Jamaica’s number one radio station Irie FM has been hailed for its pioneering work in changing how society treated people from certain backgrounds, through the acceptance of reggae music and its philosophies.

Opposition spokesman on culture and entertainment, Senator Damion Crawford lauded Irie FM for creating what he called a ‘chink in the system’, which resulted in the disruption of self-hate.

He noted that society had decreed that some persons of certain social status were deemed unsuitable for prime time, and as such, they had low self-esteem, and did not strive to achieve goals deemed out of their league.

Senator Crawford said Irie FM helped Jamaicans accept who they are, especially those of Afro-descent.

He described the staff of Irie FM as soldiers who continue the war against self-hate.

He was the guest speaker at Irie FM’s long service award ceremony, at Couples San Souci, last evening.

Staff who worked with the company for over 10 years, through to those who have been with the company since inception over 30 years ago, were recognized for their service.