Edward Chin-Mook is now the new president of theSmall Businesses Association of Jamaica (SBAJ).

He was nominated and selected recently at the SBAJ's annual general meeting held in July when a new executive body was put in place.

Chin-Mook holds a bachelor's degree in accounting and manage-ment and is the owner and managing director of Global Ink, a specialised Hewlett Packard ink remanufacturing company. Prior to his present post, he was an auditor, accountant, software developer and systems-support consultant for many large and small businesses.

Chin-Mook joined the association in 2004. As head of the SBAJ he said: "Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that the voice of the small-business sector is directed and heard at all levels of society."

Four new persons have been elected to the board of directors, namely: Ann Marie Bishop, Dollis Campbell, Theo Chambers and Winston Wright. Past members are Hensley Barr, who is the first vice-president; Oswald Smith, past president Watt, Laura Butler and Pedro Samuels.

Dalma P. James was elected treasurer and Meredith Derby, secretary of the association.

Chin-Mook said he would be embarking on a campaign to effect change in the regulatory and legislative framework affecting and impeding the growth and develop-ment of small businesses.

Also, the SBAJ head said he would be requesting assistance from Government to develop the association's complex located at Trafalgar Road, New Kingston, into a modern facility equipped with the amenities to allow members to compete effectively in the global marketplace.