THE EDITOR, Sir:
IT WAS about a decade since local government reform was conceptualised and to date it seems that there is very little or no growth at all.
What was amusing to me was an item in the Gleaner on January 1, 2004, with headline, - local government reform body gets jump-start.
Immediately, I am reminded that sometime ago my car could not self-start due to a run-down battery, so I had to get a jump-start to set the car in motion, but sad to say, the car shut off on the way, and so I had to get another jump-start.
I also recognised in the news item, that a battery of eminent persons was named to form the new council.
But what struck me as I go through the list is that there are no representatives from the farming community, the church, community-based organisations and trade unions.
What I was also hoping to read in this scenario, was the cause for the stagnation, instead, I am hearing about the issuing of warning slip, should there be more indolence in the programme.
What about the educational aspect of this reform? Are the masses fully sensitised? What about the resources, are we adequately equipped?
Based on the definition of reform, and if my memory is intact, I believe that local government had already gone through a phase of reformation.
Therefore, is this relaunching supposed to be phase what?
What do I know is that many taxpayers are finding it extremely difficult to reach some of these politicians and administrative officers.
Let us hope that this new thinking will be fruitful and meaningful in the lives of all.
I am, etc.,
E.N. PERKINS
Justice of the Peace
P.O. Box 415
Mandeville
