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by pltm
Deputy Premier, Hon. Dr. Kedrick Pickering said his love for the environment is deep and vowed to ensure that it is protected.
Speaking at the ceremony to mark the observation of Arbour Day 2016, Dr. Pickering said that he believes that the environment is infinite and should be well preserved for future generations.
"I want to emphasize that although I am an elected official, my contribution to the environment, National Parks is more than skin deep. I use to serve on the National Parks Trust before I became an elected official. My love for the environment of this country is something that I am deeply committed to because I see the environment as an infinite resource," the Natural Resources Minister said while speaking at the First Impressions School, in Johnson's Ghut, today, Friday, November 25, 2016.
(PLTM) - He said, "One (environment) that if we treat it well, it will equally treat us well, and we will continue to reap the benefits of it. We have a duty to these children sitting here to ensure that we protect the environment, that we preserve it and present it better than in the way we received it."
Arbour Day is being observed under the theme, “Sage Mountain: A Living Legacy” and highlights the relationship and importance of plants and people.
"One of the most important facet of building this nation, is the protection of our environment; and we are standing on the shoulders of persons who had the vision and the foresight of what was important, and what was necessary," Dr. Pickering said.
"If we are going to ensure that these children who are sitting here today have a bright future, we absolutely must protect the natural environment that this country is so fond of."
The National Parks Trust honoured staff stalwarts, Mr. A.O. Shirley (MBE), who passed away earlier this year, as well as living members of the Trust staff, Mr. Denville Hodge and Mr. Ganshoun Harry.
Following today's ceremony, several trees were planted at the school in honour of Mr Shirley. The land is owned by his family.
"...If we get all of these children here to plant a tree each, the BVI will become a forest in the not too distant future. I encourage the children of First Impressions to nurture these trees," Dr. Pickering stated.
During the event the students did several performances including, discouraging developments which can harm the environment.
Winners of the poetry competition and Radio Trivia Quiz series on ZBVI Radio, were presented with their prize.
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