Kingston, 7 May 2025 (JIS) - The establishment of the Environmental and Research Park at Mason River in Clarendon is the 2025 National Labour Day Project.

This is in keeping with the theme for Labour Day, ‘Protect the Environment: Our Land, Our Duty, Our Future’.

The slogan is ‘Jamaica Nice, Protect Wi Paradise’.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, made the disclosure during a statement to the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 6).

Minister Grange told the House that Mason River is an area of environmental awareness and protection that has gained international recognition over time.

She noted that in 2022, the area was designated a Protected National Heritage Area under the Natural Resources Conservation Authority Act and a Protected National Heritage Site under the Jamaica National Heritage Trust Act.

The site was also declared a Game Sanctuary in 1998 under the Wildlife Protection Act and more recently, in 2011, the site gained recognition as a wetland of international significance, becoming Jamaica’s fourth under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

“These designations underscore the property’s national significance as a heritage area, rich and unique in biodiversity, as well as for the vital ecosystem services it provides,” Minister Grange said.

“The Mason River Protected Area plays an essential role in the lives and livelihoods of surrounding and wider communities, offering numerous ecosystem services, including water regulation, carbon sequestration, nutrient recycling, biodiversity support, as well as providing recreational and cultural value,” she added.

The Minister further informed that the National Project will be led by Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, and will include Leader of the Opposition, Mark Golding.

Labour Day 2025 will culminate with a Gospel Extravaganza at Emancipation Part at 7.00 p.m.

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