The JAS pays tribute for the late great Agriculturalist, the Hon. Roger Clarke

Senator Norman Grant, President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) expressing grief over the untimely demise of 74 year old, the Hon. Roger Clarke, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries said that, “The JAS’ Board of Management and staff, our over 220,000 farmers in Jamaica and all agricultural stakeholders are deeply saddened by the passing of an exceptional Jamaican.

"In his death, we have lost a veteran leader who always worked for the greater good of those he served. Following his surgery, he was recuperating well and spoke openly about his desires to resume work as soon as possible”. He went on to say that “Roger will be remembered as a champion of the powerless, a great parliamentarian and a conviction politician. Every a jovial spirit, he was also known for speaking his mind. Whether you agreed with him or disagreed with him, everyone knew where he stood and what he stood for.”

Senator Grant continued that, “We are comforted by the memory of his full and inspiring life and are proud of his devotion to helping others as he sought to change the sector for the better. He served the agricultural sector for over 50 years in various capacities, namely as Minister of Agriculture, first from 1998 to 2007 and again from 2012 until the time of his death. He is also a former president of the St. Elizabeth JAS/ABS, and a Board Member. He led the recovery of the agricultural sector following the ravages of Hurricane Sandy, which resulted in the sector achieving .8% growth of domestic crop production in the 3 and 4 quarters of 2013 and an astounding 18% growth in the 1st quarter of 2014.

The JAS, including our Commodity Associations and the farmers of Jamaica join forces in saluting this great son of our soil and express condolences to his wife, Mrs. Sonia Clarke, his son and daughter, as well as his wider family. In their own ways, they are all a tribute to him as a husband, father, and a decent human being.

For more information, please contact:
Senator Norman W. Grant JP
President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society
jaspresident2012@gmail.com or mobile 1.876.469.3242