Mr. Speaker, later this year, Jamaica will celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence. On August 6, 1962, Jamaica became the first British colony in the Caribbean to gain full independence. This significant achievement became an inspiration to other island colonies of the region.
Later this month, cities across Canada, including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, will be hosting Jamaica 50 festivities led by members of the Jamaican community. These celebrations will not only reinforce the Jamaican diaspora's pride in its heritage but also provide a timely opportunity for Jamaican people to renew their commitment to their Canadian home.
Next week on March 22, Her Excellency Sheila Sealy Monteith, High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada, will be at the government conference centre to begin the festivities celebrating all that Jamaica has achieved in the last half-century.
Please join Senator Meredith and me as we welcome this important milestone and celebrate the goodwill and warm ties that bind Jamaica and Canada.