Sports Minister Olivia Grange says she felt a major sense of accomplishment after tabling the green paper on the Entertainment, Culture and Creative Economy Policy in the House of Representatives on Wednesday (October 8).

While speaking at the launch of Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival on Tuesday, held at 10a West Kings House Road in St. Andrew, she briefly expressed her internal satisfaction. The minister further noted that it was especially validating after being reappointed to her seat following the recently held general election.

“Today, it was my greatest pleasure to table the green paper on the Entertainment Culture and Creative Economy policy; the policy that will embrace all aspects of our entertainment and culture,” Grange said.

“It is going to make a world of difference,” she mused.

The minister explained that at the centre of the policy is a section about festivals, because “there are more reggae festivals in the world, than there [are in] Jamaica, which means we in Jamaica have given music that has penetrated all corners of the world”.

She said the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival is a perfect example of how important it is for Jamaicans to enjoy and promote what they have created, which is in line with what the policy defends.

“Rum is a part of our history. It’s used for all kinds of things, and reggae is who we are. We have a music that, it’s not just a music, but it’s a lifestyle. And, as Jamaicans, we love to party. We love festivals, and so I’m really happy that I’m here to be a part of the launch,” Grange said.

She also applauded Jason Henzell, co-director of the upcoming event scheduled to be held November 7-9, along with the team of organisers for bouncing back in St. Elizabeth following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024.

The Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival was first held in 2023, but was not staged last year, due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl, resulting in the upcoming showcase being its second.

There were samples of the food, energy and entertainment lineup that can be expected at the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival, especially the food in the form of sunrise wellness breakfast from Kamila’s Kitchen, and fine dining by renowned chef Oji Jaja.