Nevis, West Indies’ Premier – Joseph Parry
Charlestown, Nevis
February 23, 2009
Premier of Nevis, the Hon. Joseph Parry, addressed attendees of the 10th Anniversary Awards ceremony of Naomi’s Daycare Centre held under the theme: Educating from the cradle is the key to unlimited opportunities. The event took place at the Oualie Beach Hotel on Saturday, February 20th, 2009.
The Premier informed the gathering that when the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) led the government previously, one of their major concerns was what would happen to the children when job opportunities became more available for women. “That is when the NRP government opened pre-schools around the island,” declared Premier Parry.
“It is important that the children get very good care; it is also very important that care givers receive support from the parents,” commented Premier Parry.
He continued by imploring the parents give lots of love and attention to their children at home. This, he said, would go a long way, since many young people, especially boys, have strayed away from home and sought new families among gangs members, simply because of a lack of love at home.
“The right kind of support and appreciation needs to be given to caregivers, as well as teachers, in order to reveal that we (parents and the community) care,” emphasized Hon. Joseph Parry.
The Premier concluded his presentation by commending Pastor Douglas and his wife, Naomi, for giving a great service to the people of St. Thomas’ Parish and beyond. “We must take good care of our children; and in the future they will take care of us,” he said.
Remarks were also given by Principal Education Officer, Mrs. Jennifer Hodge, followed by a tribute in song to the awardees, by Ms. Lovelle Thomas.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of tokens and certificates donated by the Hon. Patrice Nisbett and presented by Mrs. Julie Pemberton, who gave awards to current teachers: Mrs. Jacinth Johnson, Ms. Maricia Grant, Mrs. Melissa Taylor, Ms. Theresa Clarke and Mrs. Elisha Weekes. Mrs. Sharon Lawrence presented awards to past teachers, Mrs. Anesta Maynard, Mrs. Iris Joseph, Ms Shanniel Robins, Ms. Lornette Marie, Ms. Leander Cornelius and Mrs. Amanda Claxton.