Minister of District Administration, Works, Lands and Agriculture, the Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, JP recently (Tuesday 22 February) unveiled a commemorative plaque sited under a large neem tree near the George Town Library.
The plaque recognises this tree as the first of its kind to be planted in the Cayman Islands.
During his tenure as Department of Agriculture Director during the 1970s, Dr. Joseph Jackman brought the first seeds from Montserrat (in October 1975).
Wording on the plaque confirms that the neem tree is one of the world’s most beneficial plants. Native to India, Burma, Malaysia and other countries in that region, all parts of the tree are said to have medicinal use. It has been used in Indian medications for thousands of years.
Outfitted with seating at its base, the George Town tree is now a lush and massive plant that provides shade for the lunchtime crowd and others seeking a quiet place to rest or chat.
Minister O’Connor-Connolly said that Cayman needs to celebrate its agricultural history and should share the stories with residents and visitors alike.
Dr. Jackman – who was also the Islands’ Chief Agricultural and Veterinary Officer between 1976 and 1982 – was on hand for the unveiling, as was Recreation Parks and Cemeteries Unit Director Jonathan Jackson.
(GIS)
