THE EDITOR, Sir:
RECENT CALLS for Jamaicans to brace themselves for significant increases in JPSCo bills and other fuel prices have left some pensioners reeling with consternation at the prospect of darkness and powerlessness. Will there be a recall of the Tilly lamp, the Home Sweet Home and the coal stove? Will it be a matter of no more television? After all, "Dem didn't born cum see TV an' who tell dem 'bout computer?
Has anybody compared the cost of living today with what prevailed ten, twelve or fifteen years ago? It is a fact that some pensions paid at that time have remained at that same level until today.
Pensioners are still expected to pay taxes and some need to have their own means of transportation and be able to enjoy a healthy diet. At this time, thank God and thank the Hon. Minister of Labour and Social Security and Blue Cross for the establishment of a National Health Fund.
Will somebody please examine the administration of pension schemes as they exist, with a view to making them more pensioner-friendly? Pensioners worked hard in their day and laid foundations upon which structures are being built today. They do deserve a better deal.
I am, etc.,
ELSIE SAYLE
21 Hopedale Mews
Kingston
