How important are their economic contributions to Jamaica?
Jamaica’s economy, like many others globally, is going through a challenging period. Jamaican Canadians contribute a great deal in terms of remittances, holiday visits and the acquisition of real estate and construction of homes in preparation for homecoming for permanent residence. There has been significant investment in these sectors. Some communities and institutions in Jamaica also benefit from a variety of contributions in areas such as health care, education and crime fighting. Q: What role can Jamaican Canadians play in fostering goodwill between the two countries? A: Well-known personalities such as (Portland Holdings’ founder and chair) Michael Lee Chin and (Ryerson University chancellor) Raymond Chang are only two of the many Jamaican Canadians who contribute positively to development in Canada and Jamaica. The Jamaican government, having recognized its role in this quest to foster and sustain good relations with Jamaicans overseas, established the Jamaican Diaspora Movement