Power brokers guarded in optimism for 2009

WHILE 2008 was one of the most challenging years in recent history, local power brokers, policymakers and programme managers are expressing optimism about the new year, although with some reservations.

Linnette Vassell, gender specialist - Rural Water Development programme, Chairwoman - Women's Resource and Outreach Centre (WROC)

I hope that in 2009 the leaders at the community level will continue to put out their best efforts to complete the implementation of local water supply systems including the Mile Gully and Warwick Castle Benevolent Development Societies (BDS), the Gravel Hill BDS and the Whitehorse's BDS. I hope that they will be strengthened and take full responsibility for these water supply projects which are slated for completion in early 2009. We are hoping that the leaders will not give up despite the challenges, but will press ahead to realise their goals.

With regards to WROC - which is currently pursuing banana worker rehabilitation in St Thomas and violence prevention and sustainable livelihoods projects in inner-city Kingston - and the wider voluntary sector in Jamaica, I hope that they will continue to work to stabilise themselves and serve local communities. The pressure for urban livelihoods (sustainable employment) is really tremendous, especially in Kingston.

We also hope that the government will give some consideration to supporting the workers in the voluntary sector with special incentives for those who still do not own their own homes.

This is an excerpt from an article published in the Jamaica Gleaner on Sunday, December 28, 2008. You can read the entire article at the Jamaica Gleaner website.