JAMAICA | The PNP's Wavel Hinds Calls for Reactivation of the National Sports Council

KINGSTON, Jamaica. May 31, 2024: Opposition Spokesman on Labour and Sports, Wavell Hinds, wants Sports Minister Olivia Babsy Grange to immediately reactivate the National Sports Council's (NSC) whose long-standing dormancy has been a pressing issue that has significantly impacted Jamaica's sporting landscape. 

"The absence of a functional NSC severely impedes our ability to harness the full potential of sports as a catalyst for our nation's development," Hinds emphasised.

Since 2016, the NSC has been stagnant, with no meetings or budget allocations, hindering initiatives aimed at advancing Jamaican sports.

Hinds noted that the Minister and Ministry of Sports must play a pivotal role in driving the resurgence of Jamaican sports, citing missed opportunities such as Jamaica's absence in hosting matches in prominent sporting events.

The NSC, as the apex body tasked with guiding and coordinating sporting activities in Jamaica, is crucial for establishing both short-term and long-term goals for the sector, providing strategic direction, and ensuring effective resource allocation.

One significant example of missed opportunities is Jamaica's absence in hosting matches in prominent sporting events, such as the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments.

"The decision by the Jamaica Tallawahs to pull out of hosting CPL games due to a lack of government support is a stark reminder of the urgent need for intervention," Hinds pointed out.

Similarly, Jamaica's absence in bidding to host matches in the T20 World Cup highlights the need for a more proactive approach to seizing opportunities to showcase our nation's sporting prowess on the global stage.

"While the government cited a 'sound cost-benefit analysis' for its decision, the long-term benefits of hosting such events far outweigh the short-term costs," Hinds argued.

The Spokesman also called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders. "The NSC must be reinvigorated to spearhead this revitalisation, while the government must provide unwavering support and leadership.

Together, we can unlock the full potential of Jamaican sports, ushering in a new era of excellence and opportunity for our athletes and our nation as a whole," Hinds asserted.

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