标签： Jamaica

COOPER’S PEN, Trelawny — Jamaica’s efforts to ensure equitable beach access for its citizens are gaining momentum, with Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change Matthew Samuda expressing satisfaction with the progress. During a recent visit to the Cooper’s Pen community, Samuda inspected the implementation of a new beach access policy, which includes the construction of well-designed roads connecting thoroughfares to beaches. This initiative aims to balance tourism development with the preservation of local livelihoods and public access.

Samuda highlighted the success of the policy in fostering a harmonious environment where both local and foreign businesses thrive. He emphasized that Jamaicans are actively engaging in commerce, employment, and leisure activities at these beaches, reflecting the policy’s practical impact. The minister cited the Riu Palace Aquarelle development as an example, where discussions with the hotel’s developer ensured continued beach access for locals, complete with a thoughtfully designed entry point.

During his visit, Samuda interacted with local vendors and observed tourists enjoying the beach while supporting local craftspeople and hairdressers. He noted the absence of conflicts, attributing it to the preservation of traditional rights for fisherfolk and vendors. The minister also revealed plans for additional access points and upgrades to public beach parks, including Success Beach in St James, Priory Beach in his constituency, and Little Dunn’s River, which will remain free for public use.

Looking ahead, Samuda outlined ambitious plans to enhance access to iconic beaches such as Bob Marley Beach in Bull Bay and to develop a Negril Beach Park modeled after Montego Bay’s Harmony Beach Park. He acknowledged the challenges of restoring access to traditionally public beaches that have become restricted, emphasizing the need for practical solutions. The beach access policy, nearing completion, is expected to be presented in Parliament soon, marking a significant step toward ensuring sustainable and inclusive beach access for all Jamaicans.

The concept of modesty continues to spark debate among Christians, with varying interpretations of Biblical standards. Pastor Chris Morgan of the Go For God Family Church in St Andrew emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, viewing modesty as both a physical and spiritual expression of humility. ‘Modesty has two aspects: one is being covered, not showing too much, and the other is an attitude of humility,’ Morgan explained. He clarified that modesty is not about suppressing personal style but ensuring appropriateness in attire. ‘It’s not about being overly glamorous or revealing,’ he added, citing tight clothing, ripped jeans, and see-through fabrics as examples of immodest fashion. Morgan also addressed the gender bias in modesty guidelines, arguing that rules should not disproportionately burden women. ‘Men share the responsibility to dress appropriately too,’ he noted, urging both genders to avoid clothing that is overly tight or revealing. Drawing from 1 Peter 3:3, Morgan emphasized that true beauty stems from within, advocating for a focus on inner character rather than outward appearance. For those passionate about fashion, Morgan encouraged creativity within the bounds of modesty, stating, ‘God desires His people to be new and not to look old.’ Supporting this vision is Nateisha Williams, founder of FHL Designs, a local brand specializing in modest and elegant clothing. Williams, who began her business in 2014, defines modesty as ‘starting in the heart.’ ‘Modest style is simple, elegant, and not elaborate,’ she said, expressing concern over revealing clothing among young women. Williams, who embraced modest dressing after becoming a Christian, believes both men and women should dress appropriately to avoid distraction. She also highlighted a growing demand for modest fashion, even among non-Christians, attributing this shift to a broader cultural movement toward elegance and simplicity. Williams expressed optimism about this trend, encouraging more people to be mindful of their attire.