Put CCJ vote to the people at next election

I read with interest the views of Grant Shapps, the British minister with responsibility for the Caribbean, regarding the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), replacing the Privy Council, and Jamaica becoming a republic.

It is no surprise that the British Government has taken a hands-off view on both issues and has wisely suggested that it is for the Jamaican people to decide.

It would appear that both of our parties have firmly entrenched views. The fact that the Lower House of Parliament has passed the Bills because of the Government's majority, but cannot do so in the Senate, means that the CCJ issue will linger in uncertainty until the people decide by way of an referendum.

It is no secret that the Government may call an early general election, which provides an opportunity for the issue of the CCJ to be included on the ballot, responding to this issue with a simple answer of 'yes' or 'no'.

I don't think, however, there is enough time to prepare the legislation and debate the issue of Jamaica becoming a republic. This is a major step and should not be hurriedly crafted. However, the issue of the CCJ has been well aired.

So, let the people decide as part of the balloting process of the next general election.

Winston Dear

Montego Bay, St James

winstondear@gmail.com

Put CCJ vote to the people at next election

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