THE EDITOR, Sir:IN TODAY'S competitive media landscape, substance is not a prerequisite for events to make the headlines. In fact in the information jungle in which we live "the scum often rises to the top."
Some of the recent television and radio exposes to which we have been subjected clearly give much credence to this assertion. In the midst of this information overload and the society's seeming inclination to elevate trivia to a position of prominence, many noteworthy and indeed seminal performances go almost unnoticed.
Take for example the performance of Dr. Trevor Munroe and Mr. Douglas Orane in our Senate during the time that they served. They stood out like a beacon of enlightenment and brought a level of reason and logic to the legislature that has not been seen for a long time. Indeed I would like to christen them the "Twin Towers" of our Senate. Not only did they bring to the debates an approach, which depend more on facts than emotions that stirred the mind rather than the heart, but they were also able to blunt the edges of tribal political divide in the Parliament.
It is indeed a tragedy that political expediency will mow rob us of this breath of fresh air that so fleetingly flavoured the conduct of debate in our Parliament and gave a strong push to the spawning of new trend towards more independent thought.
It is even more so a tragedy that their invaluable contribution has passed without notice, obviously overshadowed by more sordid and therefore more alluring events.
I would, however, like to commend both men for their sterling contribution and trust that they will continue to make their considerable intellect and managerial skills available to serve the public interest of Jamaica.
I am, etc.,
LEVI ATKINSON
St. Catherine
