Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hailed cultural icon Lousie Bennett Coverley, for allowing Jamaicans to recognize the power of the Jamaican language.

He was addressing the statue unveiling ceremony in Gordon Town, St. Andrew, yesterday (Sep 7).

The statue of Ms Lou, is part of government’s plan, to establish Miss Lou Square in Gordon Town, as a lasting tribute to the Mother of Jamaican culture.

The Prime Minister said Jamaica needs to return to the space where people easily identify, associate with, and are proud of their culture, so the government has started the process by erecting the symbols of those who have worked to build and create value in the culture.

Mr. Holness pointed to Ms. Lou’s role, in bringing Jamaica’s language to the world stage, and mastering the English language.

The Prime Minister said Ms. Lou played an integral role in the development of pop culture, and its use of the Jamaican language.

He expressed appreciation to Ms. Lou for creating a cultural asset that is brand Jamaica.

Meantime, there were mixed reactions to the statue, depicting cultural icon Louise Bennett Coverley.

The statue, created by sculptor Basil Watson, was unveiled in Gordon Town, St. Andrew yesterday.

Irie FM carried the ceremony live, and patrons shared their views with hosts Kabu Maat Kheru and Mutabaruka.

While some said the statue was a true representation of Ms. Lou, others said it was not as full-figured as the icon.