Jamaica Observer

Dear Editor,

The provision of foreign aid to developing countries has been a major issue in Europe for many years now, and more states intend to build capacity in sectors like security and climate change through technical assistance.

For example, in Africa, Britain's emphasis will be security, and the Germans will be paying special attention to climate change in the Caribbean. Local leaders are lamenting this decision, on the basis that insufficient aid will reduce their capacity to solve regional ailments. However, we need to dispel the notion that Jamaica, or any other Caribbean state, is entitled to special treatment due to resource constraints.

Independent countries are just that, independent; they ought not be banking on the goodwill of their neighbours. We should be lobbying for strategic partnerships with our development partners, not aid packages. Leaders are expected to set the platform, for a country's development, but if our leaders see mendicancy as virtue, the pervasive dependency syndrome must not surprise us.

After 50 plus years of Independence, we gladly accept grants from the European Union to finance social programmes, and some see nothing wrong with a foreign power repairing Sabina Park. It would, however, be instructive for us to form strategic alliances with developed countries in order to boost internal capacity.

For example, recently South Korea and Indonesia signed an memorandum of understanding on e-government cooperation, both countries also agreed to conduct joint research in the field and exchange information related to trends and data on the use of e-government instruments and applications. Furthermore, the ambassadors of Germany and Brazil have also expressed an interest in building stronger economic linkages with Jamaica, but the objective of our leaders is to lobby for aid to pursue social objectives, clearly we have no interest in helping ourselves.

It was also disturbing to hear the prime minister and her sheep-like followers boast about the grant which she secured from the European Union. This cannot be seen as an achievement, because the European Union has been subsidising agriculture in Jamaica for years and most of the funds will be invested in sugar-related activities. So instead of diversifying the economy, we are trying to rebuild a sector that will never regain its former glory.

It is quite unfortunate that, as a result of asinine politicians, some Jamaicans foolishly believe that these aid packages and social programmes will bear fruit. But, then again, leaders reflect the general population. So if most voters are mendicants who don't have objectives, you expect them to elect equally inept persons.

Lipton Matthews

lo_matthews@yahoo.com

Our begging hat always extended

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Dear Editor,

I shake my head in sadness as a student and taxpayer. I just saw the Government's budget allocation for education and realised it is not one of the top priorities.

For only two billion dollars to be given to such a portfolio Education Minister Ronald Thwaites might have to say millions more "Hail Marys" to be able to manage.

I know governance is not an easy, but look at how many schools and educational projects are struggling to exist, not to mention university students who have it hard to make ends meet.

Is this really what they are giving to the future of this country?

I really want to hear the reasoning for one hundred billion for the finance and the other billions more to other sectors and not education. I can understand the importance of the national security portfolio and the expenses it incurs, but this is a case of you reap what you sow for both political parties.

If Jamaica is to have a brighter future, education is the way. Spend more on educating the masses. This is why we will be plagued by generations of poverty and none are willing to move from their seemingly 'comfortable' position. What can move them? Education.

The 'ghetto yutes' who are always on the corners or byways looking for something have nothing moving them to achieve it for themselves. What can move them? Education. A radical shake-up of priorities is necessary. The ministry's allocation must be enough that proper provisions can be put in place.

Colette Campbell

rastarjamaica@yahoo.com

Education is no priority in the budget

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Dear Editor,

The decision by the Portia Simpson Miller-led Administration to withdraw the bank withdrawal tax is a modern example of the potency of people power, which interestingly was a campaign slogan used effectively by the People's National Party (PNP) when hunting votes in the 2011 General Election campaign.

The lesson here is that people, properly informed and galvanised, can eke out favourable outcomes for themselves and, importantly, have the capacity to make governments sit up and listen. That political bluster helped buoy the sustained cries for a rollback and does not detract from the genuinely democratic character of the recent protests, even if the ignorance of some persons was exploited for political ends during the process.

This withdrawal of a tax proposition at budget time is reminiscent of the hasty withdrawal that Audley Shaw, then minister of finance, had to make a few years ago, after tabling a raft of General Consumption Tax (GCT) levies on theretofore zero-rated items, including tampons, wheelchairs, walking sticks, salt, etc. The deafening and sustained howls of protest could not be ignored by Shaw or his erstwhile Cabinet colleagues, including Andrew Holness, and the proposed new taxes were rolled back without delay. It is clear, therefore, that people power existed long before any recent political campaign.

The history of this and other countries is replete with similar, and perhaps more far-reaching episodes of the establishment bucking people power. This is a good thing for the fledgling democracies of Jamaica and other developing states. To know that a government will listen to the people engenders a sense of hope and peace of mind among the citizens of the country. This itch to make our voices heard should now be extended to a raft of other social and economic issues that need attention, and around which a non-partisan consensus needs to be fostered. The people do have power, and once stripped of political animus and stratagem, the masses may very well find that informed, decisive and prudent agitation will deliver results that are far reaching and meaningful.

Wat Ching

wat.ching@yahoo.com

Real people power at work

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Dear Editor,

There has been a lot of talk about EWI and their ability to perform not only with a bond but with financing and the supply of LNG.

As they have not met the criteria set out originally it is felt that the number three bidder, Energize Jamaica Limited, should be considered. Their bid which came out at less than US19 cents and not US 21cents was based on the requirement for quotation stipulating dual fuel and they made the offer accordingly with LNG as primary fuel and HFO as backup.

It is noted that EWI quoted only on LNG. In this regard, it is felt that Energize Jamaica Ltd should be asked to do the same. It is understood that Energize Jamaica Ltd stands ready and they have the following:

1. Full financing available and confirmed by international agencies -- International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB). If required, Wartsila is prepared to make an investment of approximately 19 per cent.

2. They can put up a full bond both for the bid and/or for performance in short order, as required.

3. They have a supply of LNG from a most reputable petroleum company, guaranteed for 20 years.

4. They have a guarantee for financing, not only in the supply but in the establishment of the LNG infrastructure.

5. They are using the Wartsila systems and it is known that Wartsila is reliable and have a good track record, not only in Jamaica, ie two (2) barges -- Doctor Bird I and II and the 66MW plant but also in the Caribbean and the world.

6. The consortium of investors is competent in their fields, ie, Musson Jamaica Ltd, a diversified logistics partner and manufacturer in 33 countries worldwide; Tank-Weld, industrial infrastructure and pipelines; Seaboard International, experts in the oil and gas, marine and industrial infrastructure sectors; Wartsila, expert in generator manufacturer with over 4,000 Wartsila engines installed since 1992.

7. The project can be completed in 24 months.

8. They have a cadre of experienced local construction companies, who were involved in the 66MW plant and are ready to break ground with this project.

9. With a bidder having the above qualification and reputation, it should be prudent to call them in for discussions and negotiations.

10. Energize Jamaica Ltd has presented bids on three occasions for this project. They were the number one bidder the first two times and, on the third, they have been put in third place with the number one and two bidders either failed to perform or has a reputation that is suspect.

Energy enthusiast

What about bidder #3?

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Dear Editor,

I wish to publicly commend Contractor General Dirk Harrison for the bold and unequivocal position he has taken in resisting the attempt by embattled energy minister, Phillip Paulwell, to compromise the integrity of the Office of the Contractor General (OCG) by asking him to make contact with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and, in effect, alter his opinion that the minister acted inappropriately by meddling in the bidding process for the construction of the 381MW energy plant.

In a desperate attempt to salvage the sordid EWI affair following the IDB's withdrawal from the process due to procedural flaws which are inconsistent with IDB procurement procedures, Minister Paulwell, based on public disclosure by the contractor general who was speaking at a lay magistrates' awards function in Clarendon this past Saturday, inappropriately and ill-advisedly attempted to bring influence to bear on the contractor general.

Harrison is deserving of public commendation and our unwavering support for his principled and decisive stance. In preserving national integrity and advancing the campaign for good governance in this country, all well-thinking Jamaicans should join in decrying the actions of Minister Paulwell.

This is especially important as we are living in a society where allegations of corruption are pervasive, and public cynicism, particularly against the nation's political leaders, is rampant.We must begin to send the right signals and, in so doing, demonstrate that corruption has no place in our society if we are to develop and prosper.

As Opposition spokesman, I have issued a statement decrying the minister's poor judgement and knack for over-reaching in relation to the expedient manner in which he acted by reversing the Government's Aggregate Spectrum Cap Policy of 2013, ostensibly as payback for advance payments for licences by the telecoms providers in helping the Government meet its primary surplus target for the fiscal year just ended. I find it quite shocking and most disturbing that within a mere 24 hours of issuing that statement, another egregious and reprehensible manifestation of over-reaching on the part of Minister Paulwell has surfaced.

He has an abiding penchant for expediency, and the Jamaican people should no longer entertain claims of youthful exuberance as an excuse for his errant conduct. Enterprise Jamaica, which is at this time grappling with high indebtedness and low levels of growth, simply cannot afford Phillip Paulwell. His ministerial bungling across different PNP administrations over the years have been costing us too much as a country; both in terms of our reputation and public finances.

It is indeed regrettable that the leadership of the People's National Party (PNP), in a display of contempt for decent, law-abiding, and patriotic Jamaicans, has come out expressing support for the embattled energy minister. The PNP must indicate whether it has the interest of the nation at heart.

Dr Andrew Wheatley, MP

Opposition Spokesman on ICTs, Digital Society Development and the Environment.

Jamaica cannot afford Paulwell's 'exuberance'

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Dear Editor,

I wish to support Dr Dayton Campbell's call for the review of harmful sections in our law that inhibits females gaining access to all and not selective comprehensive reproductive health services. There are too many botched abortions and other harmful and potentially life-threatening activities such as scraping of the womb with unclean medical tools happening underground. All these services should be done in a formal and safe environment at all times.

I advocate for prevention, but in a context where the effective delivery of comprehensive sex and sexuality education, as well as the access for reproductive health commodities/services for young people such as contraceptive pills, femidoms and male condoms, has in several areas prevailing gaps, we must act now in a realistic and not idealistic manner.

While I appreciate the position of some religious groups, they simply do not live and cannot live people's lives. It is not the world view that should supersede, it is the realities on the ground that confront real people every day of their lives.

We need a balanced conversation and the chief voice cannot be religion. It has to be those who are affected directly and indirectly. All of these issues affect us nationally and our ability to meet some of our Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), such as achieving the best maternal health outcomes. The care and support of our people is paramount. Action is needed from balanced and informed research to meet the needs of all our people. We also need more medical professionals to be as open and as frank as Dr

Dayton Campbell.

Javan Campbell

Advocacy and Intervention Officer

Jamaica Youth Advocacy Network

javan.campbell2012@gmail.com

The time for pro-choice is at hand

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Dear Editor,

The greatest measure of good governance is how a government treats its people. It is truly saddening that the Government of Jamaica has even pondered the idea of selling Goat Islands to the Chinese to destroy a covenant they made with their own people. How disgraceful to even entertain the idea!

Who in Parliament is speaking for us? How are we as a people supposed to trust them after this? Portia, it is just not right to sell a piece of our country. It is ours; it is for the Jamaican people. Who gives you the permission to do that?

We need to understand that once the environment is gone, that is it, it's gone. How dare you destroy the very thing that sustains us? Why kill so many ecosystems and jobs when there are other suitable areas that have been identified for the contemplated project? If the Portland Bight area is protected, then any party that seeks to interfere with the ecosystem should face criminal prosecution.

Who will bring charges against this Government for breaking this law?

When approached about using the Goat Islands, the Chinese should have got a resounding "no", but apparently the Chinese money and needs are more important to the Government than the voices, pleas and welfare of its people and environment. What else will they sell? Blue Mountains? Cockpit Country? An entire parish? Us?

We need to support the Jamaica Environment Trust and its initiative to stop this development. At the end of the day, it is us that have to live here, it is our children that will have to live here. We need to start protecting and preserving our environment. Mama P, please leave our Goat Islands alone.

Nicolette Bryan

bryan.nicolette@gmail.com

#savegoatislands

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Dear Editor,

I am heartened by Maurice Haughton's article in your edition of the 29/4/14, especially in reference to the 2002 case against the Queen of England, etc. In that matter, I was one of the claimants and the attorney.

I will state a few facts which are not well known:

Firstly, my brother and friend, Bert Samuels, assisted greatly in the preparation and arguing of the matter, especially on those occasions when I was abroad.

Secondly, it took great courage on Bert's part, upon my request, to ask the learned judge if he was a member of a lodge, to which he replied in the negative. The reason for this is obvious.

Thirdly, the matter went before several judges who, sensing history, did not want to rule against black Jamaicans and so found reasons to pass over the matter.

Fourthly, on one occasion when the matter was put off, I said to Solicitor General Michael Hylton: "The ancestors have spoken." On another occasion, when an over-exuberant judge started to rule against us even before hearing arguments, and thus had to recuse himself, Hylton said to me: "The ancestors have spoken."

Fifthly, on one occasion, before Justice Anderson, the solicitor general, in an effort to speed up the process, said to the judge: "This case is having an adverse effect on the relationship between England and Jamaica." One can imagine how proud I felt, that this little black bwoy from the ghettos of Gem Road and Lincoln Avenue could carry out actions, that "bex" The Queen and the Government of England. Do they know how many times they vex me, when I read and hear the atrocities, tortures and murders carried out against my ancestors? Their vexation reminds me of how "bex" the Americans and their grand masters were when my little daughter Makeda Lorne, at age seven, playing in the under-10 category of a world chess tournament in Puerto Rico, defeated the American champion, who was 10 years old, in seven moves. Just imagine how vexed they were to be beaten by this black, dreadlocked, little pickney, from the black hills of Jamaica.

Eventualy, Justice Marsh, in pain, ruled: "The rights which Messrs Lorne, Holmes and Latty identified on the face of the summons are the rights of those persons who were enslaved and consequently the applicants would not have locus standi to ask for the declarations which are being sought." I did not appeal the matter, but instead sent copies of the judgement to pan-Africanists all over the world so that future reparations cases would not give them the excuse to say we are not Africans. Wherever we are, we can now trace our roots by DNA to the villages from whence we came.

One of the ironies of this case, is that the solicitor general and his team of lawyers were paid by taxpayers of this country, descendants of slaves, to defend The Queen of England against black Jamaicans who were seeking justice.

I thank the creator for making me an African. The journey continues.

Ras Miguel Lorne

Kingston

'The ancestors have spoken'

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Dear Editor,

I am a little taken aback by the responses of members of Parliament Fenton Ferguson, Richard Azan and Dayton Campbell in relation to the claims made by the Opposition that their constituents have threatened suicide as a result of the difficult economic times being faced by them.

Perhaps these sitting MPs, who claim they have never had the experience, must be living in another Jamaica.

I am not a member of parliament, but at one point I was forced to write a letter to the editor in response to a rather emotional story told to me by a young graduate who had studied at a tertiary institution for four years, obtained a degree, and was unable to get a job for over three years.

He told the story of how he would get up each day and send out resumes all over to get a job, but would get the same response: 'No vacancies at this time.' At times not even a response.

Coupled with that he was saddled with a student loan that had escalated to a point where even if fortune would smile upon him and he did get a job, repayment of this debt would take him almost his entire life.

I recall him telling me the only way he could rid himself of the utter despair he felt was to end his life.

I am not surprised by the responses of these Government MPs, however.

Clearly the problems of the people are never their priority, their priority is to use the people and keep them downtrodden so that they can exercise the control over them to gain victory at the polls.

The upliftment of the people was never their goal, so long as they can extract every dollar from every corner in taxes to meet their glorified lifestyles, drive their fancy cars and hand out the scarce benefits to the faithful, they have no other option.

Perhaps they have never heard these stories because they have no interest in the people of this country.

I believe leadership is meant to uplift a people, not to place them in positions of hardships and desperation in order to secure control over them.

I would like to remind the Government that the resources of the State belongs to the State. The taxes of the people are to be used for the benefit of the entire country.

Please, I am asking the leader of the nation to request her MPs to cease and desist from "claiming" that they give X or Y to the people. Only when it comes from their earnings and from personal wealth obtained outside to politics can they claim the "giving of gifts" to the people. Outside of that, all resources in the form of taxes, levies, State lands and assets belong to Jamaica and Jamaicans.

We have allowed politicians to use the taxes and assets of the country as if it belonged to them. The greatest sin of all, however, is that we the people have allowed them to reduce us to the point where our dignity is lost and our country plunged to the bottom of the pile.

This PNP Administration must remember the words of Norman Manley: "I abominate fraud in all its disguises and forms, no matter how it may dress itself up or don an air of innocence to conceal the nasty thing that is below". Perhaps the Government of the day needs to re-examine the true spirit of its founding father to guide their steps.

F E Jacobs

St Andrew

Politicians have taken us to desperation

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Dear Editor,

It is my view that, given the economic challenges and difficulties facing many families and the relatively high level of individual poverty, it would be a good idea if the Government — working in consultation and in cooperation with organisations such as the Food For The Poor, Adventist Aid and the equivalent outreach arms of the Church of God and the Church of Christ — takes steps to open "$50.00 soup and porridge restaurants" in the major urban centres, such as downtown Kingston, Three Miles, Old Harbour, Spanish Town, Linstead, May Pen, among others.

These soup and porridge restaurants would, firstly, reduce and/or prevent hunger and malnutrition and secondly, preserve the dignity of the individual, preserve his/her belief in self, and separate the person from those we call street people because they can still afford to provide for themselves.

These are very important factors which have to be taken into consideration if the individual is not to give up hope that his or her condition can change, in preventing severe depression, violence and antisocial conduct.

I also believe that mothers with children and/or pregnant women could be asked to pay a price of $25.00 per meal. This approach would complement the existing school-feeding programme, and would reduce the pressure or temptation on women to carry out back-door abortions.

Such a programme would not be cheap, and the State would be faced with a daunting uphill task should it try to carry it out alone. However, with the help and assistance of the organisations named above,t becomes doable and can be financed.

The Government of Jamaica is the owner of many unused structures and premises across downtown and other urban centres that could be repaired as suitable locations. The employment of the Jamaica Defence Force engineering and construction units would greatly reduce the cost of putting up such structures.

Let's consider it.

Basil Fletcher

Municipality of Portmore

BasilAksumite@hotmail.com

Gov't should start $50 soup/porridge stands

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Dear Editor,

Many may not realise it, but those who argue for reparations are fighting a losing battle. European officials have made it quite clear that there is no intention to compensate the descendants of slaves.

In a recent interview with Dutch reporters, noted academic Gert Oostindie stated that, "Europe is going to entertain the dialogue but they will not pay." His sentiments are not different from the British minister with responsibility for Caribbean, who made the following pronouncement: "Do I think that we are in a position where we can financially offer compensation for events that happended two, three hundred years ago? No I don't, and I think we've got to focus on where our commonalities agree and I think that is eradicating slavery as it exists today, also building on the importance of driving the economy and economic development and economic growth."

Another major problem with reparations is that we really don't know who are the decendants. For example, research is being conducted to ascertain the role played by Swiss and Russian slavers in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. But the mere fact that a few private individuals supported slavery does not allow one to sue any of these states.

Emotive positions on reparations are irrelevant, slavery was a legal institution in the Caribbean and essentially a private business. Some argue that it is only fair to compensate the descendants of slaves since groups like the Mau-Mau and Japanese-Canadians have received settlements for past atrocities, but in both instances it was the State that enforced heinous crimes.

Proponents of reparations are saying that, although slavery was a private matter, the State condoned it, therefore their quest for compensation is quite reasonable. But the retrospective application of criminal law makes no sense. Slavery was not unique to blacks, nor was the horror meted out to slaves, for example slaves in ancient Rome were often torn to pieces by savage animals in order to appease their masters and for hundreds of years the Vikings enslaved the Slavs in Eastern Europe. Present day descendants of these groups will not ask for reparations because it is too absurd.

It is hypocritical to demand reparations from Europe when the African kingdoms of Oyo and Abomey benefited significantly from the slave trade. According to one commentator in a recent piece: "While Europe invested profits from the trade in laying the foundation of a powerful economic empire, African kings and traders were content with wearing used caps and admiring themselves in worthless mirrors while swigging adulterated brandy bought with the freedom of their kinsmen." So maybe it is fair to say that blacks have always preferred pomp and pageantry over actual work.

Even if we receive reparations, the Maroons are not entitled to any compensation because the British already provided them with the Cockpit Country and their ancestors were not enslaved by Britain.

Lipton Matthews

lo_matthews@yahoo.com

Reparation is an absurd notion; we should forget about it

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Dear Editor,

While it seems that everybody is calling for Minister Phillip Paulwell to go, I think those calls are unfair. Not only do I think that Paulwell should stay in his job, I actually think that we need more ministers like him.

As we were being told, the Energy World International (EWI) option would have used Liquefied Natural Gas to produce electricity at less than 13 US cents per kilowatt hour. This project would produce electricity using processes that would have been much more environmentally friendly and greatly reduce the cost of electricity. Who can blame the minister for doing all he could to get this deal for us?

I am glad that the prime minister has ignored the wannabe prime ministers who are demanding that she fire the minister. Who elected them anyway? As for the JLP, it has no real prospect of ever being returned to power in the foreseeable future, so ignoring its calls was natural.

There is one thing about Paulwell that stands out -- his sense of urgency to move the country forward. It is true that he has made some mistakes in this business. However, that is no reason to fire him. His determination to take a hands-on approach in order to get things going should be commended and not condemned.

His recent efforts to get Jamaica into the rare earths business, a scheme that could see Jamaica becoming the centre for very advanced communications industries are indicative of a man who is thinking outside the box. This characteristic of Paulwell is very rare in Jamaican politics today. It's a pity more of our leaders don't have this trait.

I think Paulwell knows that all of us must now learn from this episode and move on. Those of us who were calling for him to go should realise that no one is perfect. It would be a pity if politicians like him are discouraged from public service. We surely need leaders with the zeal like him around.

Michael A Dingwall

michael_a_dingwall@hotmail.com

We need more ministers like Paulwell

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Dear Editor,

Recently, I was driving along Industrial Terrace in Kingston. As I approached the vicinity of Tivoli Gardens High School I saw a police patrol vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. Obviously, I would have seen police patrol vehicles before; however, what struck me as the police vehicle passed was my inability to see the driver. The inability to see the driver had nothing to do with my vision. Instead it was brought on the accessories that were added to the vehicle. The windscreen of the police vehicle seemingly had a double tint. Both the top and the bottom of the windscreen had on midnight tints. As a result, it rendered it impossible for anyone to see through or in the vehicle. This was disturbing on many accounts.

As citizens of this country we need to be in a position, at all times, to clearly identify our police officers, whether they are driving or not. Our high crime rate calls for nothing less. This incident raises a number of questions, among them: What is the position of the Police High Command regarding the tinting of police vehicles in general? What do the traffic regulations say regarding the double-tinting of windscreens of vehicles in general?

I have noticed that double-tinting is fast becoming the norm for a significant number of private vehicles. While I understand and appreciate that some level of tinting maybe necessary due to the piercing glare of the sun, it is most unacceptable for police vehicles to have tinting to the extent to which the average citizen is unable to clearly identify who is driving or whether or not there are passengers on board.

As Jamaicans, we need to work together to usher in a new culture to curb the tide of unacceptable behaviours and practices which is threatening our very existence. We need to know the official policy regarding the tinting of police vehicles. This is certainly not too much to ask of the authorities.

Wayne Campbell

waykam@yahoo.com

www.wayaine.blogspot.com

Why are the police hiding behind midnight tints?

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Dear Editor,

Can you believe it? Sunday, the 11th of May will be another Mother's Day. Time is really flying. But I am glad to know, that, out of the 365-days, a special one is made available for the celebration of all the good, not so good, or not so faithful mothers. But, mothers truly deserve special recognition; because, to bring up children into the world, it cost them a lot, plus, their bodies were rocked with great labour pains.

Some of us may not have material gifts to shower on our mothers, but giving them a warm hug, or a strong embrace, and telling them that we love them, can be like a great gift and comfort to them.

However, we deeply regret the passing, or the cruel, untimely deaths of some of the mothers in this country; and we lament the fact, that they are no longer with us. We also remember those who are sad and depressed, because they have lost their mothers.

I am therefore sending my love and respect, to all the mothers in Jamaica, and also to those who are away, in foreign lands. And I say to them, especially those who are playing a father's role, to stay strong, and keep hope alive.

Finally, the children should now, if they can, take the opportunity in preparing the tradition Jamaican dish of the real rice and peas and chicken, with the strong, original coconut milk, and some nice, body-building juice for their mothers.

Thank you very much.

Donald McKoy

Dear Editor,

I recently looked at my five-year-old son and had a horrifying epiphany ran across my mind as I imagined Jamaica, land we love, 30 years into the future. Feelings of gloom and hopelessness overtook me. I sat there, head in hand, and literally thought the worst as a million questions raced through my mind. Questions like, what will the rate of exchange for the Jamaican dollar be 30 years from now? Will the country, by then, have successfully put an end to the crime epidemic? Will Jamaica, by then, be a haven of economic prosperity with countless job opportunities for its citizens? Will our energy woes be a thing of the past? And, by then, what would become of our already endangered environment? Yes, all good questions.

As the possible scenarios unravelled in my mind, I couldn't help but wonder if our trusted Government, charged with the mammoth task of leading us into an economically viable future, has pondered the same questions I did. Do they sincerely care where our country might be headed or do they see the positions afforded them by us trusting voters as a mundane 9-5 routine? Do they take solace in their dual citizenship, knowing pretty well that they can abandon ship for greener pastures just in case things take a turn for the worse? If so, what then of those of us who can't swim or have nowhere to swim to? God help us.

Our leaders then need to envisage the future of our country in the negative light that I did and ensure that they do not fail the Jamaican people. At present, our nation is in a crisis. A crisis that requires selfless unity from the leaders on both sides of the political divide if we are to repel the ills that threaten our country's present and future.

Indeed, our children are the future; we need to ensure a viable Jamaica for ourselves and them. And yes, many Jamaicans share the common sentiment that the horse has already gone through the gate and we're all just along for the ride. The onus is then placed squarely on our leaders to revive and rejuvenate the hopes of those of us who have given up the dream of the possibility of a better Jamaica.

There is a saying that goes "hope for the best, but prepare for the worst". While this is true, let's hope for the best as a nation, and work toward the best so that our children, the men and women of Jamaica 30 years from now, our future generation, can indeed inherit the best.

Michael McCallum

xandermac95@yahoo.com

Jamaica, 30 years from now

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Dear Editor,

Jamaica has been able to produce world-beating athletes over the years. But in the field of politics there exists a dearth of talented and experienced leaders. We constantly have to be recycling people over and over.

If this were Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar would have fired Phillip Paulwell regardless of party loyalty. Luckily, for politicians, this is Jamaica, and there exists a shortage of talented and experienced leaders. This would explain our need to resurrect Velma Hylton and now Dr Vin Lawrence.

If we have to reach so far back in history in order to retrieve experienced talent, then it means that we are not cultivating any. When these individuals were heading all these boards and negotiating multimillion-dollar deals, who understudied them? Whom did they prepare? Where is the succession planning we often hear about?

Mrs Simpson Miller often tells us that when she is ready to demit office she will hand the baton to someone representing the next generation. But who is being groomed for such a role: Dr Peter Phillips? Lisa Hanna? Phillip Paulwell? It seems that the next generation of leaders is unprepared and inexperienced, which means that the future is more uncertain.

Dr Peter Phillips is correct in his assertion that, "anyweh yuh tun macka gwine jook yuh". We have removed Mr Paulwell and here comes Dr Lawrence. Dr Omar Davies has also resurrected Mr Latibeaudiere.

We have young, talented members of parliament, some even as junior ministers, but every time something challenging comes along we revert to those 'oldies but goodies'.

While we are at it, crime is again on an upsurge in West Kingston. Let us resurrect Reneto Adams, and maybe we can convince the United States Government to return Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.

Mark Clarke

Siloah PO, St Elizabeth

mark_clarke9@yahoo.com

We keep recycling 'oldies'

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Dear Editor,

I am forced to write to you as a matter of principle with a view of setting the record straight based on your editorial (May 7, 2014) in which you quoted that you have written in the past recommending the merger of the JCF and the ISCF, and that you are now happy to see it come to pass. You admit, though, that from all indications it seems as if they were not fully prepared for it as uniforms and other things seem to not be readily available for a smooth transition.

The fact is, yes, a number of reports have been done in the past recommending the merger, but not all of them recommended this route. In fact, at least three of the reports state that ISCF is a useful organisation and that the force should be reorganised and the ISCF of given specific functions to relieve the JCF certain functions so they can fight serious crimes. The Government of P J Patterson made some changes on November 17, 1997.

Specials were mandated to serve judges, security of foreign missions and homes and government buildings; serving summonses and any court-related documents. When this Cabinet decision was put into effect in 2002, the ambits were broadened to include agriculture and environmental patrol, anti-vending, and games warden duties during bird season. A document was later sent to the commandant of the ISCF from the Ministry of National Security (#17) dated April 23, 2007 setting out the operating guidelines of both the JCF and the ISCF to avoid conflict.

What I can say is that the special did well, the training was first-class, and attracted several bright men and women with degrees. This, to me, became the envy of the JCF. This resulted in the 'abandonment' of the ISCF.

I must remind everyone that more than once the members of the JCF staged industrial action and had it not been for the specials Jamaica would be left without police for a while. What is the country's contingency plan now?

My recommendation: leave the forces as they were. Let them each do their respective jobs.

Ardent Reader

Jamaica

Jealousy led to the end of the ISCF

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Dear Editor,

Am I to believe that the Jamaican justice system is changing? Am I to believe that every citizen of this beautiful island must now know that the law is not selective, and if you do the crime you must do the time? If that is the case then I am shouting for joy!

Who knew that times like these would come? I am extremely happy that the justice system is proving to be impartial. I do believe that this culture of "bly" that is prevalent in our society must be abolished. I believe things work out better and easier when we all follow the correct procedures.

The latest case of James Forbes, former head of the Jamaica Constabulary Force's Community Safety and Security, is indeed a sad one. It is quite unfortunate that back in the 90s Forbes was seen as a prime example of what the JCF should be and today and now he is looking to be locked behind bars on corruption charges. Sad, sad, sad.

The latest case of James Forbes, former head of the Jamaica Constabulary Force's Community Safety and Security, is indeed a sad one. It is quite unfortunate that back in the 90s Forbes was seen as a prime example of what the JCF should be and today and now he is looking to be locked behind bars on corruption charges. Sad, sad, sad.

It must be hard on him knowing that he was trying to help a man who is free and he will be locked away. It must be hard for Forbes to look back at his decision. The issue could have been thrown away easily had Mr Bicknell paid his $2,000 fine. But no; he decided to deal with the issue his own way and now look at the end result.

Looking back, the Vybz Kartel case is no different. He is now locked away for a very long time over two missing "shoes". Now what we have are two talented and outstanding individuals whose careers have just gone down the drain. What a waste!

Well, in spite of the sadness, life goes on. I really hope the Jamaican justice system keeps proving that no matter who you are, if you are wrong, then you must face the consequences. I hope these two cases are a wake-up call for every citizen of this country, regardless of who you are. I'm hoping that one day the corrupt politicians and police officers will all be locked away, too.

Keon Walker

keyon87@yahoo.com

Are we now seeing an impartial justice system?

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Dear Editor,

A word in response to all those who have been suggesting that we must be competitive to prosper.

I respectfully submit that our objective to contribute to our prosperity must be to enjoy at least monopolistic competition, that is, monopoly in a state of competition — commonly called the competitive edge.

It is not possible for us to compete with, for example, the United States — one of our principal trading partners in most areas. But Brand Jamaica has so much to offer and this can be buttressed by our creative thinking towards our competitive edge.

And as far as being economically defensible is concerned, we can produce the things we can and not import them — eat not only what we grow, but use what we manufacture, and export mainly through tourism and educated Jamaicans to earn us foreign exchange.

Finally, encourage investment and advice.

We can use successful entrepreneurs and technocrats from anywhere to build our programme. These are some open secrets to the wealth of nations.

Owen S Crosbie

Mandeville, Manchester

oss@cwjamaica.com

Dear Editor,

Now that the prime minister has been forced by circumstances to assume leadership of the 381MW project, on behalf of all Jamaicans suffering under high energy prices I would like to challenge her to show her true mettle.

It may be too much to ask, though, for our prime minister to ignore the raw political advantages to be had from a project of this size, or the large feeding trough that a US$700-M powerplant development will mean for party associates, activists and cronies.

The prime minister must, however, be concerned at this stage in her political career about her legacy to Jamaica. There is hardly a better gift that she could leave poor Jamaicans who voted for her overwhelmingly than cheaper electricity which can get the economy growing and create jobs.

To do that the PM must rescue the project and, along with the private sector, convince Jamaicans and restore international confidence in our ability to handle procurement of this magnitude and complexity. Surely potential investors in the logistics hub and our other grand ventures are looking on.

Apart from getting the power plant finally going, the PM must safeguard the selection process from even the scent of corruption, favouritism or cronyism. For that the PM must give serious consideration to the character, expertise, independence, and integrity of the enterprise team to be selected to join Dr Vin Lawrence.

Madam Prime Minister, please seek out Jamaicans who have the proven expertise the team will need. Ensure they are above the fray and have no interest in the outcome beyond seeing Jamaica move forward. If I may dare to suggest, there are several quite outstanding Jamaicans that fit the bill. Four that I can readily think who could be valuable to this project are:

1. Douglas Orane: The retired CEO of GraceKennedy whose business track record and public sector service is well known.

2. Winston Hay: The former director general of the OUR and renowned power engineer with the World Bank, where he evaluated projects like this one before returning home to start the OUR. He would also bring regulatory and power plant knowledge to the team.

3. Ian Blair: The former senior vice-president of the Port Authority who was in charge of the infrastructure buildout under the port expansion. He would be able to make sense of schedules and logistics in the proposals put forward.

4. Bill Clarke: The former managing director of Scotiabank would add financial depth to the team.

Resist the friendly names and faces and whispered recommendations of vested interest. Be enterprising, Madam PM, in selecting your enterprise team...for your legacy and for

Jamaica's sake.

Sean Walker

Kingston 5

lovejabad@gmail.com

PM, think hard about that enterprise team

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