Full Calendar for Minister Henry

New Transport and Works Minister L. Michael Henry's first stop after being sworn in on Friday, September 14, 2007 was at the Ministry under his portfolio. He was greeted by Permanent Secretary Dr. Alwin Hales along with other senior members of staff with whom he held introductory talks.

During the Minister's first full week he met with all senior personnel within the Ministry. In speaking to the Transport and Works technocrats, Minister Henry highlighted his vision and plans for the sector, including various road works, plans for airport development among others. The Minister told the staff that what is important to him is 'performance that flows from being guided by leadership.'

The Minister also visited a number of the Ministry's Agencies, stopping first at the Port of Kingston, which falls under the purview of the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ). There, he observed the off-loading of four new cranes. This was followed by a visit to the Corporate Offices of the PAJ where he was updated with the progress of the Half Way Tree Transport Centre as well as other projects being undertaken by that entity. He also spent an entire day at the National Works Agency (NWA) being enlightened on various projects for which the Agency is responsible.

Other Agencies visited by the Minister included, Air Jamaica, which was recently returned to the Ministry's portfolio responsibilities; Highway 2000; the Toll Authority; NROCC and Transjamaican Highway. The week's activities concluded with a social function at which the Minister took the opportunity to interact with Agency heads and other members of staff.

Upcoming weeks are expected to be very busy ones for the Minister as several meetings and activities are on his schedule. He has however signalled his intention to adopt a 'hands-on' approach to the operations of the Ministry, making him equal to the challenges which await.