The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's second day in Jamaica saw the couple undertake a variety of engagements.
This morning, William and Kate were received by Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his wife Juliet.
Conversation quickly turned to the country's growing desire to remove the monarch as head of state, with reports suggesting significant moves could be made in the coming months to coincide with Jamaica's 60th Independence Day this August.
The Prime Minister said, "We're very, very happy to have you and we hope you've received a warm welcome of the people. Jamaica is a very free and liberal country and the people are very expressive —and I'm certain that you would have seen the spectrum of expressions yesterday."
Prime Minister Holness added: "There are issues here, which as you know, are unresolved, but your presence gives us an opportunity for those issues to be placed in context, to be out front and center and to be addressed as best we can. But Jamaica is, as you would see, is a country that is proud of its history and very proud of what we have achieved. And we're moving on and we intend to fulfill our true ambitions and destiny to become an independent, developed, prosperous country."
A video of the conversation.
This was not your usual start of a bilat in front of the cameras @AndrewHolnessJM in the strongest terms telling the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge that Jamaica is “moving on” and intends to “fulfil our true ambitions as an independent prosperous country” pic.twitter.com/I4Z1aYfLH1
— Rhiannon Mills (@SkyRhiannon) March 23, 2022
'Sources tell PEOPLE that William and Kate were aware of the situation and the protests. Any decision about becoming a republic is for the people and government of Jamaica, the sources point out. William is expected to acknowledge the issue of slavery in his speech on Wednesday evening.
At 49, Holness is Jamaica's youngest leader to date. He vowed to turn Jamaica from a constitutional monarchy into a Republic during his election campaign. He was elected to lead the country in 2016 and on taking office, said his government would introduce a bill to replace the Queen with "a non-executive president as head of state."
The Duke and Duchess signed the visitors book.
The couple received an official gift of Appleton Estate Ruby rum, created by Dr Joy Spence, the first female master blender.
The official office of the Prime Minister is Jamaica House.
The next port of call was a significant one for the Duchess - she delivered her first speech of the tour during a visit to Shortwood Teachers' College in Kingston.
Kate told guests, "I truly believe we are on the cusp of one of the biggest opportunities for positive change in generations."
More on Kate's speech from People:
"It is so wonderful to hear your ideas and enthusiasm for teaching and the hopes you have to influence the lives of young people," she said.
"Shortwood is obviously a very special place, with a proud history," she said of the school, which was founded in 1885. "Because, as you know, it has been supporting teachers and therefore the children of Jamaica for over one hundred years."
"It is when we learn how to form relationships, how to connect to one another, how to manage our feelings and emotions. It is when we learn to develop a sense of identity, belonging and worthiness," the Duchess noted. "And it is when we shape our values and understanding of the world we live in."
She continued, "That is why I am so passionate about early childhood. Because we are doing something much more than building healthy children. We are nurturing the children and the adults that they will become, the families they will build and the communities they will be part of."
A video from Roya Nikkhah.
The Duchess of Cambridge gave a speech at Shortwood Teacher College, hailing the “crucial” role of teachers “at the front line”in shaping the early years: “We are on the cusp of one of the biggest opportunities for positive change in generations.” #RoyalVisitJamaica 🇯🇲 pic.twitter.com/roViyoTyUW
— Roya Nikkhah (@RoyaNikkhah) March 23, 2022
Scenes outside the school ahead of the arrival.
Shortwood Teachers’ College was founded in 1885 as part of the package of widespread social, economic and political reforms, spearheaded by Sir John Peter Grant, who was appointed Governor of Jamaica in 1866.
The College, fully financed by government, was first located in lower Barbican, but it was later removed to Camperdown, following a case of yellow fever. It remained at that location until 1887 when the government purchased part of the Shortwood Estate, the property on which the College now stands. It was at this time that the College came to be called Shortwood Teachers’ College.
#RoyalVisit2022: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge speak with students and staff at the Shortwood Teachers' College in St Andrew. The Royals discussed teaching styles as well as other issues affecting the education sector. - Kenyon Hemans video #RoyalVisitJamaica pic.twitter.com/kLhDC3Gqrf
— Jamaica Gleaner (@JamaicaGleaner) March 23, 2022
The college is passionate about early years education, a primary area of focus for the Duchess.
The Duke and Duchess visiting a school adjoining the teacher training college. pic.twitter.com/PCp3saO6vM
— Richard Palmer (@RoyalReporter) March 23, 2022
'Shortly after arriving and being met by College Principal Dr. Claudette Barrett-March, the couple were taken to the John F. Kennedy Library for a discussion around early years in Jamaica and the College's research faculty.
After their discussion, they walked to the Practising Infant and Primary School to meet children and their parents. This school adjoins the campus and provides teacher training opportunities for students and is where the research undertaken by Faculty staff is put into practice.'
The Duchess chatting with teaching students.
The Duchess of Cambridge meets teaching students at Shortwood Teachers’ College in Kingston. pic.twitter.com/0lS9FIHgwi
— Richard Palmer (@RoyalReporter) March 23, 2022
Kensington Palace said: "Supporting early childhood development is critical to societies right around the world. Here in Jamaica it is an important priority and it was fantastic to meet the next generation of early years professionals at Shortwood Teacher’s College this morning."
William and Kate's next stop was Spanish Town Hospital.
The hospital is celebrating its 70th birthday this year.
The Duke and Duchess spoke with frontline staff who shared their stories from the pandemic. As with medical teams all over the world, they went above and beyond at great personal sacrifice over the past two years.
Staff outside the hospital.
In accordance with guidelines, the Duke and Duchess donned masks.
Kate views the 'Tiny Heroes' wall.
The Duchess was effortlessly sophisticated in a crisp white Alexander McQueen trouser suit.
Kate wore McQueen's Classic Single Breasted Blazer. The leaf crepe piece features peaked lapels, long sleeves and four buttons.
Kate accessorised with her Maria Black Cha Cha earrings.
Innominate93 suggests Kate also wore this lovely bracelet by the designer.
Coming Up: William and Kate will travel to Montego Bay to meet the Jamaican Defence Force before attending a glittering banquet tonight.
A professional working woman’s look, tuned to the occasion. I can’t wear orange and don’t love it on Catherine but it works on this tour. Good luck to William as s peacemaker today.
ReplyDeleteKaren in Virginia
The bag is from the same vintage shop
ReplyDeleteOh dear ! Kate really perfect on this tour. I love everything: the straight hair, the straight pants, the matching top with the handbag
ReplyDeleteThey both look lovely today! ♥️
ReplyDeleteI don't like it at all, but I can't complain, I have loved everything else she has worn on this tour.
ReplyDeleteSame. I think different shoes would help
DeleteSharp outfit! Love the pop of orange and the beautiful white suit will work in some many futureoutings! Sue
ReplyDeleteKate continues to rock colour - this time a pop of orange in blouse and handbag. Love the chic white suit. Perfect for the Island vibe. I imagine that leaving behind wool coats, boots, scarves, and stepping into the sun and heat of the Caribbean. They’re glowing!
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks gorgeous, really sharp and on point with her attire. Somewhat disappointed in the Duke's attire. A proper suit was required to meet the Prime Minister.
ReplyDeleteI truly agree about Prince William's attire. So far it is evident that not much effort was put into his wardrobe, which I can understand as there are more important issues that need to be addressed. Still, a minimum effort could have been made.
DeleteCouldn't agree with you more. He definitely needs a make over and or help from a stylist a few times a year for shopping. The Duchess has looked stunning on this tour. Regardless both are doing a great job and look like they are enjoying themselves. S. ☺
DeleteMay I please have the bag?? I loved the dress yesterday evening and like this look, too. It seems to me that 1950s vintage may not be a good idea symbolically but the outfits are great. I am enjoying this tour very much, especially the bobsleigh team! Really loved the video of the barrier reef. I do not know why they are touring -- it seems like an unfortunate PR blunder but then it also seems like it might help island tourism a bit. It is taking my mind off of Ukraine a bit. I am continuing to like Kate's hair -- and I would love for her to extend some of this fun dressing to her usual "job," but perhaps she feels she needs more of a uniform in day-to-day events.
ReplyDeleteMy understanding is that the tours are decided upon by either the UK government or because an invitation has been extended by the country. But this time around has certainly had a fair number of uncomfortable moments for William and Catherine.
DeleteBorder Terrier lover
I'm thinking now that these are not new aspirations for these nations and were well known when the tour was planned. We see the people can be welcoming and friendly to visitors while still retaining their ideals. I don't understand why a commonwealth is needed rather than just equal partners in the world.
DeleteYes, that's correct. It's usually a request from the government or invited to visit. It is indeed a tricky visit. I thought that former model that turned her back on The Duchess was very rude . She really left no one down but herself by displaying her bad manners in public. I'm wishing The Prince the best of luck with his speech tonight, hopefully it will well received. S. ☺
DeleteThese tours are most often made at the request of the Foreign Office. In this case, the idea is to help strengthen Commonwealth ties, which are on slightly shaky ground, given the Republican tendencies that are rearing their heads in various nations, along with issues involving British colonialism. It's not about tourism.
DeleteGorgeous as always.
DeleteI think the woman who "snubbed" Kate actually did not do so. She chatted with Kate before and after -- likely the wind kept her from hearing Kate.
DeleteYes, they seem to have had cordial exchanges, no snubs. As usual, the tabloid media were fabricating conflict. That's their stock-in-trade, after all. They think it sells. Why anyone bothers to believe them is a mystery.
DeleteI wonder who 'styled' Catherine for this trip? LOVING the choices - She looks amazing. And all the vintage - inspired.
ReplyDeleteI think they are handling the very difficult and uncomfortable political situation extremely well, still giving their all to the people. I am also super impressed with Kat's wardrobe...just wow!
ReplyDeleteIs she wearing the opposition party's colors? That may create a bad image
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful outfit, very chic, fresh and stylish. The pants and white jacket fit well. Love the pop of colour and frill at the neckline of the blouse, adds interest. The orange handbag is divine, love the shoes.
ReplyDeleteAnother great outfit. The white suit with the softer texture but vibrant color looks wonderful. I have several vintage handbags myself and love them so thrilled to see her using one. I am not a big fan of the shoes but white shoes are difficult and they work with the suit, not quite sure what else she could have worn.
ReplyDeleteI think Kate’s done a great job with her fashion selections on this tour. As we have come to expect, she’s very thoughtful in what she chooses to wear, and it’s apparent that she is aiming to be respectful of her hosts and the environment. In previous tours, I’ve sometimes found her choices to be a little too costumey, but halfway through this tour, all I’m seeing in her mix of tropical colors is a true-to-herself ode to the region.
ReplyDeleteWell said zipzipzippy, completely agree!
Delete👍
ReplyDeleteI love the white suit! The whole look is spot on for me.
ReplyDeleteWell, this is a nice enough look, striking a good balance between polished/professional and tropical/casual, but nothing remarkable. In fact, I find the cut of the jacket a little skimpy and the fabric stiff in effect, lacking the sense of drape that I always look for in a jacket or blazer. That surprises me in a McQueen piece.
ReplyDeleteI do like the contrast between the white suit and the orange blouse. It's very attractive.
The vintage bag is to die for. I love it, even though I have to reiterate my views on the practicality of such small, top-handle affairs. On the other hand, the Duchess's hair is looking limp and just really over-long. I'm starting to feel an almost uncontrollable impulse to shout at her pictures, "PLEASE GET IT CUT!" just to release my frustrations over her hair.
Another beautiful outfit! I must say so far the fashion has been amazing. Kate looks wonderful!
ReplyDeleteKate looks great again. William need a little HELP, either he needs a stylist or ask his wife for some help, he is set in his ways so a bit more difficult to change. Maybe one day he will surprise us. I understand Jamaica want to be a country on the World stage? I hope they can make it. What I found a bit tasteless was the Women with either her daughter or grand daughter and taking her dream away, by having written on a sign Princes and Pss are in a Fairytale. On her sign was something about not wanting the Queen , Charles and William as head of State. They need to say sorry and wanting money paid, for years of Slavery. Some organizer told the people to do that. But where was the organizer? I find there is a time and place for everything, but not at this visit. I wonder, if the mother or grandmother pay the girl money when she is older, for making her stand out there; the little one did not look to happy. One should never involve children in what adults want to do, I would say it may even be Child abuse?. OMO. To the manager of this site, if this comment is against the site rules, please delete it. Thank you. BTW I enjoy this site it is very informative.
ReplyDeleteWho is dressing William? I wish they had put a little bit more effort into his wardrobe. She looks absolutely gorgeous and I love her style during this tour. My favorite has been the pant/suit she wore while departing Belize. Loved that look. I also like the straight hair on her. It looks very stylish and professional.
ReplyDeleteI was a little taken aback by the abruptness of speaking about Jamaica's intentions by the Prime Minister. I didn't feel it was the place or time to get into inflammatory topics. I suppose that's what separates leaders and politicians, a leader would never put foreign dignitaries on the spot like that. Unfortunate.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunate? Looks more like very bad manners. He got voted in because of his call for a Republic. Diplomatic wise not a good look for the leader of a country. Being rude to your guests is just unacceptable. Especially when you put them on the spot and do it in front of the world's press. S. ☺
DeleteI’m glad he addressed it. It’s the elephant in the room anyway. He wasn’t rude about it.
DeleteOh yes god forbid we make the royals uncomfortable. All this talk of manners and decorum completely misses the point, and is only a tool to further control. I’m glad he said what he did. Absolutely his prerogative as a leader representing his people. He ran on a platform that included separation. But sorry if it didn’t pass muster with the tone police.
DeleteOf course, as is his right to. I just think time and place for everything. We all know they will become a Republic as soon as possible. I've read in the news could take years because of their laws. S. ☺
DeleteI thought he was rude, and was speaking for his electoral basis not to his guest. As Tammy said, like a partisan politician not a statesman. Also I found his remarks misleading and manipulative. Jamaica IS an independent country, like Australia and Canada. Like Australia and Canada the Queen is head of state. And doesn't interfere in politics. If Jamaica doesn't like this regime, they can absolutely become a Republic, nothing is hindering them.
DeleteJust a geopolitical thought. The link that having the Queen as head of state provides with the UK is something of an advantage. China is effectively buying the carabean countries, they are heavily indebted. Judging by what is happening in Asia and Africa, Jamaica may not like the Chinese rule better. Anyway, if they are on the way to a Republic and know they cannot be stopped, trying to keep the best relationships with the UK would have been cleverer than this show of bad will. Also a better move if they want reparations, the UK won't grant anything if it isn't in their interest, and there is no international court that can force them.
I had bags like this when I was 14 -- they are fun!
ReplyDeleteGreat suit, but isn't she hot wearing a jacket and long sleeved blouse? :)
ReplyDeleteI enjoy your coverage of this tour, Charlotte. As always! Thank you for the hard work you do.
ReplyDeletei love the outfit choice very beautiful i love the bag
ReplyDeleteInteresting reports on an important tour. Kate wearing a Jamaican jewelry designer's work will send their sales through the roof. That makes at least one more Jamaican with reason to be grateful to British royals! Seriously, when William and Kate are gracious, positive and classy it strikes a sour note for the current PM to say they'd rather do without Britain. The British Caribbean has benefited from enormously from their connection with England. If Jamaica follows the pattern, they won't do well from breaking that connection. Anyway, Kate is a star from a fashion perspective as well as from her natural good qualities.
ReplyDeleteNothing against Will and Kate but colonialism had many more negative effects than is ever talked about. Not just slavery either. To act like Jamaica (or any other country for that matter) owes the Royals something is part of the problem.
DeleteI love the white suit on the Duchess . The handbag is too cute.
ReplyDeleteI love the bag!
ReplyDeleteLove the suit with that pop of color. The whole look works so well but would have been better with another pair of shoes. I dislike white heels in general, but that's just me.
ReplyDeleteShe looks sharp, the suit is great and I’m sure she’ll get a lot of rewears out of it.
ReplyDeleteThe school and the hospital are very traditional engagements. I feel like Jamaica has had a better schedule than Belize.
This is a fabulous pantsuit, the pants and jacket fit perfectly. Love the orange blouse with frilled neckline, adds interest. The pearl drop earrings and bracelets are the perfect finishing touch.
ReplyDelete