It is such a pleasure to join with the Salvation Army to celebrate the launch of their Christmas Kettle Appeal. This is a tradition that has been going on for 123 years and for many people, the kettle appeal signals the start of the Christmas season with its spirit of giving and sharing.

Of course being here in Bridgetown which is so beautifully decorated in blue and gold, you can’t help but remember that we’re still celebrating another, very important season.

Barbados marks 48 years of nationhood this month and one of the best things about this time of year is the spirit of community. Whether you’re applauding our people’s talent at NIFCA, sharing conkies with family or heading out with your church group for an Independence excursion, this time of year is about building the bonds of community.

So, I urge my colleagues in corporate Barbados to continue to support the Salvation Army’s kettle appeal. Together we can make a difference.