Following the public outcry and a suspension of the licenses by the Minister of Agriculture, one of the prospecting licenses was surrendered, while another remains in effect for the western region of Cockpit Country, including the town and environs of Accompong. “Voices” is a 2007 co-production of Vagabond Media and Jamaica Environment Trust, it aired on Jamaican television and was shown throughout Cockpit Country at community venues. The film describes the unique natural, historical, cultural, and social aspects of the region, presents the negative effects of bauxite mining in other parts of Jamaica, and expresses the desires of Cockpit Country residents to see their home-preserved without the impacts of mining. “Voices” is a 24-minute documentary featuring a cross-section of residents who live in Cockpit Country. A coalition called the Cockpit Country Stakeholders Group (CCSG) was formed to fight against mining in Cockpit Country, and as part of this effort the film “Cockpit Country – Voices from Jamaica’s Heart” was made. It is the source of water for five parishes, a sanctuary for endemic, rare and endangered species, the home of the Western Maroons, and a place of important cultural and historical significance for Jamaicans. Cockpit Country is one of two remaining areas in Jamaica with significant areas of healthy forests.

In 2006, the then Government of Jamaica permitted two prospecting licenses for mining in the Cockpit Country, the interior Western section of the island of Jamaica. “Cockpit Country – Voices from Jamaica’s Heart”

Cockpit country jamaica