, shared experiences, best practices and perspectives on

Campaign Finance Reform. Jamaican national Dr. Tres-Anne Kremer, a Political Adviser for the

Craibbean and Pacific Region in the Commonwealth Secretariat, also presented on behalf of the

Secretariat at the Forum.

Deputy Speaker, Mr Esmond Forde, MP, shows Jamaican Dr. Tres-Ann Kremer (left) and Ms. Clara Cole (right), from the Commonwealth Secretariat, around the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament Chamber. Both ladies had participated in the Forum on Campaign Finance Reform.

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Official Visit of the Hon. Olivia Grange Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports

8th-10th June 2016

The Honourable Olivia Grange, M.P. was a featured presenter at the Caribbean Creative Industries Management

Unit Workshop, held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on 9th June 2016. Minister Grange pointed out that

through collaboration with neighbouring territories, Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean would be able to

enhance their cultural and creative industries, which will contribute to the growth and development of the region.

While in Trinidad and Tobago, Minister Grange also held bilateral talks with her counterpart Ministers- the Hon.

Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, and the Hon. Darryl Smith, Minister

of Sport and Youth Affairs.

Minister Grange also engaged in talks with celebrated Carnival Artist Designer Mr. Peter Minshall. Discussions

focused on possible collaboration on the staging of Jamaica’s upcoming Independence Grand Gala celebrations.

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Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago~ Community Tourism

Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Mrs. Marguerite Diana McKintyre-Pike presented in the Second

Caribbean Conference of National Trusts and Preservation Societies which was held from 19th-21st May

2016 at the Hilton Hotel, Trinidad and Tobago.

Mrs. McKintyre-Pike is no stranger to the Twin Island Republic as just last year she spearheaded rural

community tourism training in the community of Lopinot. This was organized by the Lopinot Countrystyle

Community Tourism Heritage Village with support from the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

As pointed out by Ms. Michele Celestine, Co-ordinator of the National Heritage Trust Programme, the aim of

Countrystyle Community Tourism is to ensure that every household in villages can eventually earn their

living by marketing what they have to local and foreign visitors- whether it be craft, food, or a place to stay.

Mrs. McKintyre-Pike expects to return to Trinidad and Tobago in July 2106 to assist the community of

Paramin with training in community tourism entrepreneurship. Similar training will also be carried out in

Tobago. Collaboration between community tourism destinations in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago is

expected to gain momentum as Countrystyle Community Experience vacation and tour packages are being

developed for Trinidad and Tobago with a tour partner in Jamaica- CARIBIC/OLYMPIA TOURS.

L-R: Mrs. Marguerite Diana McIntyre Pike,

Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Co-

ordinator and Michele Celestine,

Coordinator, National Heritage Trust

Programme, Trinidad and Tobago.

Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Mrs.

Marguerite Diana McIntyre-Pike pays a courtesy call

on High Commissioner David Prendergast.

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Tourism Linkages~ Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago

On 26th January 2016 Jamaican hotel magnate Mr. Gordon “Butch” Stewart, the founder and chairman of the Sandals and Beaches all-inclusive chain of resorts, visited Tobago at the invitation of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

Mr. Stewart viewed a number of real estate properties in Tobago, with a possible view to investing in the island. He was accompanied by Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly Mr. Orville London, Deputy Chief Secretary and Secretary for Tourism and Transportation Ms. Tracy Davidson-Celestine, Minister of Tourism Ms. Shamfa Cudjoe, Administrator for Tourism Ms. Cheryl-Ann Solomon and other senior tourism officials.

According to Minister Cudjoe, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago considered the visit as potentially being “a major game-changer’ for tourism and the people of Tobago… if Tobago is considered this will be of great benefit to all of us”.

In June 2016 it was further announced that a 750-room Sandals Resorts was being considered for Tobago.

The Sandals brand is one of the most well-known and award-winning hospitality companies in the world. It has five brands and twenty-four properties in seven countries. The company remains fiercely committed to the Caribbean region.

Jamaican Hotelier Mr. Gordon “Butch” Stewart (centre) tours hotel properties in Tobago along with officials from the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. © Photo (Daily Express)

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Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines

On Wednesday, 11th May 2016 H.E. David Prendergast presented his Letter of

Introduction as Jamaica’s High Commissioner to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to

Dr. the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Following the presentation, discussions were held on the longstanding and

continued cordial relations between both countries at the bilateral, regional and

multilateral levels.

While in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the High Commissioner also met with the

Foreign Minister Sir Louis Straker, as well as the Honorary Consul for Jamaica Mrs.

Morine Williams.

High Commissioner David Prendergast alongside students from the St. Vincent Boys’ Grammar School and the St. Vincent Girls’ High School.

(L-R): Honorary Consul for Jamaica in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mrs. Morine Williams and H.E. David Prendergast.

A third generation breadfruit tree- sucker from the original plant brought by Captain William Bligh (of Bounty fame) in 1793 to St. Vincent and the Grenadines Botanic Gardens. Today the breadfruit is one of the most useful food plants throughout the West Indies.

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Consular Missions

During the period 2nd-7th May 2016, Ms. Delita McCallum- Counsellor in the High Commission for Jamaica- undertook Consular Missions to Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda. Issues covered related to consular matters including Passport, Citizenship and Visa applications as well as Diaspora engagement.

While in Antigua, Ms. McCallum visited Her Majesty’s Prison and met with the twenty-seven (27) Jamaicans housed there. An interactive Town Hall Meeting with a consular presentation was also conducted. During the meeting, practical information about the process of obtaining, renewing or replacing a Jamaican passport, was outlined. The High Commission’s efforts to secure the services of an Honorary Consul for Jamaica in Antigua & Barbuda were also communicated. Additionally, the Jamaican community was urged to re-launch the Jamaican Association in Antigua and Barbuda.

Similar meetings were conducted in Barbados at the Clement Payne Cultural Centre. This was coordinated through the Jamaican Association in Barbados (JAMBAR). Efforts to appoint an Honorary Consul were also outlined. Ms. McCallum also visited with the thirty-five (35) Jamaican nationals housed at Her Majesty’s Prison Dodds.

Ms. Delita McCallum, Counsellor, addresses the Jamaican

community during a Town Hall Meeting at the Clement

Payne Cultural Centre, Barbados.

LOCAL CONSULAR VISITS

Regular consular visits are undertaken

by the High Commission to the

following detention and correctional

facilities in Trinidad and Tobago:

Immigration Detention Centre

Port of Spain Prison Golden Grove Women’s Prison

Maximum Security Prison

Eastern Correctional Rehabilitation

Centre

Recent visits have also been made

to Jamaican nationals at the

St. Ann’s and Mount Hope

Hospitals.

Visits are again scheduled in the

coming weeks.

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Consular Missions

LOCAL CONSULAR

VISITS

Counsellor, Delita McCallum

prepares supplies for one of

her many consular visits

with nationals at the

Immigration Detention

Centre and the Eastern

Correctional Rehabilitation

Centre in Trinidad and

Tobago.

The Immigration Detention

Centre in Aripo.

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Consular Corner Q&A

Who may certify a passport application and photos

overseas?

Justice of the Peace Attorney-at-law Notary Public Medical Doctor Minister of Religion

authorized to perform marriages

Do you need to travel

urgently but have no valid passport?

Apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate from us! Present Jamaican

Identification Complete passport

application form and make payment

Submit two (2) photos

Present travel itinerary

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Consular Corner Q&A

FOR LOST, DAMAGED OR STOLEN PASSPORTS, SUBMIT THE

FOLLOWING:

Completed passport application form and payment

Official police report

Birth Certificate/Adoption Certificate or Jamaican Citizenship Certificate

Two (2) identical Photographs (one photograph must be certified by the same certifying official who certified your application)

A valid Government issued Photo Identification (Example: Drivers License, Voter Identification)

Proof of name change if name has been changed (Marriage Certificate, Deed Poll, Divorce Decree, Court Order)

DID YOU KNOW?

Sending your passport through

the mail to a relative is illegal

and the documents will be

confiscated. Renew it overseas

at the nearest Jamaican

Consulate/Mission.

DID YOU KNOW?

Children of Jamaican nationals qualify for Unconditional Landing

status. Apply at PICA and never worry

about overstaying while visiting Jamaica!

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Did you know?

Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago established diplomatic

relations in 1963- one year after both countries gained

their independence in 1962.

Diaspora Engagement: Jamaican Business Mingle

On 26th March 2016 a Jamaican Business Mingle was held on the grounds of the High Commission. An invitation to

the mingle was extended to all Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica, to facilitate networking and the creation of a

directory of Jamaicans in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Mingle, organized by the group Jamaicans in Trinidad and Tobago, was a great success.

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Diaspora Engagement: Jamaican Business Mingle

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In celebration of World Health Day, an informative and interactive evening on Health & Wellness was held on the grounds of the High Commission for Jamaica on 8th April 2016.

Attendees benefitted from presentations by Dr. Roger Lue Chin, Mrs. Veronica Roache and Dr. Peter Weller. Topics included Culture, Stress & Self Care, What You Need to Know about Cancer, and How to Stay Healthy.

Surprise guest artiste, Mr. Helon Francis, winner of the 32nd Annual Young Kings Calypso Monarch, also provided entertainment for the audience with his hit songs “Real Bandit” and “Paradise”.

Diaspora Engagement: Interactive Health & Wellness Session

L-R: Panelists Dr. Peter Weller, Dr. Roger Lue Chin, Mrs.

Veronica Roache

H. E. David Prendergast interacts with specially invited

guests, including H.E. Fitzgerald Jeffrey, High Commissioner-

Designate of Trinidad and Tobago to Jamaica

H. E. David Prendergast brings opening remarks The evening’s moderator- Counsellor, Ms. Delita McCallum

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Diaspora Engagement: Interactive Health & Wellness Session

L-R (Above): Chargé d’affaires of the Suriname Embassy, Mr. Oquemele Denz and Mr. Michael Nelson of TrinJam

Restaurant pose questions to the panelists.

L-R (Above): Jamaican Health Practitioner Mrs. Veronica Roache presents on What You Need to Know about Cancer, Dr.

Peter Weller presents on Culture, Stress & Self Care and Dr. Roger Lue Chin presents on How to Stay Healthy.

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Diaspora Engagement: Interactive Health & Wellness Session

L-R (Above): Mr. Helon Francis, Young Kings Calypso Monarch, entertains the audience. First Secretary, Mrs. Nicole

Johnson delivers the Vote of Thanks. H.E. David Prendergast presents Mr. Helon Francis with a token of appreciation.

L-R: Presentation by Ms. Shashana Goulbourne to Dr. Peter Weller, presentation by Mrs. Angella Prendergast to Dr. Roger Lue

Chin, and presentation by Mr. Trevor Francis to Mrs. Veronica Roache.

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Diaspora Engagement: Interactive Health & Wellness Session

L-R (Above): Jamaican Chef Kevern Scarlett preparing

healthy refreshments for the Health & Wellness

Session.

Attendees prepare to indulge in scrumptious Jamaican

fare.

The buffet line featuring Jamaican fare. DJ Wax and guests partake of the refreshments.

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High Commissioner Meets with UWI St. Augustine Students

H.E. David Prendergast with the 2016/2017 Executive Body of the Jamaica Students Association in Trinidad and Tobago.

On Sunday, 10th April 2016, the High Commissioner attended the handover ceremony of the 2015/16 Jamaican Student Association in Trinidad and Tobago Committee to the 2016/2017 Committee.

The ceremony was held at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus.

The High Commissioner’s continued contact with students is among the High Commission’s priorities.

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Regional Meetings and Activities~ 21st Ministerial Council of the Association of Caribbean States

(ACS), Petionville, Haiti, 19th January 2016

At the 21st Ordinary Meeting of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) Ministerial Council,

Jamaica was represented by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, including H.E. David Prendergast, High Commissioner for Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago.

The organization’s budget and work programme for the biennium 2016-2017 were approved by the

Ministerial Council. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration and the Republic of Belarus were accepted as Observers to the ACS.

Back Row, far right: H.E. David Prendergast, High

Commissioner of Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago.

H.E. Alfonso Múnera, Secretary-General of the ACS,

addresses the audience.

Representatives of the Member States of the Association of Caribbean States.

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Regional Meetings and Activities~ 21st Ministerial Council of the Association of Caribbean States

(ACS), Petionville, Haiti, 19th January 2016

H.E. David Prendergast, High Commissioner of Jamaica to

Trinidad and Tobago, greets H.E. Michel Martelly,

President of Haiti.

Hon. Dennis Moses, Minister of CARICOM and Foreign Affairs of

Trinidad and Tobago, greets H.E. Michel Martelly,

President of Haiti.

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The 27th Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM was held in Placencia, Belize from 16th-17th February 2016.

Jamaica’s delegation was led by Senator the Honourable A. J. Nicholson,

former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. Other senior government officials, including H.E. David Prendergast, High Commissioner of

Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago, were also present.

Issues Discussed Loss of correspondent banking relationships faced by Caribbean

Banks since the de-risking of American Bankers Possible threat of the Zika Virus in the Caribbean Crime and Security Climate Change Approval of the extension of Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque’s

term in office The formal establishment of the Council of National Security and

Law Enforcement as an organ of the Caribbean Community.

CARICOM Prime Ministers and Heads of Delegation at the 27th

Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads

of Government of CARICOM, Placencia, Belize, 16th

-17th

February 2016.

Regional Meetings and Activities~ 27th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the

Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM Placencia, Belize, 16th-17th February 2016

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Regional Meetings and Activities~ 4th Meeting of the Caribbean Development Roundtable

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, 21st-22nd April 2016

During the 4th Meeting of the Caribbean Development Roundtable, the Economic

Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) called for the creation of a

Caribbean Resilience Fund as part of a debt alleviation strategy based on a climate

change swap proposal.

Discussions also focused on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs) in the Caribbean. Participants highlighted the following critical Caribbean-

related issues to be addressed through implementation of the SDGs:

Climate change

Population ageing

Non-communicable diseases

Persistent poverty and inequality

High youth unemployment

Loss of skills through emigration, and low technological capacity

Delegates attending the Caribbean Development Roundtable Meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Jamaica was

represented by Ambassador Sheila Monteith and High Commissioner David Prendergast.

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Regional Meetings and Activities~ 26th Session of the Caribbean Development and Cooperation Committee (CDCC) of the Economic Commission for Latin

America and the Caribbean St. Kitts and Nevis, 22nd April 2016

The Deputy Executive Secretary of ECLAC, Antonio Prado, opens the 26th Session of the Caribbean Development and Cooperation Committee in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Presenters seated at the head table include Mrs. Diane Quarless -Chief of ECLAC- and Ambassador Sheila Sealy Monteith of Jamaica.

Photo Credit: ECLAC

High Commissioner David Prendergast alongside fellow Chevening Scholar, Ms. Sonia Boddie, St. Kitts and Nevis Foreign Service Officer.

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Regional Meetings and Activities~ 19th CARICOM Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 9th-10th May 2016

Jamaica’s delegation to the 19th Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) was led by Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

The CARICOM Foreign Ministers engaged with bilateral partners, the Foreign Ministers of Sweden and the Netherlands, who committed to strengthening relations with CARICOM in climate change and its impact on SIDS and low-lying states, renewable energy, water management and ocean security, citizen security and the need to operationalize the COP 21 Agreement.

Ministers also addressed the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, Reparatory Justice, Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The matters relating to correspondent banking arrangements in CARICOM Member States, as well as the implications of the possible exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union, were high on Jamaica's agenda in the discussions. The candidature of Dr. June Soomer of St. Lucia for the Secretary-General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), was also endorsed by COFCOR.

Ministers of Foreign Affairs of CARICOM Member States during the 19th

CARICOM Council for Foreign and Community Relations. Also included are the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, the Hon. Margot Wallstrom, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Hon. Burt Koenders- both special guests at COFCOR.

Senator the Hon Kamina Johnson Smith with her Belize counterpart Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington

and the delightful Melisizwe brothers who performed at the Opening Ceremony of COFCOR.

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VII Summit of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) Havana, Cuba, 4th June 2016

Jamaica's Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, Attorney-General the Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, High Commissioner David Prendergast and other Senior Officials attended the VII Summit of Heads of State and/or Government of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), in Havana, Cuba on 4th June 2016. The Summit’s Theme was "Together for a Sustainable Caribbean". Discussion topics included:- Climate Change , Coastal Erosion , Sargassum Seaweed , Conservation and Preservation of the Caribbean Sea , and the Improvement of Regional Air & Maritime Connectivity.

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Cultural Activities~ Chapel Choir of Campion College Visits

Trinidad and Tobago

The Chapel Choir of Campion College performed in Trinidad and Tobago on 9th-10th April 2016 at

the Grand Ballroom, Cascadia Hotel and Conference Centre.

Also in performance were the Bishop Anstey High

School Choir and the Queen’s Royal College Chorale, among others. The Choir did

themselves, their school and their country proud.

High Commissioner David Prendergast and Mrs. Prendergast welcomed the Choir at a reception in their honour at the Official Residence on 11th

April 2016. In a brief address by the High Commissioner, the Choir was encouraged to

remain focused and to keep on striving towards the perfection of their art.

The Campion College Chapel Choir alongside High Commissioner David Prendergast and

Mrs. Prendergast at the Official Residence.

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Reception in Honour of the Chapel Choir of Campion College

Trinidad and Tobago

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Reception in Honour of the Chapel Choir of Campion College

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Cultural Activities~ Jamaican Authors Shine at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest

Port of Spain, 23rd April -1st May 2016

Olive Senior and Jacqueline Bishop alongside H.E. David

Prendergast, High Commissioner for Jamaica and Mrs.

Prendergast. Photo credit: Marlon James

Jamaican-born Jacqueline Bishop accepts her Shortlist

prize for NON-FICTION, with her novel 'The Gymnast and

Other Positions’ Photo credit: Marlon James

Jamaican author of 'The Pain Tree' Olive Senior accepts her prize for her historic win of the 2016 Bocas Lit Fest OCM Bocas

Prize for Caribbean Literature. Photo credit: Marlon James

The queue to Jamaican author

Marlon James' book signing at

the NGC Bocas Lit Fest. Mr.

James is author of A Brief

History of Seven Killings,

Winner of the 2015 Man

Booker Prize and the 2015

OCM Bocas Prize for Fiction.

Photo credit: Marlon James

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Cultural Activities~ Jamaican Authors Shine at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest

Port of Spain, 23rd April -1st May 2016

Jamaican author of The Pain Tree Olive Senior, winner of the 2016 Bocas Lit Fest OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature. Photo credit: Marlon James

Jamaican Garfield Ellis, author of The Angels’ Share and Jamaican-

born author Jacqueline Bishop share a light moment at a

welcome reception following the award ceremony of the 2016

Bocas Lit Fest OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature.

Father-Daughter moment- A proud father

Mr. Michael Johnson embraces his daughter

Jamaican-born author Jacqueline Bishop at the

welcome reception following the award ceremony

of the 2016 Bocas Lit Fest OCM Bocas Prize for

Caribbean Literature.

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Jamaican Rugby Team Visit Trinidad and Tobago

On Saturday, 23rd April 2016, the Jamaican

Men’s Rugby Team played against the Trinidad

and Tobago Calypso Ruggers Men’s Rugby

Team in a Rugby World Cup 2019 qualifying

match at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.

This was following the opening qualifier match

in March 2016, where the Jamaican team won

St. Vincent and the Grenadines 48-0.

Following their encounter with Trinidad and

Tobago, Jamaica won the second half 14-12.

However, Trinidad won the game 34-14.

Jamaica now ranks at 72 on the World Rugby

Rankings.

Photo Credit: Charlie Forgham Bailey

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GLOBE SPOTS' TOP 10 TEN DESTINATIONS

~ 2016~

Jamaica ranked 4th in the Globe Spots' Top 10 Ten Destinations for 2016.

International Spotlight on Jamaica

FORBES BEST COUNTRIES FOR BUSINESS ~2016~

Ranking 59th out of 144 countries in the Forbes Best Countries for Business Report 2015, Jamaica remains the best country in the Caribbean to do

business. Jamaica’s performance was attributed to, among other things, a passage of new laws to encourage businesses, as well as the general improvement

in the macroeconomic environment.

TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS CHOICE AWARDS

~2016~

Jamaica ranked 3rd in the Top 10 Best Island Destinations in the World by

TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards 2016.

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EXPO JAMAICA 2016

EXPO JAMAICA 2016: 14th-17th April 2016

Following an invitation from the Honourable Minister of Industry,

Investment and Commerce of Jamaica, the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers Association was represented at EXPO

JAMAICA 2016 by Ms. Shanna-Marie Israel and Ms. Naveenaa Rampersad.

EXPO JAMAICA is a biennial event aimed at showcasing the very best of Jamaican-made

products to local and international consumers. The event was a resounding success with some 431 buyers attending

the Expo. A total of 23 countries were represented.

Marilyn Ramkissoon (right) Group Chief Executive Officer of

CLA Publishers in Trinidad and Tobago shares a light

moment, as she samples a chocolate rum ball, with Suzanne

Parkins (left), Sponsorship and Expo Jamaica 2016 Project

Manager for Hampden Distributors.

Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith,

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade,

dances the traditional Jamaican folk dance Dinki

Mini during the opening of EXPO JAMAICA 2016.

An aerial view of EXPO JAMAICA in full swing.

Prime Minister the Most Honourable Andrew Holness cuts the ribbon to

officially open EXPO JAMAICA.

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Tribute to Permanent Secretary Ambassador Paul Robotham on His Retirement from the

Jamaican Foreign Service

It was the great Mahatma Gandhi who said “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. This aptly describes you, Ambassador Paul Robotham. For over thirty years you have given of yourself, time and talent in service of the Government and People of Jamaica. What a privilege it has been for us at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, to have shared in your expertise, tact, dedication, and commitment towards the promotion of Jamaica’s national interests through our foreign policy. Your departure is a bittersweet moment for us as we bid adieu, but most definitely not goodbye, to a colleague and friend who has, for the past four years, led the Ministry par excellence. It is said that “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them”. Whichever may be the case, none can deny that you have been the consummate professional, diplomat, servant-leader, man of God, counselor, and indeed a man of distinction. Perhaps unknown to you, some persons refer to “Apostle Paul” a name earned by you because of the strong very Christian values you uphold and the spiritual guidance provided to us. We will cherish the fond memories of your fervent prayers on almost every occasion that we gathered together. As a leader, you have built a level of cohesiveness among your team. You can feel justifiably proud that you have helped to build and develop a cadre of competent staff in the Foreign Service. Some may recall the words of wisdom you shared with staff upon your assumption of the role of Permanent Secretary. You reminded us that leaders were not perfect or infallible . Further, each and every one of us had a contribution to make. In so doing, it was important that we lived by the creed of giving value, going the extra mile and exceeding expectations. You emphasized the importance of always striving to uphold the good i mage of the public service. You inspired us with your genuine interest in the welfare, growth and development of staff and our families. You implored us to be respectful and supportive of each other. And to your Foreign Service Officers, you reminded us to dazzle the world with persuasion and diplomacy, as we defend the interests of our nation. These are invaluable lessons which we hope to continue to share and impart to those around us. You were always approachable and your doors were always open and you have always listened to the concerns of staff and have sought to address them as best as you could. The staff at the High Commission for Jamaica in Port of Spain is grateful for your support during some of the most the challenging periods particularly in relation to immigration issues and the Free Movement of People. Your expertise and passion for CARICOM affairs and Regional Integration was an invaluable asset that enabled you to provide the guidance on how to address the relevant issues. Ambassador Robotham, or “Robocop” as some of us also fondly referred to you, as you begin another chapter in your life and pursue new dreams, we wish you and your dear wife Marjorie continued happiness and all the best in the years ahead. ‘Wherever you go, go with all your heart’ and do remember us fondly. You will be missed but rest assured that you have left a remarkable legacy behind and one which will remain with us for years to come. Your star is illuminated wherever you are and upon everyone with whom you have come in contact. Now that you are taking your bow on this phase, your legacy speaks for itself.

As you go, take Aaron’s blessing in Numbers 6: 24 – 26, with you: The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you; The Lord lift up the light of His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Walk good Ambassador Pablo!

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Violinist Mr. Felipe Archibald delivers a musical tribute in

honour of Professor Girvan

Tribute on the Occasion of the 2nd Anniversary of the Passing of Professor Norman Girvan

Association of the Caribbean States, 15th April 2016

Distinguished guests listen to the special tributes in honour of

Professor Norman Girvan.

L-R: Mrs. Jasmine Girvan, H.E. Alfonso

Múnera- ACS Secretary-General

In commemoration of the second anniversary of the untimely passing of Jamaican Professor Norman P. Girvan, Former Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States and brilliant Caribbean academic, the ACS Secretariat hosted a special tribute to his life on 15th April 2016. The tribute included remarks by Their Excellencies, Guillermo Vázquez Moreno, Chair of the Ministerial Council, Alfonso Múnera, Secretary General of the ACS, David Prendergast, Jamaican High Commissioner, as well as the son of the late Professor Girvan- Mr. Alexander Girvan- who currently serves as the Coordinator of the ACS Caribbean Sea Commission. In attendance were Ambassadors and Heads of Diplomatic Missions representing the ACS Member States, government officials and other dignitaries.

L-R: Mr. Alexander Girvan, Mrs. Jasmine Girvan,

Ambassador Munera, Ms. Alatashe Girvan

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L-R: H.E. Alfonso

Múnera- ACS

Secretary-General,

Mrs. Jasmine Girvan,

H.E. Guillermo

Vasquez Moreno-

Ambassador of Cuba,

H.E. David

Prendergast, High

Commissioner of

Jamaica.

Mr. Alexander Girvan pays a special tribute to his

late father Professor Norman Girvan.

L-R (Front Row): Ms. Alatashe Girvan, Mr. Alexander Girvan.

Tribute on the Occasion of the 2nd Anniversary of the Passing of Professor Norman Girvan

Association of the Caribbean States, 15th April 2016

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Staff Corner ~ Customer Service Training

In an effort to better serve our clients, the staff of the Jamaican High Commission has been undergoing training,

led by Human Resource and Business Development Consultant, and member of the Jamaican Diaspora, Mrs.

Georgia Donaldson.

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Staff Corner ~ Celebrating Indian Arrival Day

In celebration of Indian Arrival Day on 30th May

2016, staff was treated to delicious Indian fare by

Mr. Juamoul Griffith. Dishes included curried chicken-

potato, curried steam vegetables and bodie,

boiled ground provision, curried mango, water

crests, cucumber slices, rice and mango chunks.

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Staff Corner

Congratulations to Counsellor, Ms. Delita McCallum who graduated on

16th June 2016 with a

Master’s Degree in Business Administration

(MBA) with specialization in Strategic Management

from the State University of New York (SUNY),

Empire State College.

Congratulations to Mr. Helon Francis on winning the 32nd Annual Young Kings

Calypso Monarch Competition in Trinidad and Tobago on 25th January 2015 at the

Queen’s Park Savannah. Helon wowed the audience with his song “Real Bandit”. He is the son of Mr. Trevor Francis, Chauffeur and one of our longest

serving members of staff.

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Staff Corner

Sincere appreciation to our two interns Ms. Aiesha Crooks and Ms. Melissa-Kim Dunkley who served, with high levels of professionalism, at the High Commission during the period

May-June 2016.

We wish both ladies all the best in their future endeavours.

High Commissioner David Prendergast presents Ms. Aiesha Crooks with a token of appreciation

upon completion of her internship at the Jamaican High Commission.

Intern, Ms. Melissa-Kim Dunkley serving at the Reception Desk of the Jamaican High

Commission.

Intern, Ms. Melissa-Kim Dunkley assists clients with the completion of passport

applications.

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Jamaica Yellow Fever Advisory

JAMAICA YELLOW FEVER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 29th MAY 2016

Vaccination against yellow fever is required to prevent the importation of yellow fever virus into Jamaica where the disease does not occur but where the mosquito vector and human hosts are present. Jamaica requires all travelers over one (1) year of age journeying from yellow fever risk countries to show proof of yellow fever vaccination by means of a valid yellow fever certificate. This also applies to all travelers transiting through countries with risk of transmission of yellow fever. The certificate of yellow fever vaccination is valid for life, it should be administered at a yellow fever approved vaccination centre at least ten (10) days before travel; as the vaccine only offers adequate protection ten (10) days after administration. Failure to produce a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at a Jamaican point of entry may lead to refusal of entry, or quarantine until the traveler’s certificate is produced. Quarantine will not be longer than six (6) days. Travelers who have an approved exemption certificate due to medical reasons will be allowed entry. They will be provided with a Health Alert Card and will be required to report fever or other symptoms daily to the health authorities. Ad hoc monitoring visits will be carried out on these visitors by the public health authorities. The countries for which a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Jamaica are based on the World Health Organization’s advisory as of 4 FEBRUARY 2016 at http://www.who.int/ith/2015-ith-annex1.pdf.

Countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and countries requiring yellow fever vaccination are:

Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania,

Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, and Venezuela.

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High

Commission for

Jamaica

2 Newbold Street

St. Clair

Port of Spain

Trinidad and Tobago

Phone: (868) 622-4995-7

Fax: (868) 622-9043

E-mail:

jamaica@jhcpos.org

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High Commission

for Jamaica, Port of

Spain

Services that the High Commission Offers

Services that the High Commission Does Not Offer

Provide financial assistance or scholarships to nationals through loans,

education or funeral grants;

Provide financial assistance to persons who wish to open or operate a

business in Trinidad and Tobago, other countries to which the High

Commission is accredited, or Jamaica;

Stand as surety for nationals seeking loans for business, education or

private purposes;

Purchase airline tickets for nationals to return to Jamaica;

Seek the release of incarcerated persons, intervene in criminal or civil

court proceedings or overturn a deportation order;

Pay bills, find work or source accommodation for Jamaican nationals;

Give legal advice, provide legal representation, investigate crimes or

directly carry out searches for missing persons, but will refer you to the

appropriate local authorities.

Countries over Which the High Commission for Jamaica, Port of Spain, has

Jurisdiction:

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Dominica,

Grenada, Guyana, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten/Saint Martin, St.

Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago.

Passport applications for Jamaican Citizens;

Issuance of Emergency Certificates (EC's) for urgent travel;

Processing and issuance of visas and other relevant documents to foreigners

visiting Jamaica;

Authentication and legalization of documents;

Protection of welfare and interests of Jamaican nationals, including those on

remand and incarcerated;

Provision of information regarding regulatory requirements for Returning

Residents;

Processing of applications for Jamaican citizenship; and

Promotion of commerce and trade interests between Jamaica, Trinidad and

Tobago and other countries to which the High Commission is accredited.

Consular Hours

Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Friday

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

@JHC_TnT