Dear Editor,
I write in response to Marsha Thomas's comments in the Daily Observer in a letter to the editor, 'Remove youth portfolio from Hanna'. Quite frankly, I'm getting tired of these irrational outbursts. Those chastising Hanna about the abortion comments probably didn't even watch the full interview where she was asked a number of questions related to her portfolio, to which she responded intelligently, unscripted, with great depth, clarity, and passion. She effortlessly quoted facts and figures and spoke from the heart.
On abortion, when asked how she would further debate this controversial topic, she did not announce any government policy or plan. She responded as a woman and a politician, and she does have the right to her opinion. She reinforced the point that she would love to see Jamaicans begin to debate issues without the usual emotions and Bible verses, which have become the norm. We know abortion is widely practised in this country, often without counselling, proper procedures, standards and guidelines, which put many women at great risk. Legislation would not encourage mass abortions, but rather provide greater protection and security for women. The National Family Planning Board was also quick to rally support for the minister and her comments.
I do believe Hanna is handling the multitude of challenges within her portfolio responsibly. I admire the work she is doing; there is no portfolio in Jamaican Government that is easy, especially with the lack of adequate resources. I have been following online, where she has a very strong presence. She uses social media effectively to inform, communicate, and educate, and there is no denying her passion and love for Jamaica. Hanna's contribution on youth and culture in this year's Sectoral Debate was also outstanding. Jamaica would benefit greatly if there were more politicians like Hanna on both sides of the fence.
The onslaught of criticisms levelled against the minister since she assumed office is often scathing and unreasonable. I realised long ago her strongest critics are mostly other women, who may well be insecure about her commanding presence, intellect, and outstanding beauty. We hope Miss Hanna, and others like her, will grow a thick skin and not give up too easily due to frustration. I strongly believe Minister Hanna may some day in the near future become prime minister. Love her or hate her, she is always in the news, making news. Everyone expects the minister to single-handedly solve all the nation's problems concerning youth, without realising there is a collective responsibility and every Jamaican is responsible.
And what solutions have the critics of Minister Hanna offered? None!
P Chin
chin_p@yahoo.com
You're insecure! Leave Minister Hanna alone!
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I write in response to Marsha Thomas's comments in the Daily Observer in a letter to the editor, 'Remove youth portfolio from Hanna'. Quite frankly, I'm getting tired of these irrational outbursts. Those chastising Hanna about the abortion comments probably didn't even watch the full interview where she was asked a number of questions related to her portfolio, to which she responded intelligently, unscripted, with great depth, clarity, and passion. She effortlessly quoted facts and figures and spoke from the heart.
On abortion, when asked how she would further debate this controversial topic, she did not announce any government policy or plan. She responded as a woman and a politician, and she does have the right to her opinion. She reinforced the point that she would love to see Jamaicans begin to debate issues without the usual emotions and Bible verses, which have become the norm. We know abortion is widely practised in this country, often without counselling, proper procedures, standards and guidelines, which put many women at great risk. Legislation would not encourage mass abortions, but rather provide greater protection and security for women. The National Family Planning Board was also quick to rally support for the minister and her comments.
I do believe Hanna is handling the multitude of challenges within her portfolio responsibly. I admire the work she is doing; there is no portfolio in Jamaican Government that is easy, especially with the lack of adequate resources. I have been following online, where she has a very strong presence. She uses social media effectively to inform, communicate, and educate, and there is no denying her passion and love for Jamaica. Hanna's contribution on youth and culture in this year's Sectoral Debate was also outstanding. Jamaica would benefit greatly if there were more politicians like Hanna on both sides of the fence.
The onslaught of criticisms levelled against the minister since she assumed office is often scathing and unreasonable. I realised long ago her strongest critics are mostly other women, who may well be insecure about her commanding presence, intellect, and outstanding beauty. We hope Miss Hanna, and others like her, will grow a thick skin and not give up too easily due to frustration. I strongly believe Minister Hanna may some day in the near future become prime minister. Love her or hate her, she is always in the news, making news. Everyone expects the minister to single-handedly solve all the nation's problems concerning youth, without realising there is a collective responsibility and every Jamaican is responsible.
And what solutions have the critics of Minister Hanna offered? None!
P Chin
chin_p@yahoo.com
You're insecure! Leave Minister Hanna alone!
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