THE EDITOR Sir:
THE MINISTER of Agriculture, the Hon. Roger Clarke must tell this nation if he intends to convert Hope Gardens to a commercial/ entertainment district. With the regular holding of staged concerts attracting thousands of patrons the ruination of the delicate environs appears inevitable.
The Minister should indicate if he has given the Curator of the Zoo permission to lease the public facilities for such occasions. Please indicate also whether international lending agencies have written off debts on condition that the government diverts repayment to the development of our green areas. If so, would the lending agencies be satisfied with the decision of a government to lease its only national zoo and only green area in the Corporate Area for staging reggae or rock concerts?
Mr. Minister did you consult with the people of Hope Pastures? Are you aware, Mr. Minister, that there are over 1000 indigenous species of plant and animal life in the Hope Gardens? Mr. Minister, can you assure the public that you can secure against damages to the delicate environs in which both animal and plant life exist? I would be the first in your corner, Mr. Minister, if you spared a tear for this cause.
And what about the many corporate sponsors this show has attracted? How many of these sponsors have contributed to the rebuilding of Hope Gardens. Perhaps the CEO's having profited have the benefit of travelling to zoos overseas.
I have spent many precious moments at Hope Gardens and the Zoo. Notwithstanding the fact that I am a lover of dancehall music, I believe that a rudderless ship will crash. Many have given up on Jamaica. Those of us intending to remain must fight against the gradual erosion of all sense of civility.
I am, etc.,
ARTHUR McKENLEY.
11 Balmoral Avenue,
Kingston
