Dr Waul speaks on massive role rebranded local chamber can play

Such an important role was quickly seized upon by Dr Kurt Waul during his remarks at Wednesday’s launch and inauguration service of the South St Catherine Chamber of Commerce (formerly Old Harbour Chamber of Commerce).

Dr Waul, chairman of the People’s National Party (PNP) St Catherine South West constituency lauded the business group for its work insofar as its activism and outreach, but reckon a greater role it must play.

“In terms of housing developments, Old Harbour could be considered to be at an advanced level, however, in terms of road networks, parking availability, traffic congestion issues, public amenities and business offerings in the town we are still in a stage of infancy,” he said. “And here in lies a great opportunity for the chamber to make good on its mandate which is to lobby for proper town planning and development to better serve its customers and bring success to its members.”

Speaking immediately after incumbent Member of Parliament Everald Warmington, who he lost heavily to in the General Elections held last year September, had addressed the audience, Dr Waul was not about to let such an important occasion passed without capitalising on it.

He gave the chamber the charge to take its role and responsibility serious and to become a voice not only for businesses but for the common man, a point that was central in the message of SSCC President Treacha Reid-McCalla and recognised by Warmington.

In light of recent announcement made by Warmington, who also repeated the claim during his presentation that a government town centre for Old Harbour is a real possibility in the very near future, the medical doctor said it is very crucial that the chamber have a say in the process.

“The chamber will have its work cut out for it, especially with talk of a new town centre to be developed in Old Harbour soon. The chamber being a major stakeholder should ensure it’s at the forefront of all the planning and execution phases of this major project which could either enhance the current business prospects for the chamber or harm it greatly if not done properly,” said the Old Harbour Bay native.

Impressed by the transformation of the movement for business operators, Dr Waul said he felt compelled to give his full support.

“You see, I have a special love for my home town and the people that live here, and like the many of you who have chosen to do business and raise a family here, we want nothing more than great success for all our citizens and our business community,” he said. “We all hope to see the day when Old Harbour will attain the great development potential it has.”