Jamaican PM Visits Lashings

We were honoured to welcome the Jamaican Prime Minister to stay at Lashings Boutique Hotel in July.

A proud moment as our team member Anika Elliott shares a hug with the PM.

The Most Honourable Andrew Holness MP was in our parish of St Elizabeth to launch a new irrigation scheme, which will benefit local farmers in the nearby Pedro Plains area. Our local MP Floyd Green joined him to thank him for all his efforts to help facilitate this. Mr Green stayed at Turtles' Nest Villa, which is managed by Lashings.

Mr Holness and Mr Green at Turtles' Nest Villa

Mr Holness said: "I can say with pride that the Pedro Plains Irrigation Expansion Project is no longer a promise, it is happening. With an investment of $26 billion, this project will bring water from the Black River, supported by three reservoirs, multiple pumping stations, and a modern system of pipes and laterals. It will also include a nine megawatt solar energy system.

"This is the largest irrigation project in Jamaica’s history. It will transform nearly 10,000 acres of farmland and improve the lives of over 6,000 farming families in southern St. Elizabeth."

These farms supply all the island with produce, as well as Treasure Beach, so it's hoped it will be a boost to the economy. Lashings is proud to use local fruit and vegetables in our restaurants, along with ingredients grown in our gardens.

The PM then went on to tour Treasure Beach and in particular Billy's Bay, which was hardest hit by Hurricane Beryl a year ago but has fully recovered thanks to community action and support. He said: "Every parish has its own personality and I’m feeling the warmth and kindness of the people of St Elizabeth.'

Lashings owner David Folb said: "Lashings is very grateful for the PM's recognition of the work we do here in Treasure Beach: supporting local jobs, eco-tourism and building a stronger community together."

The PM with Lashings owner Lisa Folb and manager Shanakay Roach.