Jamaica's historical landscape is littered with dates which have shaped the terrain as well as the future of the country's diverse inhabitants.

These events range from catastrophic to euphoric, with no shortage of recollection whenever the various milestones are mentioned.

From earthquakes, hurricanes and fires to Olympic glory and Independence, The Gleaner started chronicling Jamaica's roller-coaster history ride in 1834, and has had a front-row seat at every major event since.

With 2012 marking Jamaica's 50th year of Independence from Great Britain, The Gleaner continues to share events which made the news, this day, in 1962.

Minister praises PC bank's progress

The Ewarton People's Co-operative held its annual meeting in the community hall on Saturday, September 29. Among those present were John Gyles, minister of agriculture and lands. He praised the organisation for its market progress. W.B. Leslie, chairman, welcomed those present and spoke of the need for improvement in agricultural matters and the adverse manner in which labour demands are hampering progress.

Unions, cane farmers discuss bonus claims

Recent demands for a 12.5 per cent bonus on the 1962 sugar crop and other fringe benefits for workers employed by cane farmers were the subjects of discussion at a Jamaica Industrial Council meeting between cane farmers representatives and unions, held in Kingston on Monday.

In addition to the 12.5 per cent bonus, proposals were put forward by the unions for fringe benefits, which included vacation and sick leave for daily paid and task workers, together with a demand for severance-pay benefits.

Deplores conduct of civil servants

The rapid deterioration in the conduct and behaviour of the majority of civil servants is to be brought to the attention of the prime minister, the Hon Sir Alexander Bustamante. This was the decision taken at a recent meeting of the Rate and Tax Payers Association here. The matter was brought up by Eli Sampson who was supported by several members present.

He said it was observed that in many public departments, the public were treated with great discourtesy and disrespect, and added that such unhealthy and unwholesome behaviour should not be tolerated in a civilised and democratic country.

Estimates 'not properly prepared'

At the September meeting of the Westmoreland Parish Council, Councillor J.M. Thompson inquired what policy the council had used in preparing the programme in connection with the construction of new roads.

The chairman, Councillor S. T. Clarke, advised that unfinished roads had been included and a few new roads added.

Councillor Maxie Carey reported that he had asked the Ministry of Local Government whether they had forwarded estimates for flood damage. He said they were not properly prepared as there was no relation to landslides.