CHRIS BLACKWELL BLAZING NEW TRAILS WITH EXPANSION OF GOLDEN EYE…PM Golding

CHRIS BLACKWELL BLAZING NEW TRAILS WITH EXPANSION OF GOLDEN EYE...PM Golding

Prime Minister Bruce Golding has congratulated entrepreneur Chris Blackwell on the expansion of Golden Eye in Oracabessa, St Mary; and he praised him for demonstrating confidence at a time when economies are contracting, investors are cautious and owners of capital are in retreat because there is so much turbulence in the global economy.

Mr. Golding was speaking yesterday at ground breaking ceremony for the construction of phase one of a beach village at Golden Eye. He said a remarkable thing about the project is the vision that Chris Blackwell brings to the project. ‘He understands that the market is not just at the point where money is just put on the table. He has looked at the things that people would want in these testing times...and is concentrating on attracting the big spenders, creating a niche that caters to their particular needs and desires .'

According to Chris Blackwell the first phase of the Golden Eye expansion will include construction of 11 beach cottages, a new suspension bridge and a new beach front restaurant. "Our goal is to provide new opportunities for the community, with job creation and environmental programmes through our concept of destination tourism", Blackwell announced.

The Prime Minister said the project reflects Blackwell's enterprising characteristics demonstrated from his early adventures, piloting Jamaican music to the point where it is now virtually the signature of the Jamaican brand all over the world. ‘ He has looked at this site which has evoked so much passion from him over the years and he has injected the planning, design and concept with that same passion. I have every confidence that it is going to be a success', Mr Golding said.

The Prime Minister said Blackwell has blazed so many trails and has gone where others would never even think of going. ‘ It seems that the older he gets the more determined he is to blaze some new trails. This project is an example of the kind of creative genius that causes people to wonder . It is a great contribution to Jamaica at this time and a great way to position Jamaica for real significant impact and growth once this recession has passed', Mr. Golding added.

Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government reform in the Office of the Prime Minister and MP for West St Mary, Robert Montague, said the project would change the face of St Mary as it would expose the skills and talent of the young people . ‘Chris Blackwell is a visionary..He does not ask why..he asks why not."

He said the expansion of Golden Eye will create international awareness for Oracabessa and the parish of St Mary.