THE EDITOR, Sir:I WOULD like to air my views on the recent strike by taxi operators.
First of all let me say that I don't endorse the blocking of roads. This is not beneficial to anyone. Sadly it seems to be the only manner via which the public can get the government to react to their grouses.
The country can do well without this bad publicity. We are living in a civil society and we need to resolve our problems differently. If the Constitution does not allow for it we need to set up agencies or have personnel through which the public's complaints can be properly documented and hence resolved. I am most concerned about the government's willingness to drastically increase licence fees etc.? Neither am I impressed with the easy blocking of roads.
I think the single most significant event is the fact that a bus driver lost his life. Yes we want to air our views but do we have to kill each other in the process. Forget all about tourism and the effect this protest might have on that sector. There are several Jamaicans who were left stranded all over the island. There are many drivers operating in fear of their lives and many trying to do everyday business in fear. Yes the protest may result in fallout in the tourism sector but please spare a thought for the family of the slain driver.
In closing, I want to give my condolence to the family of the slain bus driver Mr. Allen. To the public I want to say we have to find ways of protesting that won't disrupt the entire nation. To the government I want to say you should deliberate and debate on such issues before unleashing them on the public. And the percentage increases are too much. And to the tourism interests while I understand your plight please understand that the people and the interest of the Jamaican people are first and foremost in Jamaica.
I am, etc.,
RAYON STORER
Westmoreland
ramzon744@yahoo.com
