PRIME Minister Bruce Golding said this morning that Jamaica has failed to achieve the dreams of equality, economic stability and basic community development embarked upon close to half a century ago when the country gained independence from Britain.

He said, however, that the dreams can still be attained with hard work, and are refreshed and renewed each time a Jamaican is born.

Golding was speaking at the Independence Day ceremony at Kings House this morning.

For his part, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, reflecting a glimmer of hope, said that our dreams can be fulfilled and we can succeed if we believe in ourselves and our country.

He said the turbulent times seem to have shaken the faith of citizens, but we can take hope in the ability of our leaders to come together.

And Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller, in a message read by Bobby Pickersgill, said Jamaica has achieved much, despite the many drawbacks.

My brothers and sisters, the evidence [of achievement] is overwhelming despite our challenges, Simpson Miller said.