JAMAICA -Andrew Holness 'sworn-in' as Jamaica’s new Prime Minister

Sunday, 23 October 2011 18:44 CSMENetwork News ..





Prime Minister Andrew Holness being 'sworn-in on Sunday by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen

KINGSTON, Jamaica - Andrew Michael Holness, a Seventh Day Adventist by faith, was "sworn-in" by affirmation on Sunday as the Jamaica's ninth Prime Minister.
In a ceremony at King's House on Sunday afternoon, the new prime minister did not swear on the bible as is the custom because of his faith. Rather, as is allowed under the constitution, Holness 'declared and affirmed" due allegiance to Jamaica and his intention to carry out his duties as Prime Minister of Jamaica.

He takes over from Bruce Golding who handed in his resignation to the Governor General earlier Sunday afternoon. Holness 39, is the youngest Prime Minister of Jamaica.

Andrew Holness said he was born to working class parents in Spanish Town and in a bid to draw a clear distinction between himself and his political peers he spoke about how advanced they were in their careers when he was born.

He declared that he entered politics to change the path from within.

Andrew Holness argues that the country's politics has become polarized, mean spirited and has bred garrison. He said he is committed to support campaign finance and reform.

The new Prime Minister spoke about the successes in the fight against crime and revealed that his administration will bring anti-gang legislation to Parliament shortly and pointed out that his government would continue the fight against corruption.

Mr. Holness talked about the economic gains made by the outgoing administration including the Jamaica Debt Exchange but said, “we cannot continue to borrow more than we produce; … it’s the surest way to increase poverty." "I love the poor but I hate poverty" said Holness to loud applause in his swearing- in speech.

"Poor need meaningful employment not crash work programmes, "Mr. Holness said. He said he would be tell the people the truth about the economy.

He said "government must be fiscally responsible”.

We have lived on borrowed money, We are caught in a vicious cycle where we borrow to pay debts. In the last decade we have borrowed more than we produced.

The government he notes has developed a plan to reduce the national debt while protecting the most vulnerable.

The new Prime Minister called for cooperation and extended his hand to the opposition.

"I take responsibility for the direction of the country" declared Holness in his first address to the people of Jamaica.

He also called for parents, fathers, young people and entertainers to take responsibility for their actions.

His call also included politicians who he said must lead by example in their behaviour in Parliament.

"Education is the greatest investment in breaking inter-generational poverty. I urge every Jamaican to make the sacrifice and invest in your children" urged Andrew Holness.

He said it is time to review the PATH programme to ensure that no one is excluded.

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