Pettinato

Despite the fact that Jamaica has many non-governmental organisations (NGO) operating in the country, there is still a need to develop a strong support system for these groups, according to a representative of the European Union (EU).

"Jamaica desperately needs a strong NGO network that will effectively work towards the betterment of the society that will be powerful and strong enough to attract the necessary funding to remain sustainable in the long run," said Carlo Pettinato, first secretary, head of trade, economics, politics and information at the EU.

Mr. Pettinato spoke Wednesday at the official opening of the Council of Voluntary Social Services National Volunteer Centre, in St. Andrew.

He said he hoped this centre would serve as a further catalyst to realise this objective.

Professor Rex Nettleford, president of the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS), while chairing the ceremony, hailed the CVSS for being a flagship entity and pioneer institution for what people now refer to as 'civil society'.

The value of volunteers

He said the value of volunteers was not truly realised in Jamaica.

"A lot of things that are done in this country are done on a voluntary basis and I hope we will never lose this," he said.

Georgia Scott, executive director of Youth Opportunities Unlimited, said CVSS was the governing body for the volunteering sector, which has served to enhance the image and ideals of volunteerism in Jamaica.

Patrick Hylton shared the view that individuals can change the world through action and drew on Mahatma Gandhi's belief that one should "be the change they want to see".

The centre will serve as a hub for voluntary activities. It will host the National Registry of Volunteers. Mr. Pettinato said this centre was very valuable because "for the first time, the NGO community will be able to have a place to collectively call their own".