THE EDITOR, Sir:
IN THE past week, there has been much debate on the poor state of the Jamaican economy. Many a person has called for the resignation of Minister Davies and Mr. Latibeaudiere, as they seem to be pursuing policies that are counter-productive. And even the layman believes that he could do better.
I believe that the government has tried and has failed. They need to try again. I give a few recommendations:
The legalisation of casino gambling. Is it considered better morals to have people in a country suffer when something can be done about it? The principle of the "Lesser of Two Evils" disagrees.
The introduction of a system of progressive taxation. We should seek to relieve the poorer citizens from some of the taxes they pay by passing them on to those who are more capable of paying. This is what is meant by a fair system of taxation.
The renegotiation of rates on outstanding loans. Much more than half of our budget goes to service debt. If we can reduce rates then we will have more money to spend to increase the productive capacity of our nation.
The lowering of interest rates to favour local production. High interest rates in the Jamaican economy have rendered many Jamaican businesses insolvent. However, low interest rate should only be had for local production.
I am, etc.,
PHILIP DILLON
kingdelano@yahoo.com
164 Whitehouse
Ewarton, St Catherine
Via Go-Jamaica
