Sir Branford Taitt was presented with a token for his commitment and contribution to the manufacturing industry, by the President of the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA), David Foster. Looking on (from left) are Lady Taitt and daughter; Bobbi McKay, Executive Director of the BMA; Mohammed Nassar; former BMA President, Frank DaSilva; and Minister of Industry, Small Business Development and Rural Development, Denis Kellman.
Manufacturers honour Sir Branford Taitt
7/20/2012
The Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA) has recognised the commitment and contribution to the sector by Sir Branford Mayhew Taitt, a man dubbed ‘the father of manufacturing’ during his time at the helm.
Yesterday, at his Rock Dundo Park, Cave Hill residence, President of the BMA, David Foster, presented Sir Branford with an award hailing him as the most outstanding Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce in Barbados.
Bobbi McKay, Executive Director of the BMA, recalled that during Sir Branford’s tenure as Consul-General to New York with responsibility for the entire USA, he was successful in attracting American investment to Barbados in what was referred to ‘Operation Beehive’. She also noted that in light of this, in 1971 the then Prime Minister Errol Barrow invited Sir Branford to return to Barbados to serve as a Senator and Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce, a position which he held until 1976.
Frank DaSilva, former President of the BMA, acknowledged that his good friend and former work colleague was a leader in the industry, stating that Trinidadians were running scared of us then”. He also made a call for Government to rename Grazettes Industrial Park the Branford Mayhew Taitt Industrial Park, an area he frequented as a youngster.
Sir Branford Taitt expressed that it was a magnificent pleasure to be honoured by the BMA. He said that the award was so special it reminded him of the day he got married.
“I was lucky then and I feel lucky now.”
“I feel particularly special that manufacturers in Barbados have recognised me, I quote them, as ‘the father of manufacturing’ it is an honour. I want to thank all who made this day possible; I want to thank my friends who I can always rely on. I am truly honoured.” (TL)
