The Government has commended outgoing Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) President Chris Zacca for his invaluable contribution to nation building, particularly the country’s economic reform programme (ERP).
“Perhaps the most significant element of (Chris’) contribution, from my vantage point, has been (his) role in helping to consolidate the social partnership, and not only emphasising the need for economic reform, but the content of such reform,” said Finance and Planning Minister Dr Peter Phillips.
Dr Phillips was addressing the PSOJ’s annual Christmas Members’ Luncheon held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston on Thursday.
Zacca, who opted not to seek re-election, has served at the helm of the organisation for a total of five years, from 2006 to 2009 and 2012 to 2014. He is set to be replaced by head of the Wisynco Group, William Mahfood,
Dr Phillips said Zacca’s role in helping to conceptualise the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC), and his contribution as a member of the working group on tax reform, have also been laudable.
The minister noted that the PSOJ president’s role in the working group on tax reform has generated what is perhaps the most significant set of reforms undertaken in recent times in Jamaica.
Minister of industry, investment and commerce, Anthony Hylton, also praised Zacca for “leading the country’s private sector advocacy group and its efforts to promote private sector-led growth and development for Jamaica”.
Hylton also made special mention of Zacca’s leadership in ensuring that the social partnership agreement was signed to create national dialogue on issues relating to economic growth and development.
“I must also highlight (Chris’) role on the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) in the creation of an enabling business environment. You have truly championed the interest of the private sector, and today the business landscape and the Government of Jamaica are better for it,” he said.
Hylton said the relationship between the public and private sectors is decidedly stronger and more focused on collaboration to facilitate wealth creation.
The PSOJ was established in 1976 as a national organisation of private sector associations, companies and individuals working together to promote a competitive and productive private sector.
— JIS
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Zacca lauded for contribution to nation building
