Jamaica's Labour Minister, Portia Simpson, will be the keynote speaker at The Bermuda Jamaican Association's Banquet celebrating the 35th anniversary of that island's independence.

Jamaican Association Social Committee Chairman Baris Brown said the event, which takes place on August 2 at the Hamilton Princess, will also be attended by Jamaican Consul General to New York Kay Baxter-Collins.

The black-tie soiree, taking place under the patronage of Jamaican-born Supreme Court Judge Norma Wade, will include cocktails and dinner as well as a special performance by a local dance group who are planning a show with a Jamaican theme.

Mr. Brown estimates more than 900 Bermuda residents are either born in Jamaica, or have strong family ties with the island.