Three signs that will signal Warmington’s exit from politics

The 68-year-old whose political career spans 51 years to date, had earlier this year announced that he intends to retire from representational politics after contesting the next general election constitutionally due 2021.

Speaking at a recent Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) project information meeting regarding expansion work at the Marlie Mount Primary and Infant School, Warmington said at the end of three major projects already in the pipeline he will depart the political battlefield forever.

“So now that we have done Old Harbour, we have done Marlie Mount; the other educational institution that is up for me to do before I leave (political office) here which is very shortly is to get the new high school for Old Harbour built. And I’m told and advised by the minister that that is included in this year’s budget and this will be built on 16 acres of land at Colbeck for a primary and a high school. So a new high school could be on stream very shortly.

“So I have three projects left to complete before I retire that is the new high school, the drainage system to take the water from Big Pond straight to the sea (US$8 million loan). The next one is the new Type 5 health centre for Old Harbour, the drawings and everything has been done, the funds is in place and UDC and the South East Regional Health Authority are working on the final approval,” he said.

All three projects are crucial to the rapid development of the greater Old Harbour area, said to be the fastest growing town in the English-speaking Caribbean.

The firebrand politician reiterated the view of not wanting to overstay his time in politics which he said has left many of his colleagues across the political divide handicapped by the reality of an aging body. He again echoed his belief that the country is blessed with capable young talent who can take the country forward.

“There are many young people in this country who has talent and ability to lead this country and if you are going to just sit in the chair then the country won’t move forward,” he said “so I believe that our job, having served for so long, is to step aside and groom someone for the future of this country instead of sitting there and impeding the progress of this country.

“At certain age our brain gets tired, you need new thinking, so I’m very happy to be a part of this and my goal is almost complete now.”