Role of the Jamaican High Commission

June 20161

HIGH COMMISSION FOR JAMAICA

PORT OF SPAIN

INSIDE:

Role of the High Commission ……………1 Meet the New Foreign Minister ………….2 Role of the Jamaican High Commission Bilateral Relations: …………………....3-10 Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago The High Commission for Jamaica in Trinidad and Tobago is accredited to some Consular Corner…………………...... 11-14 sixteen countries across the Caribbean region and is committed to: Diaspora Engagement ………………15-20  Deepening bilateral relations and cooperation in countries under our Meeting with UWI Students……………..21 jurisdiction; Regional Meetings and Activities  Protecting the interest of Jamaican nationals; 21st ACS Ministerial Council……..22-23  Providing consular services to Jamaicans and persons visiting Jamaica; 27th Meeting of CARICOM Heads…..24  Engaging the Jamaican Diaspora; 4th Meeting of the Caribbean ……….25  Monitoring and reporting on political and socio-economic developments; Development Roundtable  Identifying opportunities for increased trade and investment; and

th  26 Session of the Caribbean ……...26 Promoting Jamaican creative industries such as art, film, fashion, cuisine, Development & Cooperation music, and theatre.  Committee (CDCC) & the Economic Commission for Latin America & the Caribbean (ECLAC)

19th COFCOR…………………………27 VII ACS Summit ……………………...28 Cultural Activities …………………….29-34 International Spotlight on Jamaica …… 35 Expo Jamaica 2016……………………...36 Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago established diplomatic relations in 1963. Both countries have worked together in the context of CARICOM as founding members, Tribute to H.E. Paul Robotham…….…...37 in various regional and multilateral fora and at the bilateral level. Tribute to Professor Norman ……….38-39 Girvan In recent times, work has been conducted through bilateral consultations between Staff Corner …………………………..40-43 both countries, with a view to the continuous enhancement of relations.  Jamaica Yellow Fever Advisory ………..44 General Information ……………………..45

Meet the New Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

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 Senator the Honourable Kamina Master of Laws in Commercial Law, London School of Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Economics and Political Science

Affairs and Foreign Trade Certificate in Legal and Diplomatic French, Guadeloupe Certificate in Negotiation, Harvard Law School

Hobbies Sports, Yoga, Reading and Dance. 

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.

Bilateral Relations: Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago

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 11th 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... th In a letter dated 27 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

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 High Commissioner David Prendergast prepares to immigration matters between Jamaica and Trinidad address immigration matters between Jamaica and and Tobago on C-TV News, 15th April 2016. Trinidad and Tobago with Journalist Mr. Vashan Brown of Television Jamaica- TVJ, 22nd April 2016.

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. 

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.

Official Visit of the Hon. Olivia Grange

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports th th 8 -10 June 2016

The Honourable Olivia Grange, M.P. was a featured presenter at the Caribbean Creative Industries Management th Unit Workshop, held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on 9 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. 

Bilateral Relations:

Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago~ Community Tourism

L-R: Mrs. Marguerite Diana McIntyre Pike,

Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Co- Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Mrs. ordinator and Michele Celestine, Marguerite Diana McIntyre-Pike pays a courtesy call Coordinator, National Heritage Trust on High Commissioner David Prendergast. Programme, Trinidad and Tobago.

Jamaican Tourism Consultant/Trainer Mrs. Marguerite Diana McKintyre-Pike presented in the Second th st Caribbean Conference of National Trusts and Preservation Societies which was held from 19 -21 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. 

Tourism Linkages~ Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago

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)

th On 26 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.

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

Consular Missions

nd th During the period 2 -7 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. 

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

Ms. Delita McCallum, Counsellor, addresses the Jamaican  Golden Grove Women’s Prison

community during a Town Hall Meeting at the Clement

Payne Cultural Centre, Barbados.  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. 

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. 

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

Consular Corner Q&A

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.

FOR LOST, DAMAGED OR STOLEN

PASSPORTS, SUBMIT THE

FOLLOWING:

 Completed passport application form and payment

 Official police report

 Birth Certificate/Adoption Certificate DID YOU KNOW? 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, Children of Jamaican nationals Deed Poll, Divorce Decree, Court qualify for Unconditional Landing Order) status. Apply at PICA and never worry about overstaying while visiting Jamaica!

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. 

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

Diaspora Engagement:

Interactive Health & Wellness Session

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

L-R: Panelists Dr. Peter Weller, Dr. Roger Lue Chin, Mrs. H. E. David Prendergast interacts with specially invited

Veronica Roache 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

Diaspora Engagement: Interactive Health & Wellness Session

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.

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.

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.

Diaspora Engagement:

Interactive Health & Wellness Session

L-R (Above): Jamaican Chef Kevern Scarlett preparing Attendees prepare to indulge in scrumptious Jamaican healthy refreshments for the Health & Wellness fare. Session.

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

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.

th On Sunday, 10 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. 

Regional Meetings and Activities~ 21st Ministerial Council of the Association of Caribbean States th (ACS), Petionville, Haiti, 19 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. 

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

Back Row, far right: H.E. David Prendergast, High H.E. Alfonso Múnera, Secretary-General of the ACS, Commissioner of Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. addresses the audience.

Regional Meetings and Activities~

st 21 Ministerial Council of the Association of Caribbean States th (ACS), Petionville, Haiti, 19 January 2016

H.E. David Prendergast, High Commissioner of Jamaica to Hon. Dennis Moses, Minister of CARICOM and Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, greets H.E. Michel Martelly, Trinidad and Tobago, greets H.E. Michel Martelly, President of Haiti. President of Haiti.

Regional Meetings and Activities~ th 27 Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM th th Placencia, Belize, 16 -17 February 2016

th CARICOM Prime Ministers and Heads of Delegation at the 27 Intersessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads th th of Government of CARICOM, Placencia, Belize, 16 -17 February 2016.

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. 

Regional Meetings and Activities~ 4th Meeting of the Caribbean Development Roundtable st nd Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, 21 -22 April 2016

Delegates attending the Caribbean Development Roundtable Meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Jamaica was represented by Ambassador Sheila Monteith and High Commissioner David Prendergast.

th During the 4 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 

Regional Meetings and Activities~

th 26 Session of the Caribbean Development and Cooperation

Committee (CDCC) of the Economic Commission for Latin

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

th The Deputy Executive Secretary of ECLAC, Antonio Prado, opens the 26 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.

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

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

th Jamaica’s delegation to the 19 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 Senator the Hon Kamina Johnson Smith with her Belize counterpart Kingdom from the European Union, were high on Jamaica's agenda in Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington the discussions. The candidature of Dr. June Soomer of St. Lucia for the and the delightful Melisizwe Secretary-General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), was brothers who performed at the also endorsed by COFCOR.  Opening Ceremony of COFCOR.

VII Summit of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) th Havana, Cuba, 4 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 th and/or Government of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), in Havana, Cuba on 4 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.  29

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. 30

Reception in Honour of the Chapel Choir of Campion College Trinidad and Tobago

Reception in Honour of the

Chapel Choir of Campion College

Cultural Activities~

Jamaican Authors Shine at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest rd st Port of Spain, 23 April -1 May 2016

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

Jamaican-born Jacqueline Bishop accepts her Shortlist Olive Senior and Jacqueline Bishop alongside H.E. David prize for NON-FICTION, with her novel 'The Gymnast and Prendergast, High Commissioner for Jamaica and Mrs.

Other Positions’ Prendergast. Photo credit: Marlon James 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

Cultural Activities~

Jamaican Authors Shine at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest rd st Port of Spain, 23 April -1 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.

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 35

International Spotlight on Jamaica

FORBES BEST COUNTRIES FOR BUSINESS ~2016~

Ranking 59th out of 144 countries in the Forbes GLOBE SPOTS' TOP 10 TEN Best Countries for Business Report 2015, Jamaica DESTINATIONS remains the best country in the Caribbean to do ~ 2016~ business. Jamaica’s performance was attributed to, among Jamaica ranked 4th in the Globe Spots' other things, a passage of new laws to encourage Top 10 Ten Destinations for 2016.  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. 

EXPO JAMAICA 2016

th th EXPO JAMAICA 2016: 14 -17 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 Prime Minister the Most Honourable Andrew Holness cuts the ribbon to consumers. The event was a resounding officially open EXPO JAMAICA. 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.

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! 

Tribute on the Occasion of the nd 2 Anniversary of the Passing of Professor Norman Girvan th Association of the Caribbean States, 15 April 2016

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, Violinist Mr. Felipe Archibald delivers a musical tribute in

Ambassador Munera, Ms. Alatashe Girvan honour of Professor Girvan

Distinguished guests listen to the special tributes in honour of L-R: Mrs. Jasmine Girvan, H.E. Alfonso Professor Norman Girvan. Múnera- ACS Secretary-General

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

th Association of the Caribbean States, 15 April 2016

Mr. Alexander Girvan pays a special tribute to his L-R (Front Row): Ms. Alatashe Girvan, Mr. Alexander Girvan. late father Professor Norman Girvan.

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.

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. 

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. 

Staff Corner

Congratulations to Counsellor, Ms. Delita Congratulations to Mr. Helon Francis on nd McCallum who graduated on winning the 32 Annual Young Kings 16th June 2016 with a Calypso Monarch Competition in Trinidad and Tobago on 25th January 2015 at the Master’s Degree in Business Administration Queen’s Park Savannah. (MBA) with specialization in Helon wowed the audience with his song Strategic Management “Real Bandit”. He is the son of Mr. Trevor from the Francis, Chauffeur and one of our longest State University of New York (SUNY), serving members of staff.  Empire State College. 

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 Intern, Ms. Melissa-Kim Dunkley assists the Reception Desk of the Jamaican High clients with the completion of passport Commission.  applications. 

Jamaica Yellow Fever Advisory

JAMAICA YELLOW FEVER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS th 29 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. 

High Services that the High Commission Offers Commission for

Jamaica  Passport applications for Jamaican Citizens;  Issuance of Emergency Certificates (EC's) for urgent travel; 2 Newbold Street  Processing and issuance of visas and other relevant documents to foreigners St. Clair visiting Jamaica; Port of Spain  Authentication and legalization of documents; Trinidad and Tobago  Protection of welfare and interests of Jamaican nationals, including those on

remand and incarcerated;

Phone: (868) 622-4995-7  Provision of information regarding regulatory requirements for Returning Fax: (868) 622-9043 Residents;  Processing of applications for Jamaican citizenship; and E-mail:  Promotion of commerce and trade interests between Jamaica, Trinidad and [email protected] Tobago and other countries to which the High Commission is accredited.

Consular Hours Services that the High Commission Does Not Offer

Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  Provide financial assistance or scholarships to nationals through loans, education or funeral grants; Friday  Provide financial assistance to persons who wish to open or operate a 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 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 You can now like private purposes; us on facebook!  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; High Commission  Give legal advice, provide legal representation, investigate crimes or for Jamaica, Port of directly carry out searches for missing persons, but will refer you to the Spain appropriate local authorities.

Countries over Which the High Commission for Jamaica, Port of Spain, has Jurisdiction: @JHC_TnT 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. 