THE EDITOR, Sir:
WE WISH to publicly thank the Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa, for the gracious manner in which they accommodated the video-filming team from the Enhancing Civil Society Project (ECSP) and the Foundation for International Training (FIT) which manages this Project. The ECSP is one of several projects of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in Jamaica.
The Santoy farmers, funded by the ECSP to develop their farming and marketing skills, were filmed delivering their produce to the hotel. This operation was smoothly enacted due to the effective co-ordination and co-operation of the purchasing department of the Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa.
The succinct presentations of both Mr. Anthony Morris, the purchasing manager, and Mr. Burchell Henry, public relations manager, were very affirming of the Santoy Farmers. "I wish everyone of our suppliers' produce was as excellent as that of the Santoy Farmers" declared Mr. Morris.
Their comments will strengthen the video's message that partnerships are important for community development and the enhancing of civil society. We applaud the Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa for its commitment to assisting local community efforts and small farmers by providing necessary seedlings and purchasing their produce. This can only increase productivity, encourage excellence in farming, reduce our import food bill and increase hope in our nation.
I am, etc.,
PAULETTE GRIFFITHS-JUDE
Project Manager
Enhancing Civil Society Project
