If J'cans treat foreigners like this they will lose more

August 27, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

My family went out to play last Saturday, but the things that happened made us very unhappy.

In the morning, we travelled to Spanish Town to visit historic sites. I stopped my car at the suburb to add gas. I paid J$5,000, but later found out that the attendant just gave me the gas worth J$4,000. I asked why and he told me the gas was worth J$5,000.

At noon, we went to Hellshire beach. Some people were sitting at the front of the beach gate. One of them stopped and guided my car to park around his restaurant in a very, very enthusiastic way. When I parked my car, he told me to have lunch in his restaurant. We wanted to try the Jamaican taste after hearing Hellshire is genuine and original. The waiter told me first J$200 per one pound of the fish. When we finished, the restaurant charged me J$5,500 for three small red snappers. At this time, the waiter said one pound fish was worth J$1,200. I paid the bill having consideration of the safety for my family.

We then had dinner at Market Place. I ordered 4 dishes, including vegetables, worth nearly J$1,200 dollars. When I saw the bill, the meal had been charged for J$3,000. After I pointed out the error, the waiter told me they made a mistake. Was it really a mistake?

By cheating foreigners, some Jamaicans may earn more. But from a long-term view, Jamaica will lose more than what they got.

If Jamaicans uphold tourism as a pillar industry they can't treat foreigners this way.

Frank Chin

via NMIA

If J'cans treat foreigners like this they will lose more

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A coat of paint

August 27, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

No Government by itself, of whichever party, will extract Jamaica from the economic recession we are now experiencing. It will therefore be up to every Jamaican, at home and abroad, to find ways in which we can tackle the biggest threat to national stability — growing unemployment.

I wish, therefore, to renew a recommendation which I made in anticipation of our 50th anniversary of Independence, to cauterise the haemorrhage of male unemployment which threatens our future.

To begin with, we need to put a name to every unemployed male face that is out there. We need names and addresses of these idle hands that the devil will be only too happy to employ.

Next, as it is an accepted fact that every piece of property has an owner, the Government should therefore launch an islandwide "beautify your building" painting programme to encourage these owners to repaint their buildings, including fences; similar to the energy displayed for our Labour Day projects. This will utilise the manpower of these unemployed males. We can start with business establishments and in the downtown area first.

Owners who are absolutely unable to do their own painting project should be able to obtain soft loans from the Government to facilitate same. The paint manufacturers, in light of the anticipated volume, could reduce their sale prices as part of their contribution to the national effort. The workforce, whom we would now know by name, would be deployed under the stewardship of an older head, preferably a skilled painter.

Can you imagine how exhilarating it would be to the flagging Jamaican spirit to see all parish capitals consisting of cheerfully coloured buildings, as well as giving these young men — whom I see in our courts daily expressing their desire to be employed and able to provide for their children — a chance to share in producing this beautification effect.

I can hear the naysayers: "What happens when we've finished painting?" The answer is, we turn to repairing derelict or abandoned buildings, repairing rural roads; the fact is we simply keep finding work for idle hands, and it all starts with a coat of paint.

Finally, and most importantly, it would demonstrate to the rest of the country that the more privileged members of society — property owners — are prepared to play their part in preserving "Jamaica, land we love".

Howard Hamilton, CD, QC, JP

Kingston

A coat of paint

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Ja, where did we really go wrong?

August 27, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

"Give us vision lest we perish" are words from our country's national anthem, beautifully composed by Hon Hugh Sherlock, et al. I often think that it must have been a great day for those living at the time when Jamaica gained national independence. And, oh I imagine the music, dancing and happy looks on my forefathers' faces, but little did we know that gaining Independence was just the beginning.

As a young Jamaican I often wonder why our country and the world at large are like this. Why are so many people are being killed and abused, especially our children? Why have our leaders failed to put people first and live up to promises made? Why is our GDP so low? Why are civil servants so arrogant in their service to others? Why are there kids still in adult correctional facilities? Why do we continue to have broken families? And I can go on and on.

Jamaica where did we really do wrong? Is this the future we really want as a nation and people. We must realise that the Chinese cannot fix our economy, nor the Americans, because in the end the profits go back to those countries who invest in us. It is up to us to fix the economy. We have to stop the blame game and become civilised people that work together.

Our young people have a vision, why don't our elders listen? Enough wealth is here in Jamaica. People have the money they are only waiting on good and visionary leaders to wise up and fix the country. Let us rise up and save our nation.

Roger Goodwill

roger_goodwill14@hotmail.com

Ja, where did we really go wrong?

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Rastas should be the last to discriminate

August 27, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

In recent times quite a number of Rastafarian artistes have found themselves being blacklisted as promoting hatred against homosexuals, and indeed, other minorities. It is interesting how too many of our Rastafarians have seemingly forgotten how it feels to be the target of hate.

There seems to be confusion of freedom of expression and promotion of hatred. Nothing is wrong when Rastafarians preach their dislike for the gay lifestyle. That is freedom of expression. However, when they incite violence towards gays or urge the rest of us to be intolerant of them and their lifestyle, that's promoting hate.

If Rastafarians want to continue to reject the lifestyle of gay people, then that's fine. That's their right. However, why incite the rest of us to do the same?

Some Rastafarians will claim that their entire community cannot be seen as intolerant just because a few extreme members continue to incite this hate. However, the silence of the rest of their community, especially the silence of their leaders, is deafening. Silence in this case is not only consent -- it's agreement.

Only a few decades ago, the tables were turned against Rastafarians. Remember the discrimination that they used to face? They couldn't work in many places, they couldn't go to many schools, and they couldn't even walk on certain streets. Rastafarians were even being forced to shave their locks or even thrown in jail -- just because of their beliefs.

How is it that the Rastafarian community was so vocal against the discrimination that was being dished out to them, only a few decades ago, yet are so silent -- and in some cases supportive -- of the same discrimination that some of them are dishing out to other minorities? Why have the leaders of their community allowed them to switch from victim to victimisers?

With all the tribulations that Rastafarians were going through only a few decades ago, one would have thought that they, more than most, would understand that discrimination is not a nice thing.

Michael A Dingwall

Kingston

Rastas should be the last to discriminate

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Challenge your comrade peacefully

August 28, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

What is the principal reason Mr Shaw wants to challenge Mr Holness for the leadership of the Jamaica Labour Party? Are they operating like two contentious rivals? Wouldn't it be better for Shaw were to give the young prince a little more time before attacking him?

And who could it be, that rings out the bell for the challenge to come into effect? And does the challenger sees some mishaps in the leadership of Mr Holness why he wants to write him off? What has triggered this uprising? Did the young prince put himself in a position to be challenged, or is his is leadership so much at stake that he then has to contest the calling of his colleague?

If Mr Shaw had said that he wants to challenge Mrs Simpson Miller for the leadership of the country, or the government, it would sound more appropriate, or better, than targeting his own comrade.

Don't tarnish the good reputation of your party with unnecessary demonstrations or uncalled-for excitement.

You (plural) need to be careful about the type of messages, comments you are putting in the media, or sending out to the public, because they may cause people to think negatively about the party, which can result in them withdrawing their support.

Keep the atmosphere quiet, with signs of peace and tranquility.

Donald J Mckoy

donaldmckoy2010@hotmail.com

Challenge your comrade peacefully

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Let the people vote this time

August 28, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

To every leader across the world who speaks from the platform of democracy, it would be regarded as the practice of egalitarianism, freedom of choice and the birth-child of Universal Adult Suffrage for which Jamaica's founding fathers fought. However, somehow that notion has been lost on Andrew Holness and his team. How dare Andrew allow the supporters of his camp to rob the delegates of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) of their right to select their leader?

As far as I know, if the Labour Party has decided that they, for the first time, will select a leader democratically, then the delegates should be allowed to choose for themselves. No Member of Parliament should commit their "100 plus" delegates. Each candidate must be given an equal chance to win the support of the legally registered delegate population of the JLP.

For a man who has been championing that the JLP is bigger than he is, and that he would welcome a challenge, I am saddened and immensely disappointed that Andrew sat down and watched this injustice. It is clear that Andrew and his team have misunderstood the true meaning of democracy.

James Scott

Portmore

St Catherine

Let the people vote this time

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Rein them in, Andrew

August 28, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

While youthful exuberance may be excusable in some quarters, it is without a doubt inexcusable and unacceptable within and around the shores of the Jamaica Labour Party. Andrew Holness must now, before he is unable to, rein in his dogs. Andrew has allowed his ill-advised mouthpieces to castigate Audley Shaw publicly, putting at risk his reputation for selfless service to the Jamaica Labour Party as well as the Jamaican economy and the Jamaican people.

I am particularly disappointed in Babsy Grange for behaving like a virago on a political platform recently. For Messrs Warmington and Wheatley, I guess, we can't expect any better. However, as adults and political leaders they should be ashamed.

Any savvy Jamaican would fully appreciate the fact that Mr Shaw has been very temperate, so far, with respect to his public statements. He has shown much love and the utmost respect for the leader because of his undying love for the JLP. If you ask me, the man has done nothing wrong. He is dissatisfied with Mr Holness's leadership, or the lack thereof, and thus took up the welcome which was extended for a challenge.

Mr. Shaw is now being the boldest man in over 20 years to challenge for leadership within the JLP. He is showing guts. To further emphasise Audley's nobility, he was man enough to meet Andrew face to face and make his intentions known. It would be mighty conscious and wise of Andrew to rein in supporters. But, if they should maim Audley, let them not maim him for his selflessness, but for his ability to expose Andrew's indecisiveness and his inconsistencies with regards to democracy.

J Collins

Lucea, Hanover

Rein them in, Andrew

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Utter disgrace, Mr Holness

August 28, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

In 2011, after many years of rejecting the electoral process, I voted for the first time in a general election. I voted for a leader who posited that he was a new type of leader. A leader who was able to offer Jamaica a different style of leadership and politics — transformational, he affirmed. Somehow, that all left with the wind after he lost the election.

Since losing the election, Andrew Holness has now encamped himself with people who could be considered the most divisive and politically adulterated within the Jamaica Labour Party.

After watching how Andrew sat in glory, as his senior JLP supporters lambasted Audley Shaw at the mass rally in St Catherine on Sunday evening, anyone would have believed that Shaw was a member of the Portia Simpson Miller-led Cabinet. It is abominable and blasphemous to see stalwarts charge at their brother who has served Bustamante's party so very well.

It should now be declared as a crime against the people of Jamaica for politicians to refer to themselves as transformational. I am disheartened at the fact that Andrew could take a word that once gave, not only Jamaicans but, people across the globe a sense of hope and newness and corrupted it with his blatant inconsistencies.

It is clear that Andrew is powerless when it comes to uniting the JLP as he is powerless with regard to controlling his own senior members.

Doreen Wilson

Disgruntled JLP supporter

Utter disgrace, Mr Holness

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Who will rescue this building?

August 28, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

A few years ago, this building used to be a vibrant commercial entity that once housed a dry cleaning establishment. Over time, things have changed. For many months it brandished a 'for sale' sign, however, to date there seems to have been no takers.

A major consideration, from the point of view of prospective buyers, could be challenges related to parking in the Embassy of the United States firmly establishing itself as a stakeholder on the historic Hope Lands in St Andrew.

This development represents one of the latest sagas of the changing dynamics that continue to impact the Hope landscape. After all, this region has made a name for itself in terms of changing land use and the corresponding imprints left behind in the form of physical infrastructure and larger than life artefacts.

There was a time when the Hope Farm School, later the Jamaica School of Agriculture (JSA), dominated Hope. The sights and sounds of young men milking cows and supplying the government institutions have long gone and Hope now represents a multiplicity of housing developments, educational institutions and a commercial centre.

One of the lessons we can take from history is, from challenges arise opportunities. It is evident that attempts are being to vandalise the building. Intervention is required to save this building. Already, persons waiting on the outskirts of the embassy are illustrating the need for the building to be used as a possible rest stop. The design of the building could easily be retrofitted to provide physical rest for embassy visitors.

If sale of the property is an issue, could the owners consider a lease arrangement as a possibility -- perhaps to some government agency, such as the police for a possible checkpoint? The feasibility of the latter might come into question, however, given the close proximity of the Matilda's Corner Police Station.

Undoubtedly, there may be other viable alternatives, and it is hoped that more knowledgeable readers may come forward with these, in an effort to rescue this landmark.

Joan Francis

Museum and Heritage Preservation Officer

University of Technology, Jamaica

Who will rescue this building?

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The salt of the Earth

August 29, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

It seems that there are factions in our society, and even abroad in other countries, that seem not to want to hear from God or the things of his church.

I would like to endorse the position posited by our minister of national security on the subject of divine intervention. The comment made many unhappy, but let me assure those persons who might not believe in any such intervention that Jamaica is still primarily a Christian country, and God is very much alive and well in Jamaica, and we certainly do not intend to say any goodbyes any time soon.

In II Chronicles 7: 14, the Word says: "If my people which are called by my name should humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and will heal the land."

Those of us who know that God is true to his Word will also know that, while we make own efforts to solve our problems, in particular our crime situation, our efforts will all be in vain without the blessings and guidance of the Almighty.

Those who would silence the voice of the church, which is the beacon of light, and provides the moral compass of the society, will be engaging in an exercise of futility, and will know that the church will always speak out and take a position on issues that affect us and continue to be the conscience of our people.

Yes, the Bible is not the constitution, but our constitution is based on its biblical principles. It forms the core.

Cynthia Burton

cynthiacburton@hotmail.com

The salt of the Earth

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Challenge your comrade peacefully

August 29, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

What is the principal reason Mr Shaw wants to challenge Mr Holness for the leadership of the Jamaica Labour Party? Are they operating like two contentious rivals? Wouldn't it be better for Shaw were to give the young prince a little more time before attacking him?

And who could it be, that rings out the bell for the challenge to come into effect? And does the challenger sees some mishaps in the leadership of Mr Holness why he wants to write him off? What has triggered this uprising? Did the young prince put himself in a position to be challenged, or is his is leadership so much at stake that he then has to contest the calling of his colleague?

If Mr Shaw had said that he wants to challenge Mrs Simpson Miller for the leadership of the country, or the government, it would sound more appropriate, or better, than targeting his own comrade.

Don't tarnish the good reputation of your party with unnecessary demonstrations or uncalled-for excitement.

You (plural) need to be careful about the type of messages, comments you are putting in the media, or sending out to the public, because they may cause people to think negatively about the party, which can result in them withdrawing their support.

Keep the atmosphere quiet, with signs of peace and tranquility.

Donald J Mckoy

donaldmckoy2010@hotmail.com

Challenge your comrade peacefully

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Help, heterosexuals being victimised!

August 29, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

The age-old plea by gay rights organisations has long been fulfilled, so why do they continue to target the heterosexual community? I must admit that there was a time when gay people were regarded with much hate and scorn and were beaten in public, but this was usually reserved for the cross-dressers who paraded themselves through towns frustrating 'straight' people.

But the gays seem to have sharpened their tactics, and now the transgender community is rising rapidly. People have the right to do whatever they please, as long as it is within the borders of the law, so go ahead.

Jamaicans have recognized that it is one love to all, regardless of sexual orientation, class or creed, but the gays are not satisfied. I would like to truly know what is their agenda? It would seem like they are still living in the past, full of hatred towards what happened to their fellow gays.

Jamaica has been under so much pressure in recent times regarding the buggery law, which seems to be the ultimate target of the rich and powerful gay organisations. We are holding on by a mere string to keep the law in place.

If the buggery law is changed what will be next?

The heterosexual community, while not admitting it, is now becoming afraid because so much violence has been thrown against us. I condemn any Jamaican who will kill or abuse a person because he/she is gay, as violence is against the law. But I also condemn any gay who will victimise a straight person because they are advocating heterosexuality. Are you saying it is okay to demand gay rights, but it is wrong to promote heterosexuality?

Queen Ifrica, Buju Banton, Beenie Man and others have suffered because of utterances against the gay community. But I am sure that they all have learned to be tolerant and so have others. Gay advocates are so full of hate towards their straight nemesis, who have now become heavily victimised. We all need to coexist and live in peace, harmony and unity.

Alethia Buckle

abuckle@yahoo.com

Help, heterosexuals being victimised!

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Angry and disappointed at RGD

August 29, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

I visited the Twickenham Park offices of the Registrar General's Department on Wednesday August 21, 2013 and applied for my mother's death certificate. I opted for the express service, which is a three-day service. I was, therefore, expecting to get the certificate by the latest Monday, August 26, 2013.

When I called them on Monday they told me that the certificate is ready and the bearer is expected to drop it off at my house with in 24 hours. This was after I went through rigorous phones calls before finally speaking to a representative.

I took the day from work on Tuesday because I had a appointment with a law firm for 4:00 pm and up until now I haven't got any phone call or seen any bearer come at my house to drop off anything.

I have been calling the RGD and they have now given me the name of a courier firm in May Pen which, when I try to get them on phone, the phone line keeps ringing without a response. This only tells me that even if there is such a courier firm, the have given me the impression that they are not a reputable company.

I thought the RGD was way past this stage already.

I think they should scrap this express service and stop "mashing up" some people business, I shouldn't be hearing about a courier service. I paid RGD $2,350 for a three-day service and over a week later no certificate.

Mark Bell

mark.bellphoto@hotmail.com

Angry and disappointed at RGD

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Run a new-day campaign

August 29, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

I will never forget watching the Obama Presidential campaign of 2007/8 and 2012, it was a lesson in political strategy, burying the archaic methods of yesteryear of how to win elections without maligning your opponent and denigrating yourself in the process.

It was sheer genuis, their use of technology and dignified personal touch in their campaigning.

This is the model the JLP leadership aspirants should follow.

Politicians should know by now that they are not the most loved anywhere in the world.

We are entering a new era where citizens are demanding higher standard from their leaders. Those who fail to adhere will be rejected by the people. Like in the movies, the good guys always win.

Do not attack each other, trust me you gain no kudos from the voters, convince the country which one of you is best suited to lead the country, to create economic growth, create jobs, reduce crime, create good health care, and can unite the party and the country .

Considering electing a party leader is equivalent to electing a prime minister, or one in waiting, it should not be placed in the hands of a handful of people.

Let the candidates agree to a live debate. We want to see democracy at its best. The country is tired of both parties having leaders and surrogates who continue to live in the past; who beleive that a leader should not be challenged.

Haven't we learnt from the errors of the past? Could the chairman of both parties tell the country who selects these delegates who have so much power. And what is the criiteria used to select them.

The supporters of candidates must be careful how they attack each other, as we are judged by how we treat our own.

TonyMiles

tonymiles1940@gmail.com

Run a new-day campaign

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It can't be jobs at any cost

August 30, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

I am always fascinated by Omar Davies' belief in his own smartness. To some it could come across as arrogance, but he is so amiable.

He tells us that the biggest threat to the environment is abject poverty; for example, cutting woodland for coal (charcoal). His implication is that Portland Bight will be more damaged by woodcutting, overfishing, etc, than by the proposed development which would destroy not only the fishing grounds, but also the endemically rich Goat Islands.

Hundreds of jobs flow directly and indirectly from the fishing industry there, and given Jamaica's effort and potential in herbal medicines, destroying the Goat Islands also makes no sense. The number of jobs in the proposed logistics hub would, in any case, be limited, and likely to be filled by Chinese nationals — as we have seen repeatedly — rather than displaced local fisherfolk.

Perhaps most amazing is how our so-called representatives can ignore the environmental efforts of decades when enticed with sugar-coated offers. Heaven knows what the international funders of those environmental efforts must think of the casual casting off of environmental concerns by the Jamaican Government.

Of course there is also a need for jobs, as Omar Davies and others rightly remind us — as if we need reminding — and in some communities there have been tensions between those who benefit from new developments and those who are not blind to the bigger picture because they are not beneficiaries. In these terms, it is the (abject) poverty that is leading to environmental degradation by wanting to bring on, without due process, the damaging development.

As for the lack of local consultation, it is also amazing. The public, civil society and even the Opposition know much less than the foreigners dangling the baubles, all in the name of delicate commercial confidentiality. If new developments are really beneficial to both sides, what is the harm in discussing them openly? From Highway 2000, to Pear Tree Bottom, to JDIP, to the north-south leg of the highway, to Ian Fleming Airport, to the Air Jamaica slots, and so many other examples, we see utter contempt for the people, in the arrogant belief the 'ordinary' Jamaican cannot handle the issues.

Of course people want jobs and development, but not at any cost. Those less naive than me would immediately say that the driving force behind all the secrecy is bribery and corruption.

I am at the least encouraged by the backing-off from destroying the Cockpit Country a year or two ago, which was being sold in exactly the same terms as the Goat Islands. Good luck to the environmental lobby — which should be all of us — and the people of Portland Bight in their efforts.

Paul Ward

Kingston 7

pgward@cwjamaica.com

It can't be jobs at any cost

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It's about reform, not jobs

August 30, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

The Bank of Jamaica's latest economic report has indicated Jamaica's fifth quarter of contraction and, based on STATIN's research, unemployment is now up to 16.3%. While there is renewed focus on creating jobs and growth, insufficient attention is being paid to structural reforms. The Government is expected to create an environment which is conducive to investment, while private sector employers create jobs when there is an incentive to do so. In order to create sustainable jobs and long-term growth, structural reform must be a priority.

Furthermore, the view that emergency job programmes are good, because they provide short-term employment, thereby boosting consumer spending is fallacious. Investment in capital equipment and research drives growth.

Even if Jamaica's economic profile could attract a stimulus, very little would be achieved if reforms are avoided, Japan is a perfect example of this. Japan has received more than 10 stimulus packages, but the economy has not been rejuvenated, due to the absence of structural reforms.

Although agriculture in Japan is heavily subsidised, and the price of rice is supported by an 800% tariff, the sector is still uncompetitive. Jamaicans who believe in banning imported products, or placing tariffs on them, could learn from Japan.

It is an exercise in futility to speak about creating jobs and growth, without mentioning the need to reform the economy. Any country that is serious about courting foreign investors, will have a proper insolvency Act. New Zealand ranks number one on the World Bank's Doing Business Report, in terms of investor protection, Jamaica ranks 82, obviously the former will have an environement more conducive to investment.

There is also talk in some quarters about innovation, but innovation and entrepreneurship can only flourish when strong intellectual property laws exist.

Robust growth only occurs in an economy when the foundation is in place, and the present Administration has shown no commitment to reform. Everyone seems to be interested in growing the economy without reforming it, and if we continue on this path we should expect things to get worse, not better.

Lipton Matthews

lo_matthews@yahoo.com

It's about reform, not jobs

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We need the contractor!... at Sabina

August 30, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,

The Jamaica Tallawahs have delivered. Congratulations! They stuck to their guns and lived up their name by displaying a resilient spirit. And, with the help of good team management and leadership, they ultimately prevailed over the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

Congrats are also in order for Captain Chris Gayle who led the team well, despite his personal challenges of mental fatigue, etc.

It's also a good sign for the future of Jamaican cricket given that two other Jamaicans got awards who were not a part of the Tallawah franchise: Krishmar Santokie -- Man of the Series, and Sheldon Cotterell -- Future Star. Well done, guys.

Let's hope that given the success of the team and overwhelming spectator support that lights will now be installed at Sabina Park so the Tallawahs can build on their success and play their home games here, and not in a foreign territory, or worse yet lose the franchise. The future of the sport depends on it. Call a contractor!

Sherrene Bogle

sabogle@uga.edu

Sabina Park.jpg

Sabina Park

We need the contractor!... at Sabina

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Use successful principals to supervise others

August 31, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor, After having a series of consultations with a friend of mine, Carlton Bryan --who is a guidance counsellor -- I was taken up with his enormous insight and great vision for education in Jamaica. He drew my attention to a projection in the education system that could reap some benefit by the comprehensive overhauling of the system which will not be self-defeating. With the present unsteady situation with underperforming principals, who have put the whole education profession into disrepute, he highlighted that those principals within a certain jurisdiction who are performing above par should be given the privileged status of supervising the less competent principals within divisions. This principal must have the requisite know-how to command respect from his subordinates who should be able to critically assess them with closed-door dialogue. This should be done without condescending or the application of corrupt methods like cronyism or nepotism. Principals who are known performers, who can motivate their staff, like Albert Corcho of Calabar High School and formerly of Tarrant high School, or Esther Tyson of Ardenne High fame, could be used to pilot the programme to see its feasibility in the Corporate Area. This should be done to resurrect the moribund state in the growth of brilliant principals with innate capabilities to move their staff to higher heights. There should be proper subventions from the Ministry of Education to create an air of appreciation via incentives for these successful principals who are creating a better path for those whom they supervise. Every crisis situation can definitely come to an end if proper strategic measures are put forward like sensitising staff to mechanisms which are valid and viable. Principals must learn from the experienced ones of the proper procedure in reaching a state of compliance, with opening of their thought process to encourage flexibility. Paris Taylor Greater Portmore paristaylor82@hotmail.com Use successful principals to supervise others -->

Is all this charity above board

August 31, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor, We have a lot of businesses and other charitable donors giving back and making contributions to support schools and other charitable causes. Are these charitable donors allowed to write off their donations against taxes? If so, then it is the taxpayers' money that they are shelling out on the back end. While I applaud these efforts, I often wonder if there are any arms of government, specifically revenue agencies or departments, that carry out due diligence. This should be done if only to ensure that these entities are actually giving the sums that they proudly tell the public they are donating. I ask this question because it seems some of these entities -- some of them market rivals -- are simply trying to outdo each other in their "charitable giving". The minister of finance and the tax department should be concerned. Authnel Reid authnelreid@optonline.net Is all this charity above board -->

No farewell to God

August 31, 2013, 2:00 am

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Dear Editor,"Atheism's farewell to God," (Sunday Observer, August 25, 2013) by the Lord Bishop of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands was a welcoming response to The Gleaner's "Goodbye God..." (August 16, 2013) that should generate well-needed discussions about religion in Jamaica. According to The Gleaner's article, "the majority of Jamaicans will not believe in the existence of God" by the next three decades. Religion forms a collective unconsciousness of our people and is a powerful symbol that constitutes how we view human life. However, in support of what Bishop Gregory wrote, I wish to add that history reveals that it is the symbols or images, that is, 'the composite public impression' about God, which have always experienced rejection by each generation. As humanity advances intellectually, they are challenged to view concepts of the divine in new ways and reject outdated views/images of God. It is a fact that the educated, and in particular the prosperous, will want to forget God; so much so that Israel was warned not to forget God in prosperity (Deut 8:18-20) and one of the principal reasons why 'grace' is said at meals (Deut 8:10). In the Bible there exist examples of the evolution of belief. In the story of Saul's rejection as king over Israel, it was commonly believed that it was God who sent an evil spirit to torment Saul whenever he became depressed (I Sam 16:15); centuries later the writer of the epistle of James reminded the community of faith that "God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one" (Jam 1:13). When the Israelites were in exile in Babylon (586-538 BC) they encountered a view that creation was by different gods. This led them to rewrite and reinterpret the Babylonian creation epic, attributing all creation to one supreme being (Gen 1: 1-2:4a). Each generation has the responsibility to separate God's revelation from the prevailing culture, especially those that originated from humanity's views to be "an abomination to the Lord". For example, God's love in Jesus challenges human attitude to the wicked (Prov 17:15) who was rendered a "fool". Jesus' own teaching warned against calling fellow humans fools ( Mt 5:21-22), thus making God's love the new canon of human judgement (Mt 6:4-5). Currently some religious groups in Jamaica teach that Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testement, yet there exist scientific and literary proof known as the "Documentary Hypothesis" that shows the Bible's documents of poetry, prose, and law were formed through a long process, over many hundreds of years by different writers, sources and editors. We now know that the biblical community of Israel's first "Constitution" has been preserved as the "Ten Commandments" (Deut 5: 6-21); that it was inserted by a redactor in the older document (Exodus 20:1-21), replacing the original "Ten Words" given by God to Moses (Ex 34:14-28). All these discoveries should assist in the rethinking of religious symbols/images about God and to distinguish God's revelation from human thought and culture. Many Jamaicans currently suspend their intellectual ability to reason due to ignorance and fear when religion is to the fore, as against other subjects. Now is the time to examine these composite public impressions about God that need to undergo transformation in a post-modern world. Dudley C McLean II Mandeville, Manchester dcmduart@yahoo.com No farewell to God -->